Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa Nibs

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cocoa Nibs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup cocoa nibs

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I’ve always loved brownies, but I wanted to create a version that feels a little lighter yet still indulgent. Using cottage cheese in place of some butter not only cuts down on calories but also adds a fantastic creaminess. The cocoa nibs provide delightful crunch and a rich chocolate profile that elevates these brownies to a whole new level. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between healthiness and decadence, making it an excellent treat for any day of the week.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:07:11.581Z

When I first decided to experiment with cottage cheese in a brownie recipe, I was skeptical about how it would turn out. Would they still taste rich and decadent? To my delight, the brownies came out wonderfully moist and fudge-like while retaining a lightness that I just loved. The key was ensuring I blended the cottage cheese until it was completely smooth, which made all the difference.

Another fun twist was incorporating cocoa nibs. They added a burst of flavor and a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft brownie texture. These brownies have quickly become a favorite at gatherings, and I can’t wait for you to try them!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Deliciously moist and fudgy texture with a surprise ingredient.
Rich chocolate flavor complemented by the crunch of cocoa nibs.
Guilt-free indulgence with protein from cottage cheese.

      

Mastering the Ingredients

Using cottage cheese in these brownies not only reduces the overall fat content but also infuses them with a creamy richness. Make sure to blend the cottage cheese until it is entirely smooth; this step prevents any lumps in your batter and ensures an even texture. For best results, use full-fat cottage cheese as it contributes more creaminess and flavor than low-fat varieties.

The cocoa nibs in this recipe add depth and a delightful crunch, enhancing the chocolate experience. If you're unable to find cocoa nibs or would like a sweeter flavor profile, dark chocolate chips can be a great substitute; however, remember that they will melt into the batter rather than provide that satisfying crunch.

Baking Tips for Success

Baking is as much about temperature as it is about time. Before pouring your batter into the greased pan, ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it affects how your brownies rise and set. Skipping the preheating can lead to uneven baking and a gummy texture, so give your oven a good 10–15 minutes to reach the right temperature.

When checking for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. It should come out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it — this indicates a fudgy center. If it comes out clean, your brownies might be overbaked, leading to a drier texture. Trust your instincts, and aim for that perfect moment to pull them out!

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cocoa nibs

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until no dry spots remain. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Cocoa Nibs

Gently fold in the cocoa nibs until evenly distributed.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Pro Tips

For extra rich brownies, feel free to add chocolate chips along with the cocoa nibs. If you want a sweeter treat, you can slightly increase the sugars in the recipe.

Storage and Make-Ahead

These cottage cheese brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their freshness to about a week. When refrigerated, be sure to let them sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving for the best texture.

If you're planning to make these brownies in advance for an event, you can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to give it a gentle stir before baking, as chilling can alter the consistency slightly.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies can be enjoyed plain, but a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds an indulgent touch. To elevate the flavors further, consider drizzling a homemade chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top just before serving. This contrast will enhance the rich chocolate flavor and provide additional textures.

For a fun twist, try adding your favorite nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, along with the cocoa nibs for extra crunch and flavor. The nutty undertones can balance the sweetness and creaminess of the brownies, creating a more complex taste experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt as an alternative, but it may change the texture slightly.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can these brownies be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are well wrapped.

→ What can I use instead of cocoa nibs?

You can use chocolate chips or chopped nuts if you prefer a different texture.