Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon whenever I'm craving something indulgent yet slightly healthier. These brownies have a delightful texture that reminds me of my childhood desserts, but with the added benefit of protein-rich cottage cheese. The aroma of cinnamon fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a piece while they cool. I usually make a double batch because they're such a hit, and the balance of chocolatey goodness with a hint of spice is simply irresistible!

Created by

Rosalie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:22:11.840Z

I remember the first time I tried to incorporate cottage cheese into a brownie recipe. I was skeptical, but the results blew me away! The cottage cheese adds a creamy texture, and you really can’t taste it. After a few experiments, I found that balancing the chocolate with a touch of cinnamon made these brownies truly special.

One of my favorite tips is to let them cool completely before slicing, as they slice more cleanly and develop a rich flavor. The cinnamon not only complements the chocolate but also gives an unexpected warmth that makes each bite a little adventure. These brownies are my go-to for gatherings; they never last long!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Decadent chocolate taste with a hint of cinnamon spice
Packed with protein from cottage cheese for a guilt-free treat
Moist and fudgy texture that's perfect for satisfying cravings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of cottage cheese and cocoa powder in these brownies not only enhances the fudgy texture but also adds a considerable amount of protein. Cottage cheese is a wonderful alternative to traditional fats in dessert recipes, providing moisture and richness without being overly indulgent. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, consider using low-fat cottage cheese, though be wary that it may alter the creamy consistency slightly.

Cinnamon is a key ingredient that elevates the flavor profile of these brownies. It's not just a spice to add warmth; it complements the chocolate beautifully, making the dessert feel more complex. If you're a fan of spice, feel free to increase the cinnamon a bit or even add a pinch of nutmeg to further enhance the flavor.

Techniques for Perfect Brownies

To achieve the perfect brownie texture, blending all wet ingredients until they're completely smooth is crucial. This eliminates any lumps from the cottage cheese, resulting in a velvety batter. A high-speed blender or food processor can be particularly effective here, ensuring a seamless mix. Keep an eye on the blending time—overmixing may incorporate too much air, which can lead to a cake-like brownie instead of the desired fudgy result.

When mixing in the dry ingredients, do so gently. Use a spatula or wooden spoon and stir just until combined; avoiding overmixing is key to maintaining that moist, fudgy texture. You should see a few streaks of flour remaining before you pour the batter into your pan. This means the dry ingredients are just incorporated, helping to ensure a more tender brownie.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly for the best consistency.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Mixture

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

Add Dry Ingredients

Stir in the cinnamon, flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing just until combined.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious brownies with a scoop of ice cream or a dusting of powdered sugar!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for any occasion. For an indulgent treat, top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce can also enhance the chocolate flavor and add visual appeal.

If you're looking to elevate your presentation even further, consider garnishing with crushed nuts or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, can provide a tart contrast that complements the sweetness of the brownies. Serving them with a side of fresh fruit adds a nice touch as well.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies store well, making them a sensible treat to whip up ahead of time. Once cooled, cut them into squares and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze the uncut brownies for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

To reheat frozen brownies, simply microwave them for about 20-30 seconds right before serving. This revives their fudgy texture and enhances the chocolate flavor. Just be careful not to overheat, as this can make them dry and crumbly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works just as well and will still give you a moist brownie.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for sugar?

You can use alternatives like honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute, but keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.