Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon Sugar

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon Sugar
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar (for topping)

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection

I love baking, and these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon Sugar have quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of creamy cottage cheese with rich chocolate gives these brownies a unique texture that's both fudgy and light. Topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, they bring a delightful warmth to every bite. They're perfect for sharing during gatherings or enjoying as a late-night treat. Trust me, once you try these brownies, you'll understand why they soon became my guilty pleasure!

Created by

Serena Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:21:35.356Z

When I first discovered the concept of using cottage cheese in desserts, I was skeptical yet intrigued. I decided to give it a try with these brownies, and the results were nothing short of magical! It adds moisture and a unique richness that balances perfectly with the chocolate.

While perfecting this recipe, I learned that cooling the brownies completely before cutting them is crucial for achieving clean edges. This little tip has transformed my brownies from messy to beautifully presented treats every time!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor with a hint of cinnamon
Creamy texture with the goodness of cottage cheese
A healthier twist on traditional brownies

Understanding the Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is an unconventional but brilliant choice for brownie batter. Its creamy texture enhances the moisture content, resulting in brownies that are both rich and fluffy. This ingredient not only reduces the need for excessive butter but also adds a unique protein boost, making these brownies a tad healthier without sacrificing flavor. When blended well, the cottage cheese virtually disappears, so you won’t even notice it’s there—just the luscious chocolate goodness remains.

When using cottage cheese, it's essential to blend it until completely smooth. Lumps can create an uneven texture, which might lead to chewy or dry spots. If you want to ensure perfect incorporation, consider using a food processor or blender. Alternatively, if you're looking for a lighter version, you can opt for low-fat cottage cheese. The overall experience will still be deliciously satisfying.

Tips for Baking the Perfect Brownies

Achieving the ideal brownie texture requires a careful balance of baking time and temperature. Baking at 350°F (175°C) allows the brownies to cook evenly, giving you that desirable fudgy center. Keep a close eye on them toward the end of the baking time. Start checking for doneness at around 22 minutes; you want to see a slight jiggle in the center when the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.

If you prefer a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, consider mixing some cinnamon directly into the brownie batter. A teaspoon of ground cinnamon combined with the other dry ingredients can elevate the overall taste profile. Alternatively, feel free to substitute the cinnamon sugar topping with a sprinkle of sea salt for a contrasting flavor that enhances the chocolate richness.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start for a smooth baking experience.

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar (for topping)

Make sure everything is measured accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to achieve the perfect brownies.

Prepare Your Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares and serving.

Enjoy your delicious brownies warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter before baking. It adds texture and an additional burst of flavor!

Storing and Freezing Brownies

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. To keep their texture intact, place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. If you wish to indulge later, freezing them is a fantastic option. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed freezer bag. They can last up to three months frozen without losing flavor and texture.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen brownies, simply remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked taste.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful serving experience, consider pairing these brownies with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the fudgy texture of the brownies, creating a harmonious dessert. You could also drizzle a homemade chocolate sauce over the top to intensify the chocolate flavor.

If you're serving during a gathering, cut the brownies into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a decorative platter. You can add fresh berries on the side, which not only adds a vibrant color but also a fresh acidity that complements the rich chocolate and cinnamon. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add an elegant finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute, but it may change the texture slightly.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

→ What can I serve with these brownies?

They pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent dessert!