Cottage Cheese Brownies with Raspberries

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Raspberries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh raspberries

Highlighted under: Cozy Baking Recipes

I never thought cottage cheese could be the secret ingredient in a brownie recipe until I tried it! The result was incredibly moist and fudgy brownies, with a delightful burst of tartness from the raspberries. I love how this protein-packed version makes indulging feel a little less guilty. These brownies have quickly become a favorite in my household, and I'm excited to share this unexpected twist on a classic dessert.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:49:07.206Z

When I first brought cottage cheese into my baking, I was amazed at the texture it provided. These brownies emerged from the oven with a rich, deep chocolate color and a luscious feel that traditional recipes often miss. The key is to blend the cottage cheese until completely smooth, which ensures it incorporates well into the batter without any lumps.

The addition of fresh raspberries not only adds a lovely tartness but also a pop of color that brightens the brownie. To really enhance the flavors, I suggest using quality cocoa powder and letting the brownies cool before slicing—this really helps achieve those clean edges!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Cottage cheese for added protein and moisture
Fresh raspberries for a perfect tart contrast
Simple ingredients come together easily for a delicious treat

The Role of Cottage Cheese in Brownies

Cottage cheese serves as a key ingredient in these brownies, not only for its high protein content but also for the moisture it adds. When blended until smooth, it creates a rich base that helps achieve the fudgy texture we crave in brownies. This creamy consistency prevents the brownies from drying out, making them tender and delicious even days after baking.

Using cottage cheese also means you can enjoy a treat that feels indulgent without the heavy guilt that often accompanies traditional desserts. If you're concerned about taste, rest assured that once baked, the flavor of the cottage cheese is nearly undetectable, allowing the cocoa and raspberry to shine.

Working with Fresh Raspberries

Fresh raspberries not only provide a burst of tartness but also contribute vibrant color and a pop of flavor contrast in each bite. When folding in the raspberries, be gentle; this preserves their shape and ensures you get lovely whole pieces throughout the brownies. If you accidentally crush a few, that's okay, but aim to keep most intact for the best presentation.

If fresh raspberries are unavailable, you can substitute with frozen raspberries. Simply fold them in while still frozen to avoid excessive mushiness. However, keep in mind that they may release more moisture into the batter, slightly altering the texture of your brownies.

Cooling and Serving Tips

Cooling the brownies is crucial for getting the right texture. Allow them to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack; this helps prevent them from becoming soggy while still allowing them to set. Be careful when slicing; use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat edges.

For serving, consider dusting the brownies with powdered sugar for an elegant touch or pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also serve them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate the dessert experience even further.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh raspberries

Mix all ingredients well to ensure a smooth batter.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, blend the cottage cheese until smooth. Add cocoa powder, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Add Dry Ingredients

Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl. Gradually add this to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.

Fold in Raspberries

Gently fold in the fresh raspberries, being careful not to break them.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, slice and enjoy!

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top before serving, or add a scoop of ice cream to elevate this dessert to another level.

Storage and Freezing

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, though they’re usually best consumed within 24 hours for optimal freshness. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag; they can last for up to three months.

To thaw frozen brownies, simply leave them at room temperature for about an hour before serving, or microwave for 15-20 seconds. This will restore their fudginess and flavors without sacrificing quality.

Possible Variations

If you’re looking to experiment, try adding a bit of espresso powder or instant coffee granules to the batter. This addition enhances the chocolate flavor without making the brownies taste like coffee. You could also add nuts, such as chopped walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and richness.

For a bit of extra sweetness, consider drizzling caramel sauce on top before serving. You could also swap in other berries, like blueberries or strawberries, to create a different flavor profile while keeping the tartness balanced.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute, but it might change the flavor slightly.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I use frozen raspberries instead?

Yes, frozen raspberries work, but ensure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Try adding chopped nuts or a swirl of peanut butter into the batter for added texture and flavor.