Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Butter

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup hazelnut butter; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Food

I absolutely love making these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Butter because they are a delightful blend of indulgence and nutrition. The creamy cottage cheese gives a rich texture that makes these brownies moist, while the hazelnut butter adds a nutty depth of flavor. I often share them with friends during gatherings, and they disappear in a flash! With each bite, you can taste the wholesome ingredients, making these brownies a guilt-free pleasure that I can enjoy any time.

Created by

Octavia Bellamy

Last updated on 2026-01-13T07:19:36.458Z

When I first experimented with using cottage cheese in brownies, I was amazed by how well it worked. It not only provides a healthy twist but also enhances the texture. I’ve made these brownies several times, tweaking the recipe each time, and I found that using fresh cottage cheese really adds to the flavor. Just make sure to blend it well so it fully integrates into the brownie batter.

One specific tip I would recommend is to let the brownies cool completely before cutting them. This way, they hold together better and the flavors have a chance to meld. Trust me, the wait is worth it for that perfect slice!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadently rich flavor combined with nutritious ingredients
Moist and chewy texture that satisfies your sweet cravings
Nutty hazelnut butter enhances the overall experience

      

Ingredient Insights

Using cottage cheese in brownies may seem unconventional, but it plays a crucial role in achieving that moist, fudgy texture. The high moisture content not only enhances the richness of the brownies but also adds protein, making them a more nutritious option than traditional recipes. For the best results, opt for full-fat cottage cheese for a creamier consistency, but low-fat varieties can work too if you want to reduce calories.

Hazelnut butter adds a delightful nutty flavor and marries well with the cocoa powder, elevating the overall taste profile. If you can't find hazelnut butter or want to experiment, almond or peanut butter can serve as excellent substitutes. Keep in mind that using a nut butter with a stronger flavor will significantly change the profile of these brownies, so choose according to your taste preferences.

Baking Tips

To achieve the perfect brownie texture, it's vital not to overbake. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes; look for the edges to pull away slightly from the pan while the center remains slightly soft. When testing for doneness, inserting a toothpick should yield a few moist crumbs rather than being completely clean. This ensures the brownies maintain their chewy goodness.

After baking, letting the brownies cool properly is essential. Cooling for just 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack allows them to set without becoming overly crumbly. If you're eager to enjoy them, consider refrigerating the brownies for about 30 minutes after they cool on the rack, which makes them easier to cut into neat squares.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup hazelnut butter
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for the best results.

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a brownie pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Blend Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, hazelnut butter, cocoa powder, sugar, flour, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.

Pour and Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Once done, allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious brownies!

Pro Tips

Experiment with adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies can be made ahead of time, which makes them a great option for meal prep or gatherings. Once cooled and cut, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. Just ensure they are wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

To thaw frozen brownies, simply leave them out at room temperature for a few hours or microwave for about 15-20 seconds. You can also warm them slightly in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes to regain that fresh-baked texture.

Serving Suggestions

When serving, these brownies can be enhanced with a drizzle of chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream for an even more decadent dessert. Pairing them with fresh berries adds a nice contrast to the chocolatey richness, making for an appealing presentation.

For variations, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the brownie batter for extra texture. A sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking can also enhance the flavor, creating a delightful sweet-salty balance that complements the nutty hazelnut butter beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well, but full-fat gives a richer flavor.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! These brownies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for hazelnut butter?

You can use almond butter or peanut butter as a substitute, but it will alter the flavor slightly.