Cottage Cheese Brownies with Blueberries

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Blueberries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, smooth; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

Highlighted under: Basic Kitchen

I love whipping up these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Blueberries because they combine indulgence with a healthier twist. The creamy cottage cheese provides a rich moisture without the heaviness typical of traditional brownies. By folding in fresh blueberries, I not only add a burst of flavor but also a touch of sweetness that perfectly contrasts the rich cocoa. These brownies are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth while also delivering some nutritional benefits. Trust me, you'll want to savor every bite!

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:45:34.491Z

When I first experimented with incorporating cottage cheese into my brownie recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome. The texture was surprisingly creamy, and the low-fat content made these brownies guilt-free while still satisfying my chocolate cravings. The secret is blending the cottage cheese until it's smooth to avoid any lumps, ensuring the brownies stay decadent.

Adding blueberries was a serendipitous decision—these berries not only infuse a delightful sweetness, but they also bring a burst of freshness to each bite. I recommend using fresh blueberries if possible for the best flavor, but frozen ones work well too since they hold their shape even when baked.

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Lighter alternative to traditional brownies with a creamy texture
Bursting with fresh blueberries for a refreshing taste
Easy to make and perfect for any occasion

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Using cottage cheese in brownies not only makes them lighter but also adds a rich creaminess that enhances their texture. The moisture from the cottage cheese helps create a fudgy interior, which contrasts beautifully with the slight chewiness you'd expect from a traditional brownie. Make sure to blend the cottage cheese thoroughly until it's smooth to avoid any lumps, which can affect the final texture.

Cottage cheese is also a fantastic source of protein, which means these brownies can satisfy your sweet cravings without the typical guilt. The subtle tang from the cheese balances out the sweetness from the sugar, ensuring the flavor remains well-rounded and not overly cloying. If you're looking to reduce the fat content further, use low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese, keeping in mind that the texture might be slightly less rich.

Selecting Blueberries for the Best Flavor

When adding blueberries to your brownies, freshness is key. If you're using fresh berries, look for ones that are plump and firm, avoiding those that are too soft or mushy. Fresh blueberries will not only add vibrant flavor but also a beautiful contrast against the dark brownie base. If using frozen blueberries, ensure they are unsweetened and do not thaw them before incorporating; this will help prevent the batter from becoming too wet.

Blueberries add both moisture and a burst of fruity flavor, which brightens up each bite. Their natural sweetness can help reduce the need for excess sugar. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider substituting some of the blueberries for chopped nuts or a different berry variety, depending on what's in season or available. Just keep the total volume of added ingredients similar to maintain the batter's consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious brownies:

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese, smooth
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting.

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your brownies perfectly:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Blend the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sugar, cocoa powder, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

Mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.

Fold in Blueberries

Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to crush them.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares to serve.

Enjoy your Cottage Cheese Brownies warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top before serving to make them look even more appealing.

Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies

Baking time is crucial for achieving that perfect brownie texture. Keep an eye on the brownies as they approach the 25-minute mark; visually, they should be set at the edges and slightly soft in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating they are done but not overbaked. Remember, they will continue to cook slightly from residual heat once out of the oven, so pulling them out a bit earlier can prevent dryness.

If your brownies sink or appear too gooey in the center once cooled, this may be due to underbaking or too much wet ingredient in the batter. On the flip side, overmixing can lead to a denser texture since it develops the gluten in the flour, which is something we want to avoid for these fudgy treats.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

To store your Cottage Cheese Brownies, ensure they've completely cooled before placing them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature or can be refrigerated for up to ten days. If you prefer to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Cut the brownies into squares, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for easy snacking later.

Serving these brownies warm enhances their gooey texture. Consider microwaving individual portions for about 10-15 seconds just before serving, and pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate the indulgence even further. A sprinkle of sea salt can also enhance the chocolate flavor and create an irresistible sweet-salty contrast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute for a similar creamy texture.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

→ What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?

You can substitute almond flour or gluten-free flour, adjusting the quantity as needed.