Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cashew Butter

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cashew Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup cashew butter; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I’ve always been on the lookout for healthier dessert options, and these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cashew Butter truly hit the spot. With creamy cottage cheese to add moisture and enhance the texture, these brownies are both indulgent and packed with protein. The nutty flavor of cashew butter elevates this dessert, creating a deliciously rich taste that satisfies my cravings guilt-free. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them a perfect treat for anyone in need of a sweet snack without sacrificing health.

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:34:10.896Z

When I first made these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cashew Butter, I was genuinely surprised by how decadent they turned out. I had doubts about using cottage cheese, but it gives the brownies a soft texture that doesn't compromise on flavor. The sweetness from the cashew butter pairs perfectly with the chocolate, creating a harmonious balance that I can't get enough of.

Another tip I discovered while perfecting this recipe is to let the brownies cool completely before cutting them. This not only makes the cutting process easier but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, waiting a little longer is worth it for that perfect slice!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Dense, chocolatey goodness with a hint of nuttiness from cashew butter
Rich in protein and lower in sugar than traditional brownies
Soft and fudgy texture that melts in your mouth

      

Ingredient Insight

Cottage cheese might seem like an unusual ingredient for brownies, but it plays a crucial role in achieving a moist and fudgy texture. The high protein content contributes to the overall richness without the added fat typically found in traditional brownie recipes. Make sure to blend it thoroughly so there are no curds, as this will affect the smoothness of the batter.

Cashew butter not only imparts a delightful nuttiness but also enriches the flavor profile of these brownies. If you're looking for a different taste, almond butter can serve as an excellent substitute. Just be aware that it has a more pronounced flavor that can change the taste of the brownies slightly.

Baking Techniques

To ensure even baking, it's vital to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let the brownie batter sit in the pan for a few minutes before placing it in the oven. This brief resting period allows the ingredients to settle and promotes a more uniform rise and texture. You should also consider using parchment paper to line the baking pan for easier removal.

For a firmer brownie, bake for a few extra minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid drying out. Check for doneness using a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Remember, the brownies will continue to firm up as they cool.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Cottage Cheese Brownies:

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup cashew butter
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these steps for your brownie adventure:

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Ingredients

In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, cashew butter, cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.

Incorporate Chocolate Chips

If using, fold in the dark chocolate chips gently with a spatula.

Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy your guilt-free treat!

Let these brownies cool fully for the best texture.

Pro Tips

For an extra dose of flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or some chopped nuts to the brownie mix! Experimenting can yield delicious results.

Serving and Storing

These brownies can be served warm right out of the oven or at room temperature. They pair delightfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a protein boost. If you want to elevate the dessert further, consider drizzling a bit of melted dark chocolate on top before serving.

For storage, once completely cooled, cut the brownies into squares and place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week, but if you want to keep them longer, you can freeze individual pieces. Just let them thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to customize your brownies by adding in nuts, such as chopped walnuts or pecans, for an added crunch. You can also incorporate dried fruits, like cherries or cranberries, to introduce a sweet-tart flavor that beautifully contrasts the rich chocolate. Just remember to adjust the sweetness slightly if you add sweeter ingredients.

For a more decadent treat, experiment with adding different types of chocolate chips or even a layer of nut butter swirled into the batter. Dark chocolate chips offer a rich flavor, while milk chocolate adds a sweetness that pairs nicely with the cocoa's bitterness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works just as well without compromising the texture of the brownies.

→ Can I substitute cashew butter with another nut butter?

Absolutely! You can use almond butter or peanut butter as alternatives depending on your preference.

→ How should I store the leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Yes, these brownies freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.