Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Spread

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

Highlighted under: Oven Recipes

I’m always on the lookout for ways to make indulgent treats a little lighter without sacrificing flavor. These Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnut Spread have become my go-to dessert. The combination of creamy cottage cheese and rich hazelnut spread creates a luscious brownie that delights the senses while adding some unexpected protein. Trust me, you'll be amazed at how satisfying they are, and they disappear quickly at any gathering!

Created by

Rosalyn Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:49:35.506Z

When I first tried making brownies with cottage cheese, I was skeptical, but the results blew me away. I discovered that the cottage cheese adds moisture and a subtle creaminess that works beautifully with the chocolate. By blending it with hazelnut spread, I achieved a rich flavor reminiscent of my favorite desserts, without the usual heaviness. This way, I can indulge without remorse!

Each time I make these brownies, I experiment with the toppings, from crushed nuts to a sprinkle of sea salt, enhancing their appeal even further. The texture remains fudgy and satisfying, making them a perfect treat for both kids and adults. I encourage you to try these at your next gathering—you won't regret it!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Deliciously rich shortcuts that satisfy chocolaty cravings.
A hidden protein boost that keeps them feeling guilt-free.
Perfectly fudgy with a creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Using cottage cheese in these brownies adds a boost of protein and moisture, resulting in a rich texture without the extra fat found in traditional recipes. When blended properly, it creates a creamy base that not only enhances the brownie’s flavor but also ensures they stay fudgy and tender. Opt for low-fat cottage cheese to keep the recipe light while still maintaining that luscious mouthfeel.

Additionally, choosing a well-blended cottage cheese is crucial. Lumpy or chunky cottage cheese can affect the smoothness of your brownie batter. If you're concerned, you can pulse the cottage cheese in a food processor for a few seconds to achieve a perfectly creamy consistency before mixing it with the other wet ingredients.

Hazelnut Spread: A Rich Flavor Boost

The addition of hazelnut spread brings not only decadent flavor but also moisture to these brownies, enhancing their texture. Be sure to use a high-quality hazelnut spread for the best results; it should have a good balance of cocoa and nuttiness. This flavor profile pairs wonderfully with the chocolatey notes from the cocoa powder, creating a deep, rich experience with every bite.

If you're looking for a variation, consider swapping the hazelnut spread for almond or peanut butter. Each nut butter offers a unique flavor twist while still contributing to the creamy consistency that these brownies are celebrated for. Just keep in mind that different spreads will alter the overall taste slightly, so choose one that fits your flavor preferences.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert for gatherings. If you’d like to keep them fresh for longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. Just ensure they are wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

For serving, I recommend letting the brownies sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the flavors to settle and enhances the fudgy texture. Top with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of additional hazelnut spread for an extra touch that elevates their appearance and flavor when serving guests or family.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started on your delicious brownies:

For the Brownies

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

Mix well and get ready to bake!

Instructions

Prepare the Oven

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

Blend Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, hazelnut spread, and eggs. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until fully integrated.

Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before slicing into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious brownies!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try swirling in some extra hazelnut spread or topping the brownies with chopped nuts before baking.

Troubleshooting Brownies

If your brownies come out too dry, it might be due to overmixing or overbaking. To prevent this, ensure you remove them from the oven once a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs; this indicates they are perfectly baked. Trust your instincts over timing, as oven temperatures can vary.

On the other hand, if your brownies turn out too gooey, it may be a sign that they need more time in the oven. Don’t hesitate to add an additional 5 minutes, checking periodically until the toothpick test shows a clean result. Remember, the brownies will continue to firm up as they cool, so aim for them to be slightly underbaked.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe for larger gatherings is simple. To double the batch, use a 9x13 inch baking dish and increase the ingredients accordingly. Keep an eye on baking time, as larger portions may need an extra 5-10 minutes. Ensure you test for doneness by using the toothpick method to prevent overbaking.

If you're looking to make individual servings, consider pouring the batter into a muffin tin. Adjust the baking time to around 18-20 minutes, and keep a close watch to ensure each brownie remains fudge-like in texture. This method not only makes for easy serving but also adds a fun twist to your dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute cottage cheese with something else?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt for a similar texture and flavor.

→ How should I store these brownies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to three months; just thaw before serving.

→ Is there a way to make them vegan?

You can use a vegan alternative for the cottage cheese and replace the eggs with flax eggs.