Cottage Cheese Brownies with Maple Almond Topping

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Maple Almond Topping
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup sliced almonds; 2 tbsp maple syrup; 1 tbsp coconut oil

Highlighted under: Sweet Food

I couldn't believe how delicious these Cottage Cheese Brownies turned out when I first tried making them! The combination of rich cocoa and creamy cottage cheese creates a decadent treat that's surprisingly guilt-free. The maple almond topping adds a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness, making these brownies perfect for any occasion. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, I can whip up a batch whenever the craving strikes. Trust me, these brownies will become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire!

Created by

Octavia Bellamy

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:33:34.548Z

When I first decided to experiment with cottage cheese in brownies, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Adding cottage cheese brings moisture and a unique texture that I never thought could exist in a brownie. It’s a great way to sneak in extra protein without sacrificing taste!

After several trials, I found that baking these brownies at a lower temperature helps them stay tender and fudgy. The wonderful topping made with maple syrup and sliced almonds truly elevates the flavors as well, creating a perfect contrast to the chocolate base.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almond topping
Perfectly fudgy texture that satisfies chocolate cravings
Healthier twist using cottage cheese for added protein

      

Mastering the Brownie Batter

The first step to achieving perfect Cottage Cheese Brownies is blending the cottage cheese thoroughly until it is completely smooth. This will ensure that you don’t end up with curds in your batter, which could affect the texture of the brownies. A high-speed blender or food processor works best for this task, as it helps incorporate air, resulting in a lighter brownie. Aim for a glossy, creamy consistency before proceeding to mix in the cocoa and other ingredients.

When mixing the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, it’s crucial to mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough brownies. Once you add the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder, use a folding motion to incorporate, being careful not to overwork the batter. This will keep the brownies fudgy and moist, contributing to the delightful texture that makes them irresistible.

Perfecting the Maple Almond Topping

The maple almond topping not only adds lovely flavor but also texture contrast to the rich brownies. When melting the coconut oil and combining it with maple syrup, make sure to keep the heat low, especially if using a stove-top method. Overheating can cause the syrup to caramelize too much, which might make the topping overly sticky instead of perfectly drizzled. Stir the mixture until just melted and combined, then add the sliced almonds for an evenly coated topping.

For a variation, try using different types of nuts or seeds such as walnuts or sunflower seeds if you have nut allergies. You can also adjust the sweetness of the topping by using agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a slightly different flavor profile. Just be mindful of the quantities and keep a 2:1 ratio of liquid to almonds to maintain the right balance and texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious brownies:

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

For the Maple Almond Topping

1/4 cup sliced almonds
2 tbsp maple syrup
1 tbsp coconut oil

Make sure to measure ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your cottage cheese brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix the Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, cocoa powder, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Then add the flour, salt, and baking powder, and stir until just combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Topping

While the brownies are baking, prepare the topping. In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil and mix in the maple syrup. Stir in the sliced almonds, coating them evenly.

Add the Topping

Once the brownies are done baking, remove them from the oven and immediately drizzle the maple almond topping over the hot brownies. Let it cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your brownies fresh or store them in an airtight container!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of espresso powder to the brownie batter. You can also substitute the almond topping with walnuts for a different texture.

Storage Tips

Once your brownies have completely cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To keep them fresh for longer, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their shelf life to a week. If you choose this method, simply bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you want to prepare these brownies ahead of time, feel free to freeze them! Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or place them in freezer-safe bags. They can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about an hour.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the flavor of these Cottage Cheese Brownies, consider serving them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warmth of the brownies combined with the cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that elevates the dessert experience. A drizzle of additional maple syrup on top can also add extra sweetness and enhance the maple flavors in the topping.

If you’re looking for a more sophisticated presentation, top each brownie with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving. This not only adds a beautiful garnish but also balances the sweetness beautifully, making each bite even more satisfying. For a healthier twist, pair the brownies with fresh berries for a burst of flavor and color on the plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well and keeps the brownies moist.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I use instead of maple syrup?

You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup if you prefer.