Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 2 large eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first tried making brownies with cottage cheese, I was pleasantly surprised by the results. The creaminess of the cottage cheese adds a unique texture and richness to these brownies that elevates them beyond your typical dessert. Combined with the warm allure of cinnamon, these brownies have become a delightful treat I enjoy sharing with friends and family. They're easy to whip up, and the balance of flavors is simply irresistible, making them a standout choice for any gathering.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:28:06.900Z

I discovered the secret to moist brownies lies in using cottage cheese, which not only enriches their flavor but also makes them much lighter. While experimenting with this idea, I decided to add a hint of cinnamon for warmth and spice. This combination has been a game-changer for my dessert repertoire, as it brings about a unique twist on traditional brownies.

One tip I've learned is to blend the cottage cheese until smooth before adding it to the batter. This ensures that there's no graininess in the final product and that every bite is delectably creamy. I think you'll love how finger-licking good these brownies are, perfect for special occasions or just a cozy night in.

        Why You Will Love These Brownies
        A unique texture from cottage cheese that you won't forget
Warm, comforting cinnamon flavor rounds out each bite
Guilt-free indulgence that doesn't compromise on taste

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is the star ingredient in these brownies, offering a unique creaminess that elevates the texture to something truly special. When blended smoothly, it replaces some of the fat traditionally found in brownie recipes without compromising on flavor. The proteins in cottage cheese also contribute to a denser, fudgy consistency that contrasts beautifully with the lightness typically associated with traditional brownies. Be sure to use full-fat cottage cheese for the best results; the extra creaminess really shines through in the baked brownies.

Additionally, the moisture content from the cottage cheese helps retain freshness, which means these brownies stay soft and chewy even after several days. If you can’t find cottage cheese or prefer a dairy-free alternative, consider using silken tofu blended to a similar consistency. However, keep in mind that the flavor might change slightly. If experimenting with substitutions, always tweak the baking time as per the moisture level of the alternative.

Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies

To achieve that perfect brownie texture, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined allows for some air to be trapped, which will contribute to a delightful rise during baking. After pouring the batter into the prepared pan, give the pan a gentle tap on the counter. This will help eliminate any air bubbles that may have formed and ensure an even bake, leading to a smoother surface.

Keep an eye on the baking time—oven temperatures can vary significantly. The brownies should be done when the edges appear set and the top looks slightly glossy. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs; if it emerges clean, the brownies might be overbaked, leading to a drier texture. If you prefer a more fudgy center, you might even reduce the baking time by 2–3 minutes.

Serving and Storing Your Brownies

Once the brownies have cooled in the pan for at least 10 minutes, you can transfer them to a wire rack for even more cooling. This step helps maintain their texture and prevents them from becoming soggy. Cut the brownies into generous squares—if you use a plastic or non-stick knife, it’ll glide through the chocolatey goodness with ease! For an extra touch, consider serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top.

To store leftover brownies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon:

Brownie Ingredients

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

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake the perfect brownies:

Prepare the Oven

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

Blend the Cottage Cheese

In a blender, combine the cottage cheese until smooth. This step ensures a creamy texture for your brownies.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the blended cottage cheese, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

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

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Pro Tips

For extra decadence, top your brownies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or serve with a dollop of whipped cream.

Flavor Variations

While the warm cinnamon flavor is a standout in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other spices. A hint of nutmeg or a dash of espresso powder can deepen the chocolate flavor and add complexity. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, consider stirring in some chopped nuts like walnuts, or a handful of dark chocolate chips to the batter for added texture.

You can also make a swirled brownie by creating a simple cream cheese frosting, blending cream cheese with a bit of sugar and vanilla, and marbling it into the brownie batter before baking. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a delightful tangy contrast to the sweetness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies come out too sponge-like, this is most often the result of overmixing the batter. Remember, you're looking for a smooth blend of wet and dry ingredients without excessive stirring. This allows them to be fudgy rather than cake-like. If you notice any cracks forming on the surface when baked, this indicates that they might be overbaked. A few adjustments in baking time can remedy this next time around.

Another common issue is brownies sticking to the pan. Make sure to grease it generously or line it with parchment paper, allowing for easy removal once cooled. If they do stick, running a thin knife around the edges can help release them from the sides. A bit of patience is key; let them cool fully before attempting to cut or remove them!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute cottage cheese with another ingredient?

You can try using Greek yogurt for a similar texture, but the flavor might differ.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I use a different flavor instead of cinnamon?

Absolutely! You could replace it with vanilla extract or even add some chopped nuts for extra crunch.

→ Are these brownies gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.