Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnuts

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts

Highlighted under: Sweet Oven Stories

I discovered the magic of cottage cheese brownies while experimenting with healthier dessert options. The idea of using cottage cheese in brownies surprised me at first, but it adds a delightful creaminess and protein boost that you can't even taste. The addition of crunchy hazelnuts elevates the flavor and texture, making these brownies a perfect choice for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt. I love how easy these are to whip up, and they satisfy my cravings for chocolate in a more wholesome way.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:40:14.366Z

When I first made these cottage cheese brownies, I was a bit skeptical about using cottage cheese in dessert. I typically thought of it as just a savory ingredient. However, once I baked them and tasted the moist, rich flavor complemented by the nuttiness of hazelnuts, I was sold! These brownies became a staple in my baking repertoire.

The secret is in blending the cottage cheese until smooth, which ensures you won’t even notice it’s there. This allows for a fudgy texture while boosting the protein content, so I can enjoy my chocolate fix without the guilt. Trust me, you’ll be hooked!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy hazelnuts
Creamy texture that keeps you coming back for more
A healthier twist on traditional brownies without compromising taste

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is the star ingredient in these brownies, providing a unique creamy texture that differs from traditional brownie recipes. Its natural moisture reduces the need for excessive fat, while simultaneously enriching the batter with protein. When blended, it becomes silky, which helps achieve that smooth consistent texture you crave in a brownie.

One of the many benefits of using cottage cheese is its ability to incorporate seamlessly into the chocolate flavors without being identifiable. This means you can enjoy a dessert that feels indulgent yet is made with wholesome ingredients. Don't skip the blending step; it's crucial for preventing any curds from affecting the final texture.

Incorporating Hazelnuts

Adding chopped hazelnuts not only contributes a delightful crunch but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the brownies. Their nutty richness pairs exceptionally well with the cocoa, creating a balance that standard brownies often lack. Toasting the hazelnuts before adding them to the batter can intensify their flavor, giving the brownies an extra layer of complexity.

If you’re not a fan of hazelnuts, feel free to substitute them with walnuts or pecans. Both options will add their unique flavors while maintaining the crunchy texture. Just remember to chop them into roughly similar-sized pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the brownie batter.

Ingredients

Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking pan.

Blend cottage cheese

In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.

Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine mixtures

Pour the blended mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the chopped hazelnuts.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan before slicing into squares. Serve and enjoy your healthier chocolate treat!

Pro Tips

For a richer chocolate flavor, consider adding a handful of chocolate chips to the batter. They melt beautifully and take these brownies to the next level.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These cottage cheese brownies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their freshness, they can also be refrigerated for a week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. To keep them moist, consider placing a slice of bread in the container; it helps maintain humidity without affecting the brownies' flavor.

For those who like to plan ahead, you can prepare the batter a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just remember that the baking time may vary slightly if the batter is cold, so keep an eye on the toothpick test for doneness.

Flavor Variations

If you want to mix things up, consider adding different flavor extracts to the batter. A touch of almond or orange extract can add a lovely aroma and depth to the brownies. Just a teaspoon of your chosen extract will suffice, as these flavors can be quite potent.

You can also fold in other mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits, such as cranberries or cherries, to introduce a chewy texture. Just be cautious not to overload the batter, as it may affect the brownies' ability to rise properly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

Yes, you can try using Greek yogurt for a similar texture, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I use another type of nut instead of hazelnuts?

Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans would work wonderfully as substitutes.

→ Are these brownies gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.