Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Butter

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1 cup hazelnut butter; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Smart Kitchen

I’ve always loved the idea of making brownies that are not only delicious but also a bit healthier. These Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Butter have become my go-to recipe for satisfying my sweet tooth without the guilt. The cottage cheese adds a creamy texture, while the hazelnut butter brings a delightful nutty flavor. Each bite is a perfect balance of richness and wholesomeness, making them an indulgence I can feel good about either as a snack or dessert.

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:24:40.956Z

I remember the first time I decided to experiment with cottage cheese in my brownies. I was pleasantly surprised by how moist and flavorful they turned out. The combination of creamy cottage cheese and rich hazelnut butter creates a texture that is both satisfying and unique. Plus, this method makes it easy to sneak in some extra protein without altering the sweet, chocolaty goodness I love.

One of my favorite tips for making these brownies is to let them cool completely before slicing. This not only helps them firm up but also allows the flavors to meld wonderfully. If you want to elevate them even more, consider adding dark chocolate chips or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. Trust me, it makes a difference!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Decadent brownie flavor complemented by creamy cottage cheese
Nutty richness from hazelnut butter that takes these brownies to the next level
A healthier twist on a classic dessert that doesn’t compromise on taste

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is often overlooked in desserts, but in these brownies, it plays a crucial role. Besides adding a creamy texture, it introduces protein and moisture, which keeps the brownies fudgy and rich without excess fat. This ingredient helps balance the sweetness from the honey or maple syrup, ensuring that each bite isn't overly sugary, while also enhancing the nutritional profile of the brownies.

When blending the cottage cheese, make sure to reach a completely smooth consistency; lumpy cottage cheese can lead to uneven texture in your brownies. A high-speed blender or food processor works best for achieving that silkiness. If you're considering substitutions, ricotta cheese could work as an alternative, but it may alter the texture slightly.

Choosing Your Sweetener

The choice between honey and maple syrup can affect not just the flavor but also the texture of your brownies. Honey imparts a deeper, more floral flavor, while maple syrup lends a subtle, earthy sweetness. Both sweeteners keep the brownies moist, but if you use honey, remember it tends to be sweeter than maple syrup, so you might want to adjust the quantity slightly.

If you're avoiding sugars altogether, a suitable alternative like agave syrup or a sugar-free sweetener can be used. Keep in mind that liquid sweeteners can change the density of the batter, so be prepared to adjust baking time if you swap these ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1 cup hazelnut butter
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, hazelnut butter, honey (or maple syrup), eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine the Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. If desired, fold in the dark chocolate chips.

Bake

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares and serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of espresso powder to the batter, which enhances the chocolate taste beautifully.

Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies

To ensure your brownies are perfectly baked, pay attention to the baking time. Start checking them at 25 minutes; they're done when the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Overbaking can lead to dry brownies, so remember that they'll continue to set as they cool.

Using an 8x8 inch baking pan gives you a thick, fudgy brownie. If you prefer thinner brownies, you can use a larger pan, but adjust the baking time accordingly, as they will cook faster. A glass pan can also help you observe the doneness by allowing you to see the edges turning golden brown.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. If you want to make them ahead of time, consider freezing them. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.

For serving, consider pairing these brownies with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of low-fat ice cream. A sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts on top can enhance both the flavor and texture, while fresh berries add a lovely tartness that balances the richness of the brownies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular peanut butter instead of hazelnut butter?

Yes, you can substitute peanut butter for hazelnut butter, but the flavor will be different.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can these brownies be frozen?

Absolutely! You can freeze the brownies for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap them well.

→ What can I use instead of honey?

Maple syrup is a great substitute if you're looking for a vegan option.