Cottage Cheese Raspberry Brownies

Name: Cottage Cheese Raspberry Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Ending Recipes

I absolutely love making these Cottage Cheese Raspberry Brownies! They beautifully combine the rich flavors of chocolate with the tartness of fresh raspberries. The addition of cottage cheese not only keeps them moist but also adds a subtle creaminess that balances perfectly with the sweetness. Whenever I serve these, people are always amazed that they contain cottage cheese. It’s such a creative way to sneak in protein while indulging my sweet tooth. These brownies are a delightful treat that I find myself baking again and again.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:33:27.334Z

As I experimented in the kitchen, I found that using cottage cheese in my brownie batter resulted in a unique texture that was both moist and fluffy. The first time I combined it with fresh raspberries, I was blown away by how well the flavors complemented each other. This little twist creates a delicious balance that is both indulgent and slightly healthier.

I also discovered that adding a touch of almond extract alongside the vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile. It might seem like a minor detail, but it’s those little things that make these brownies so memorable and satisfying!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh raspberry tang
Creamy texture from cottage cheese that makes them unique
An indulgent treat that's also surprisingly nutritious

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese serves as the secret ingredient in these brownies, contributing to their unique texture while enhancing nutritional value. The soft curds melt into the batter, keeping the brownies moist without the need for excessive butter or oil. This reduction in fat not only makes the brownies lighter but also offers a creamy consistency that contrasts beautifully with the dense chocolate base.

In addition to moisture, cottage cheese is a great source of protein, making these brownies a more satisfying treat. If you're not keen on cottage cheese, Greek yogurt can serve as a suitable alternative, though it may slightly alter the flavor. Just ensure that the yogurt is not too watery, or it could affect the brownie mixture.

Flavor Enhancements

The combination of vanilla and almond extracts adds depth to the flavor profile of the brownies. When mixing, you'll notice the enticing aroma that emerges—this is a sign you’re on the right path! For an extra twist, consider substituting the almond extract with a splash of orange or peppermint extract. Such variations can offer a refreshing spin on the traditional chocolate raspberry pairing.

The inclusion of fresh raspberries is also pivotal. Their tartness cuts through the richness of the brownie, creating a balanced dessert. If raspberries are out of season, frozen ones can effectively replace them. Just be sure to reduce the mixing time as frozen raspberries will break down more easily than fresh ones.

Baking and Storage Tips

Baking time can slightly vary based on your oven; I recommend starting with 25 minutes but check for doneness a few minutes before that. The brownies should pull away from the sides of the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to a dry texture.

Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan for the best cutting experience. I suggest using a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean cuts. If you're not planning to eat them right away, these brownies can store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for a week. They also freeze beautifully; wrap individual portions tightly for a quick sweet treat anytime.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Cottage Cheese Raspberry Brownies:

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup fresh raspberries
1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

With these ingredients ready, let's dive into making these delicious brownies!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Cottage Cheese Raspberry Brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Cottage Cheese

In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the blended cottage cheese mixture into the dry ingredients and mix well until fully combined. Gently fold in the raspberries and chocolate chips, if using.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy!

Remember to let the brownies cool before slicing, as this helps them set better!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Raspberry Brownies shine on their own, but consider serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. A light dusting of powdered sugar on top can elevate their presentation, making them perfect for gatherings.

For a sophisticated touch, drizzle a simple raspberry sauce over them. You can make this by simmering fresh raspberries with a bit of sugar and water until they break down into a sauce. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely splash of color to the plate.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies turn out too crumbly, it could be due to overbaking or insufficient wet ingredients. Consider reducing the baking time for future batches or ensuring the cottage cheese is blended very smoothly before mixing. This helps to keep the batter moist.

If you find the brownies are too dense, it may be beneficial to increase the baking powder or add an extra egg next time. This can help to lighten the texture, giving a more cake-like result while still maintaining that fudgy feel that makes brownies so delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, frozen raspberries work well, but they may add extra moisture to the batter. You might want to adjust the baking time slightly.

→ Is there a substitute for cottage cheese?

Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.