Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnuts

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped hazelnuts

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnuts as they strike the perfect balance between rich flavor and healthier ingredients. The cottage cheese adds a unique creaminess while keeping the brownies moist and dense, making it a delightful treat without the guilt. Combined with the crunch of hazelnuts, they’re simply irresistible. Whether I’m having a cozy family gathering or just indulging myself, these brownies never fail to impress. I also find them easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion!

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:34:11.824Z

When I first decided to incorporate cottage cheese into brownies, I was unsure how they’d turn out. To my delight, they turned out to be a fabulous balance of indulgence and nutrition. The cottage cheese not only keeps the brownies moist but also lends a surprising depth of flavor. I’m always excited to see the reactions of family and friends when they take that first bite.

To enhance the flavor profile, I add chopped hazelnuts, which provide a delightful crunch and nutty richness. I’ve experimented with different nuts, but hazelnuts become the star of the show here. They add an unexpected twist and elevate the simplicity of brownies into something incredibly gourmet!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor with a wonderful nutty crunch
Moist and creamy texture thanks to cottage cheese
Perfect for a healthier dessert option without sacrificing taste

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Using cottage cheese in brownies might seem unusual, but it plays a crucial role in their structure and flavor profile. Blending the cottage cheese until smooth ensures that it incorporates seamlessly into the batter, providing moisture without the extra fat found in traditional butter. The protein content from the cottage cheese makes these brownies more satisfying, allowing you to enjoy a small piece and feel content, rather than overindulging.

Another benefit of cottage cheese is its ability to balance out the sweetness of the honey or maple syrup. As the brownies bake, the slightly tangy flavor of the cheese pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate, resulting in a complex flavor that satisfies any chocolate craving. Make sure to blend the cottage cheese thoroughly; any lumps can lead to an uneven texture in your final product.

Perfecting the Brownie Texture

Achieving the ideal brownie texture is all about mixing the batter correctly. When combining the ingredients, it's essential to mix until just combined—over-mixing can lead to dense, tough brownies rather than the soft, fudgy texture we desire. As you fold in the hazelnuts, do so gently to avoid deflating the batter. You want those crunchy pieces evenly spread throughout, adding a delightful contrast to the creamy brownie base.

Keep an eye on the baking process; brownies can go from perfect to overbaked very quickly! Start checking for doneness at 25 minutes. The brownies are ready when the edges are set, but the center should still be slightly soft. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating that the brownies will continue to cook slightly as they cool.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnuts

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped hazelnuts

Make sure to use quality cocoa powder for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, cocoa powder, honey, melted coconut oil, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Add Hazelnuts

Fold in the chopped hazelnuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares and enjoying!

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional chopped hazelnuts on top before baking for a beautiful presentation.

Storing and Serving

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you're planning to make them ahead of time for an event, they freeze exceptionally well. Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a quick warm-up.

For a special serving twist, consider topping your brownies with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of ice cream. The creaminess complements the dense brownies perfectly. You could also drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for added flavor and aesthetic.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to customize the nuts in this recipe! While hazelnuts add a wonderful crunch, you can substitute walnuts or pecans if you prefer. You could also mix in chocolate chips for an extra layer of chocolate flavor, or replace a portion of the cocoa powder with peanut butter for a nutty twist. If you're avoiding sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, ripe bananas or unsweetened applesauce could work as great alternatives, although you'll need to adjust the baking time slightly due to the added moisture.

For a gluten-free version, ensure that you're using a certified gluten-free cocoa powder and double-check your other ingredients. The recipe is naturally gluten-free due to the absence of flour, making it an excellent choice for gluten-sensitive diners. Experimenting with various flavor extracts, like almond or orange, can also bring a fun layer of taste to your brownies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or silken tofu for a similar creamy texture.

→ How can I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

→ Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes for hazelnuts.

→ Are these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, these brownies can be gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free oats or skip any flour.