Choco Cherry Cottage Cheese Brownies

Name: Choco Cherry Cottage Cheese Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup melted butter; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or frozen); 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Choco Cherry Cottage Cheese Brownies. The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates a delightful tension that keeps you coming back for another bite. Adding cottage cheese not only helps to create a moist texture but also packs in extra protein. I often prepare these for gatherings or when I crave a decadent treat without the guilt. Get ready for a dessert that surprises everyone with its unique and delicious flavors!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:41:27.753Z

When I first experimented with cottage cheese in desserts, I was amazed at how it blended seamlessly into brownie batter. I tried various combinations and settled on pairing it with cherries. The cherries not only add a burst of flavor but also a beautiful color that makes the brownies visually appealing.

I recommend using fresh or frozen cherries for this recipe. If you opt for frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture. The texture remains fudgy and satisfying, and the cottage cheese ensures each bite is rich, without being overly heavy.

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart cherries
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Packed with protein from cottage cheese
Low in guilt, high in satisfaction

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Cottage cheese serves a dual purpose in these brownies. Not only does it contribute a creamy texture that enhances the mouthfeel, but it also increases the protein content, making each bite more satisfying and less guilt-inducing. The moisture from the cottage cheese helps to keep the brownies from drying out, ensuring they remain fudgy and delicious. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, consider using silken tofu blended until smooth, which can replicate the texture effectively.

The balance of flavors in these brownies is crucial, especially with the tartness of the cherries. Whether you opt for fresh or frozen cherries, make sure to chop them into smaller pieces for better distribution, which allows that burst of flavor to enhance each bite. If cherries aren't your favorite, raspberries or blueberries could provide a similarly fruity twist, though they may alter the flavor profile slightly.

Baking Techniques for Success

Preheating your oven to the correct temperature is essential for achieving the perfect brownie texture. A temperature of 350°F (175°C) is standard, but keep in mind that oven temperatures can vary. To ensure even baking, consider using an oven thermometer. Once the brownies are baking, you’ll want to keep an eye on them—aim for a slightly puffed surface with a few cracks, indicating that they are done but still moist inside.

When mixing the wet ingredients, it’s important to blend them until smooth to achieve a uniform batter. An immersion blender or food processor can make this easier, creating a silky consistency that will help with the final texture. Avoid overmixing once you add the dry ingredients, as this can lead to tougher brownies. Just mix until combined to maintain that beautiful fudgy structure.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to make the process smoother.

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup melted butter
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to have everything measured out to ensure perfect results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious brownies.

Preheat Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

Add cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until fully combined.

Fold in Cherries

Gently fold in the pitted cherries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your delicious Choco Cherry Cottage Cheese Brownies!

Enjoy these brownies warm or at room temperature; they are delicious either way!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some chocolate chips on top before baking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Choco Cherry Cottage Cheese Brownies can be made ahead of time, making them a great option for gatherings or meal prep. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze the brownies. Cut them into squares, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept frozen for up to three months; simply thaw at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy them.

To keep the moisture in, consider adding a slice of bread or a small piece of apple to the container with the brownies. This can help maintain their softness longer. If you’re planning to serve them at a later date, consider a quick reheating in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes to revive their fudgy consistency before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For serving, consider dusting the top of your brownies with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a touch of elegance. Pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream enhances the dessert experience, balancing the intense chocolate flavor with creamy richness. Fresh mint leaves can also add a refreshing contrast to the deep flavors of the brownies.

If you want to experiment, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top right before baking to enhance the overall flavor profile. You could even incorporate chocolate chips into the batter for extra richness. For a nutty twist, toasted walnuts or pecans mixed in could add a delightful crunch, though this will alter the overall texture slightly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

While cottage cheese is recommended for its texture and protein, you can experiment with ricotta or cream cheese.

→ How do I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I use other fruits?

Yes! Instead of cherries, you can try raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor.

→ Can I make them gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.