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 dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Golden Inspiration

I absolutely love combining unexpected ingredients to create delightful treats, and these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon Sugar hit all the right notes! The creamy cottage cheese gives the brownies a unique, moist texture that you wouldn’t normally expect. This recipe has become a favorite in my household, as it balances rich chocolate flavor with a hint of sweetness from the cinnamon sugar topping. It’s perfect for an afternoon snack or a midnight indulgence, and I guarantee you won’t be able to stop at just one.

Created by

Tallulah Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:05:35.656Z

When I first experimented with adding cottage cheese to brownies, I was skeptical about how the texture would turn out. To my surprise, the result was a fudgy brownie that was incredibly moist, all while sneaking in some protein! I chose to add a cinnamon sugar topping, which brings an aromatic warmth and an appealing crunch.

One of the best parts of this recipe is how simple it is. You mix wet and dry ingredients separately, then combine, which ensures a consistent batter without overmixing. I’ve found that letting the brownies cool before cutting enhances their texture, making each bite even more enjoyable!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Unique and moist texture from cottage cheese
Deliciously sweet cinnamon sugar topping
A healthier alternative to traditional brownies
Quick and easy to make for any occasion

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is an unconventional ingredient for brownies, yet it plays a crucial role in providing moisture and a rich texture. The creaminess of the cottage cheese adds a unique softness, ensuring that the brownies remain fudgy rather than dry or cakey. Be sure to blend it well with the other wet ingredients; this step helps eliminate any lumps that could disrupt the smoothness of the batter.

Additionally, using cottage cheese can be a healthier alternative to traditional fats like butter or oil. This substitution not only reduces the calorie content but also increases the protein profile of the brownies, making them a more nutritious treat. For a dairy-free option, consider using silken tofu blended until smooth in place of cottage cheese.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To achieve that perfect brownie texture, monitor the baking time closely. The brownies should be set on the edges but still slightly soft in the center. A toothpick inserted into the middle should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating that they have just reached the right level of doneness. Baking them too long can lead to a dry result, which we want to avoid.

Allowing the brownies to cool in the pan before slicing is also important. This resting period helps them firm up, making it easier to cut out clean squares without the edges crumbling. If you find them too soft after cooling, consider putting them in the fridge for 30 minutes; this helps firm them up while enhancing the flavors.

Cinnamon Sugar Topping Ideas

The cinnamon sugar topping isn’t just a delightful finishing touch; it also adds a flavor profile that contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or even a dash of chili powder to the mix for a unique twist. These spices can elevate the flavor and add complexity to your brownies without overpowering the chocolate.

Another way to serve these brownies is by pairing them with fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream. The coolness of vanilla ice cream contrasts nicely with the warmth of the brownies, creating a comforting dessert experience. For a special touch, warm the brownies slightly before serving, allowing the chocolate chips to become melty and indulgent.

Ingredients

Gather all the following ingredients to make these delicious brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs

Cinnamon Sugar Topping

1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Cottage Cheese Brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Melt Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips until smooth, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Pour and Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes.

Prepare Cinnamon Sugar

While the brownies bake, mix 1 tablespoon of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon in a small bowl.

Cool and Serve

Once done, remove the brownies from the oven and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping over the warm brownies. Allow to cool before slicing.

Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding chopped nuts or a swirl of peanut butter into the brownie batter before baking!

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep or surprising guests. Once cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them, where they can last up to a week for optimal freshness.

For even longer storage, consider freezing the brownies. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your brownies are coming out too dry, consider checking your oven's temperature with an oven thermometer. Sometimes, home ovens can run hot, which can lead to overbaking. Another common issue is under-mixing the brownie batter; ensure that the dry ingredients are fully incorporated into the wet mixture to avoid dense patches in your brownies.

Conversely, if your brownies are too gooey or not setting well, it might be a sign that they need a few more minutes in the oven. Always keep an eye on the baking time, as oven conditions can vary. Remember, every oven is different, and it may take a few attempts to perfect the timing for your specific setup.

Scaling the Recipe

If you want to make a larger batch of these brownies for a gathering, simply double the ingredients and use a 9x13 inch baking dish. Keep an eye on the baking time, as a larger quantity may require an additional 5-10 minutes of baking. Test for doneness using the toothpick method, ensuring the center is just set.

Conversely, if you're in the mood for a smaller portion, you can halve the recipe and bake in an 8x8 inch pan. The baking time should remain relatively consistent, but always rely on visual cues and toothpick testing to ensure perfect results regardless of batch size.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well in this recipe, but it may be slightly less creamy.

→ How should I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them individually and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for chocolate chips?

You can use carob chips or even diced dark chocolate for a different flavor.