Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon Sugar

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon Sugar
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Oven Recipes

I love making these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon Sugar because they combine healthy ingredients with rich flavors. The creamy cottage cheese adds moisture and a slight tang to the brownies, while the cinnamon sugar topping elevates them to a whole new level. It's a delightful contrast that keeps everyone guessing what's in this delicious treat! Plus, knowing I can enjoy chocolatey goodness without the guilt is a major bonus. Whether it's a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, these brownies never disappoint.

Created by

Rosalyn Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:36:49.974Z

When I first tried making brownies with cottage cheese, I was skeptical. I wondered if the texture would be off or if they would taste too healthy. But to my surprise, they turned out incredibly moist and decadent! The key is to blend the cottage cheese until smooth, ensuring a seamless integration into the batter. This method not only enhances the texture but also boosts the protein content, making them a guilt-free indulgence.

The cinnamon sugar topping is my secret weapon. It adds a sweet crunch that pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate flavor, transforming these brownies into a delightful treat. I love sprinkling it on right before they come out of the oven for that irresistible finish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with a hint of cinnamon.
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Perfect for gatherings or just a sweet treat at home.

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is the star ingredient in these brownies, providing both moisture and a unique flavor profile. It may seem unconventional for brownie recipes, but its creamy texture helps create a dense and fudgy consistency without loading up on butter or oil. When blended smoothly, it also ensures that the final brownie texture remains soft, preventing any dryness that can sometimes occur with lower-fat recipes. I recommend using full-fat cottage cheese for the richest result.

In addition to its texture benefits, cottage cheese contributes a slight tanginess that contrasts delightfully with the sweetness of the sugar and richness of the cocoa. A common concern is that the cheese flavor might be overpowering, but fear not; when baked, it melds seamlessly into the chocolatey goodness, leaving no trace of curds behind. If you're avoiding dairy, you can try using a non-dairy cream cheese alternative, which can offer a similar creaminess while keeping the brownies rich.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

Baking the brownies for exactly 30 minutes is crucial to achieving that perfect balance of fudgy and chewy. Oven temperatures can vary, so I recommend checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. If you prefer a slightly gooey brownie, feel free to take them out a minute or two early—just be cautious, as underbaking can lead to a collapsed texture.

Another tip for achieving a flawless bake is to ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Cold eggs or cottage cheese can affect how well the batter incorporates, ultimately sabotaging the rise and texture. Allowing these ingredients to warm up will help them blend more smoothly and contribute to a consistent baking outcome.

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon

Mix the ingredients thoroughly for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Cottage Cheese

In a mixing bowl, blend the cottage cheese until smooth.

Mix the Brownie Batter

Add sugar, cocoa powder, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs to the cottage cheese, and mix well. Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar

While the brownies are baking, mix the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

Add Topping

When the brownies are done baking, remove them from the oven and immediately sprinkle the cinnamon sugar on top.

Cool and Cut

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Enjoy!

Serve warm or at room temperature for the best experience.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to the brownie batter before baking.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftover brownies—though that rarely happens—they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer-lasting treats, consider freezing them. Simply wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months frozen, making them an ideal make-ahead dessert for future cravings.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen brownie, simply let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you want to restore some warmth, pop them in a microwave for just 10-15 seconds. This enhances their fudgy texture just like when they were freshly baked.

Variations to Explore

While the classic recipe is already delicious, feel free to explore variations. For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter before baking. The added texture and flavor can elevate the brownies even further and complement the chocolate perfectly. For a seasonal spin, try incorporating pumpkin puree or mashed ripe bananas instead of some of the cottage cheese to add both moisture and a hint of autumn flavor.

Another fun option is to mix in chocolate chips for an extra dose of chocolatey goodness. Dark chocolate chips, in particular, will go well with the rich cocoa base of these brownies, adding pockets of melted chocolate throughout. Just be sure to fold them in gently to keep the batter airy!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works perfectly in this recipe.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for the eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs if needed.