Cottage Cheese Brownies with Strawberry Pieces

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Strawberry Pieces
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped

Highlighted under: Oven Food

I developed these Cottage Cheese Brownies as a unique twist on the classic dessert, incorporating creamy cottage cheese for added moisture and protein. The addition of fresh strawberry pieces elevates the flavor profile, making each bite a delightful experience. This recipe is perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth without the guilt, as it combines indulgence with a touch of healthiness. In just under an hour, I can whip up a batch that my family devours without knowing all that cottage cheese is lurking in the mix!

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:04:37.373Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I knew I wanted something rich without being overly decadent. The cottage cheese provided a creamy texture while significantly reducing the fat content. I was surprised at how well it blended into the brownie batter, giving it a unique twist that traditional brownies lack.

Each time I bake these, I love using seasonal strawberries for a burst of freshness. I learned that folding in the strawberry pieces just before baking keeps them intact, allowing them to soften while maintaining their identifiable shape. It brings a lovely surprise to every bite!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
A healthier alternative to classic brownies without sacrificing flavor
Surprise pockets of juicy strawberries with every bite
Rich, fudgy texture that satisfies your cravings

The Magic of Cottage Cheese

Using cottage cheese in brownies adds not only moisture but also a unique creaminess that sets these treats apart from traditional recipes. Rich in protein, cottage cheese helps create a denser texture while still allowing for a fudgy finish. Make sure to blend it thoroughly, so there are no curds left. A high-quality, full-fat cottage cheese works best as it brings an enjoyable richness to the batter.

This ingredient works wonders by replacing some of the fat usually found in brownies. Although you might think it would dry out the recipe, combining it with sugar helps maintain the perfect sweetness and moisture level. For those looking for a dairy-free option, ricotta cheese can be used in a similar proportion, but keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly.

Incorporating Fresh Strawberries

Fresh strawberries not only add vibrant color but also burst with juicy flavor in each bite. When selecting strawberries, aim for ripe, fragrant ones, as they have the best taste and sweetness. You can gently toss the chopped strawberries in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter. This technique prevents them from sinking to the bottom during baking, ensuring that each brownie has pockets of strawberries throughout.

Consider the timing of your strawberry addition as well. Folding them in right before pouring the batter into the baking dish allows them to maintain their texture and bright flavor. If you're making these brownies in advance or want a stronger strawberry flavor, consider adding a touch of strawberry extract to the mix for an even more pronounced taste.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped

Make sure to have everything ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly baked brownies:

Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, blend the cottage cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Fold in Strawberries

Gently fold in the chopped strawberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. 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 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious Cottage Cheese Brownies!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dash of espresso powder to the batter.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerating them extends their shelf life to about a week. You can also freeze individual brownies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months this way, which is perfect for an on-the-go treat.

To enjoy frozen brownies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or briefly pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This way, you'll rediscover the fudgy texture and the delightful strawberry pockets that make this treat so special.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your brownies come out overly dry, it might be due to overbaking or not measuring the flour correctly. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean. This will help prevent overbaking and keep your brownies fudgy.

In the event that your brownies don't rise as expected, ensure your baking soda is fresh and properly incorporated with the dry ingredients. Sometimes, the moisture content in the cottage cheese can vary, so it's important not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients, as this can lead to denser, flatter brownies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

→ What can I serve with these brownies?

They pair well with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.