Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cashew Butter

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cashew Butter
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1/2 cup cashew butter; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Oven Food

I love indulging in desserts that offer a twist on traditional favorites, and these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cashew Butter truly deliver. The surprise ingredient of cottage cheese not only adds moisture, but also packs in protein, making these brownies a guilt-free treat. Pairing it with the creamy texture of cashew butter takes them to another level of deliciousness. Whether I'm having a cozy night in or entertaining friends, these brownies always satisfy my sweet tooth while keeping things interesting.

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:18:36.435Z

When I first experimented with these Cottage Cheese Brownies, I was curious about using cottage cheese in a dessert. I learned that it helps to create a fudgy texture without the heaviness of extra oils or butter. This method not only contributes to the richness of the brownies but also keeps them lighter than traditional recipes.

What surprised me the most was the pairing with cashew butter. It adds a unique flavor profile and creaminess that perfectly complements the chocolate. I've found that by using high-quality cocoa powder, the chocolate richness shines through, enhancing this delightful treat. I’ll definitely be making these again!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Moist and fudgy texture that's hard to resist
Nutty flavor from cashew butter elevates the chocolate
Packed with protein from cottage cheese for a guilt-free indulgence

Unlocking the Texture

The key to achieving that moist, fudgy texture in these brownies lies in the cottage cheese. Blending it until smooth ensures there are no lumps, which helps integrate it seamlessly into the batter. As it bakes, the moisture from the cottage cheese keeps the brownies soft, while the cocoa powder balances the richness, providing that classic brownie flavor. Just remember, overmixing can lead to a denser texture, so mix until just combined.

Using room-temperature ingredients can also contribute to a wonderfully cohesive batter. When combining your eggs and cashew butter, take a moment to let them warm up to room temperature before adding them to the mixture. This allows for better incorporation, creating a silky texture that is crucial for the final outcome.

Sweetener Choices

While honey and maple syrup are both excellent choices for sweetening these brownies, you can easily tailor the sweetness to your preference. If you enjoy a more intense chocolate flavor, consider reducing the sweetener amount by a couple of tablespoons. Alternatively, for a lower-calorie option, a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol can be used, but make sure to adjust the measurements according to the product's guidelines.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of coffee or espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor even further. Just a teaspoon can bring a depth that pairs beautifully with the nuttiness of cashew butter.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These brownies store exceptionally well, thanks to the cottage cheese's moisture content. Once cooled, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, where they'll last up to a week. You can also freeze individual squares if you want to save some for later. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

For serving, try warming the brownies in the microwave for a few seconds to bring out their fudginess. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top can turn them into an indulgent dessert. I also love sprinkling some sea salt over the top just before serving to elevate the flavors even more.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

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

Instructions

Directions

Prepare the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, cashew butter, cocoa powder, honey (or maple syrup), eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting them into squares. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped nuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the brownies before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies come out too dry, it's likely they were overbaked. Always check them a few minutes before the timer goes off; they should be set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center. If they seem undercooked, remember they will continue to cook while cooling in the pan. Conversely, if you find your brownies too dense, ensure that you didn’t overmix the batter, which can lead to excessive gluten formation.

Another common issue could be an uneven bake. Ensure that your oven is calibrated correctly, as some ovens can run hot or cold. If using a glass baking pan, you might need to reduce the baking time slightly, as glass retains heat differently than metal pans.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those allergic to cashews or looking for nut-free options, you can substitute the cashew butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini. Both alternatives will maintain the nutritional integrity while bringing their unique flavors to the brownies. Just keep in mind that sunflower seed butter may give a slight green tint due to the reaction with baking soda, but it won’t affect the taste.

If you're in a pinch for cocoa powder, you can swap it for carob powder, but this will alter the taste slightly, creating a sweeter flavor profile. Light chocolate syrup can also be an interesting substitute, reducing the need for additional sweeteners and adding a different texture.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're throwing a party or gathering, scaling this recipe is simple. Doubling the ingredients is straightforward; just use a larger baking pan, like a 9x13 inch, and adjust the baking time slightly. Start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier, as more batter may cook faster due to increased surface area.

For a smaller batch, you can easily halve the recipe and bake it in a smaller 4x8 inch pan. However, keep an eye on the baking time, as it will likely require less time in the oven, while still aiming for that perfect fudgy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes, you can substitute cashew butter with almond butter or peanut butter if preferred.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for cottage cheese?

You can use tofu blended until smooth as a dairy-free alternative to cottage cheese.

→ 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 I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! You can freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly so they don't get freezer burn.