Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Butter

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup hazelnut butter; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Simple Planning

I am thrilled to share my favorite dessert that seamlessly combines health and indulgence: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Butter. These brownies are incredibly fudgy while packing a protein punch thanks to the cottage cheese. Each bite delivers a rich flavor that's complemented by the nutty hints of hazelnut butter. I love how easy it is to whip them up, and they’re perfect for satisfying my chocolate cravings without the guilt. Let’s dive into this delightful treat that’s both delicious and nutritious!

Created by

Jemima Fox

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:21:35.445Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of using cottage cheese in brownies, I was skeptical but curious. I decided to experiment during a weekend baking spree, and the results were astonishing! The cottage cheese adds moisture and a delightful texture to the brownies without feeling heavy.

After fine-tuning the recipe, I discovered that swirling in hazelnut butter not only elevated the flavor profile but also provided a creamy contrast to the fudginess of the brownies. This small tweak has turned into my signature dessert!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fudgy and rich with a surprise protein boost
The harmony of chocolate and hazelnut flavors
A healthier brownie option that doesn’t compromise on taste

      

Key Ingredients Explained

The star of these brownies is undoubtedly the cottage cheese, which adds moisture and a protein boost. When blended, it creates a silky texture that mimics traditional brownie fudginess without the excess fat. Be sure to use smooth cottage cheese without large curds to avoid graininess in your final product. For an even creamier consistency, you can process the cottage cheese in a blender for a minute before adding other ingredients.

Hazelnut butter introduces not just flavor but also healthy fats, contributing to a rich mouthfeel that complements the cocoa powder. If you can’t find hazelnut butter, almond or cashew butter can be great alternatives, though they’ll yield a slightly different flavor. Just make sure they're natural and unsweetened to maintain the integrity of the recipe.

Technique Tips for Perfect Brownies

To achieve that perfect crackly top, make sure to mix your batter thoroughly but not excessively. Overmixing can lead to denser brownies, which we want to avoid. When blending the ingredients, stop as soon as you achieve a smooth consistency. The brownies will set as they cool, so don’t be alarmed if they feel a bit soft when you first remove them from the oven; they will firm up as they cool down.

Keep an eye on your baking time; every oven behaves differently. While 30 minutes is a good benchmark, check your brownies five minutes early. Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are perfect. Overbaking will lead to dryness, so trust your instincts and adjust accordingly.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Butter:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup hazelnut butter
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For an extra touch, you can add chopped hazelnuts on top before baking!

Instructions

Here’s how to make these delightful brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Blend the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, hazelnut butter, cocoa powder, honey, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.

Pour and Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve.

Enjoy these brownies warm or chilled, perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the batter.

Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be enjoyed as is, but a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the experience to a new level. You can also drizzle some melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for added indulgence. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding chopped hazelnuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor.

For a more festive presentation, try dusting the cooled brownies with powdered sugar or cocoa powder before serving. Pair them with a fruity compote or a fresh fruit salad to balance the chocolate richness. This combination adds a refreshing note that enhances the overall dessert experience.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have extras (or just want to meal prep), these brownies store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Wrap each brownie separately in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, or bring them to room temperature on the counter before serving.

For those who like to meal prep, consider making a double batch and freezing half. This way, you can enjoy fresh brownies anytime without the hassle of making them from scratch. Just remember that freezing may slightly change the texture, making them a tad denser, but they will still be absolutely delicious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the hazelnut butter?

Yes, almond butter or peanut butter can be used as alternatives if you prefer.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just wrap them well and thaw them in the fridge before serving.

→ Are these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure your cocoa powder and any other ingredients are certified gluten-free.