Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon Sugar

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon Sugar
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup melted butter; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Oven Recipes

I adore baking and one of my favorite recent experiments has been making Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon Sugar. This unique twist on a classic dessert not only adds a creamy texture but also packs a protein punch. As someone who loves rich, indulgent flavors, the combination of cottage cheese and cinnamon sugar creates a delightful contrast to the chocolatey goodness. I’ve found that using cottage cheese lends moisture without the heaviness of traditional recipes, allowing me to enjoy these brownies without the guilt.

Created by

Rosalyn Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:41:34.811Z

When I decided to try incorporating cottage cheese into brownies, I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome. The unique addition not only enhances the brownies' moistness but also boosts their nutritional value. Each bite is rich and satisfying, while the cinnamon sugar topping adds an aromatic sweetness that brings everything together.

I discovered that blending the cottage cheese until smooth is key to avoiding clumps. The result is a silky batter that's easy to work with. It's a perfect recipe for anyone looking to impress guests with something a bit different, but equally delicious!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Moist and fudgy texture with the nutritional boost of cottage cheese
Delightful cinnamon sugar crust that adds a sweet crunch
A creative twist on traditional brownies that will impress your guests

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is the star ingredient in these brownies, providing not only moisture but also a delightful creaminess that elevates the overall texture. When blended until smooth, it mimics the richness of fats found in traditional brownie recipes but allows for a lower calorie count. This unique addition contributes protein, making each bite more satisfying. If you prefer a higher protein content, consider using a low-fat or fat-free version, which will still maintain a deliciously moist result.

One of the key advantages of using cottage cheese is its ability to reduce the heaviness typically associated with brownies. While traditional recipes rely solely on butter and eggs for moisture, the cottage cheese introduces lightness, which helps avoid a dense center. Just ensure the cottage cheese is blended well; this will prevent any curds from interfering with the smooth finish of your brownies.

Perfecting the Cinnamon Sugar Crust

The cinnamon sugar topping is not just an aesthetic garnish; it adds a wonderful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the fudgy texture of the brownies. When mixed together, the granulated sugar and cinnamon create a delightful sweetness that seeps into the surface of the brownies as they bake. For an extra flavor twist, feel free to experiment with nutmeg or vanilla sugar to diversify the topping while still maintaining that comforting, warm spice profile.

Timing is also essential when adding the cinnamon sugar. It should be applied right before the brownies go into the oven to ensure an even, caramelized crust. Keep an eye on your brownies as they bake; after about 20 minutes, you’ll notice a golden edge forming where the cinnamon sugar has melted slightly. This visual cue indicates they are approaching doneness, so test with a toothpick shortly thereafter.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Cottage Cheese Brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

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

Cinnamon Sugar Topping

1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Make sure to double-check your ingredients before getting started!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Cottage Cheese Brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend Cottage Cheese

In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, and eggs. Mix well, then add the blended cottage cheese and vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Pour into Pan

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.

Prepare Cinnamon Sugar

Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl, then sprinkle evenly over the brownie batter.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before slicing into squares and serving.

Enjoy your delicious Cottage Cheese Brownies!

Pro Tips

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

Storage Tips

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be stored easily, making them perfect for meal prep or for indulging later. Once cooled, cut them into squares and place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh at room temperature for about 2-3 days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them; they'll last for up to a week without losing moisture, thanks to the cottage cheese.

If you want to freeze them, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before serving.

Potential Variations

To customize your Cottage Cheese Brownies, consider adding mix-ins to enhance their flavor profile. Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can provide a satisfying crunch. Dark chocolate chips can also elevate the chocolate intensity; try adding about 1/2 cup to the batter for a richer treat. You can even swirl in some peanut butter or almond butter for a nutty touch that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

If you're looking to make these brownies gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that is suitable for baking. The same goes for sugar replacements; using coconut sugar or a sugar-free sweetener can help accommodate dietary preferences while still yielding a delicious result.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese as an alternative, but the texture will differ slightly.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, you can freeze them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

→ What can I serve with these brownies?

These brownies pair well with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dollop of yogurt.