Cottage Cheese Brownies with Walnuts

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Walnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup walnut halves, chopped

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I can’t believe how easy and satisfying these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Walnuts are to make. With a rich, fudgy texture and the nutty crunch of walnuts, they have quickly become my go-to dessert. The secret ingredient, cottage cheese, not only adds moisture but also boosts the protein content, making them a healthier indulgence. They are perfect for a sweet treat after dinner or when I'm craving something chocolatey. Trust me, you won't miss the traditional ingredients in these delightful brownies!

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:34:13.031Z

When I first thought of incorporating cottage cheese into brownies, I was skeptical. However, after several trials, I was amazed at how it transformed the texture and flavor. The end result is a luscious brownie that is surprisingly light yet decadent, perfect for satisfying that chocolate craving without the guilt.

One small tip that I discovered is to blend the cottage cheese until smooth before adding it to the batter. This ensures that there are no lumps and that the brownies turn out velvety smooth. Plus, the addition of walnuts gives every bite a delightful crunch!

        Why You Will Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy walnuts
Moist and fudgy texture thanks to cottage cheese
A healthier option that satisfies sweet cravings

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Using cottage cheese in brownies not only enhances the moisture content but also elevates the nutritional profile. The protein-rich cottage cheese adds a creamy texture, making the brownies fudgier without the need for excessive fats. Be sure to blend it thoroughly until smooth; any lumps can impact the final texture. This ingredient substitution allows you to enjoy the classic brownie experience while feeling good about indulging in a dessert that’s a touch healthier.

If you're short on cottage cheese, Greek yogurt can serve as a good alternative. It provides a similar creamy consistency and is rich in protein. However, keep in mind that Greek yogurt has a tangier flavor profile that may alter the final taste slightly. Adjust the sugar to balance out the acidity if you choose this substitution.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the perfect fudgy texture in these brownies is all about mixing technique. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined, and resist the urge to overmix. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to a cake-like texture instead of the desired fudginess. Look for a batter that is thick and slick but still spreads easily in the pan.

When baking, keep an eye on the time; the brownies should be taken out when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean. This ensures they remain soft and fudgy rather than drying out in the oven. If you prefer a slightly gooey center, you can reduce the baking time by 2–3 minutes, but be cautious not to underbake them too much.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract

Add-ins

1 cup walnut halves, chopped

Make sure to measure each ingredient accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until thoroughly combined.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

Add Walnuts

Fold in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Serve these brownies warm or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top of the brownies right before serving for a delightful contrast.

Storage and Serving

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, consider refrigerating them where they can last for about a week. You can also freeze the brownies; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil. They will maintain their texture for up to three months. To serve, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about an hour before enjoying.

For a delightful serving idea, enjoy the brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. A sprinkle of sea salt on top can enhance the chocolate flavor beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a layer of your favorite nut butter between the brownie layers before baking for a delicious twist.

Variations to Try

Don't hesitate to get creative with these brownies! You can easily switch out the walnuts for other nuts like pecans or almonds, or even add a mix of chocolate chips for extra richness. For a hint of spice, consider folding in some cinnamon or espresso powder. These additions can complement the chocolate flavor marvelously without overpowering it.

If you're looking for a vegan option, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water as a binding agent. Use a plant-based oil and dairy-free chocolate chips to keep the brownies vegan-friendly. Adjust baking time as necessary, since different ingredients can slightly alter the cooking process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

While cottage cheese works best for the texture, you could experiment with ricotta, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes! Cut the brownies into squares, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of walnuts?

Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans, chocolate chips, or even omit nuts altogether if you prefer.