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Protein Cottage Cheese Brownies Recipe

4.6 from 147 reviews

These Protein Cottage Cheese Brownies are a delicious and healthier twist on classic brownies. Made with cottage cheese for added protein and moisture, almond flour for a gluten-free base, and optional chocolate protein powder for an extra boost, these brownies are fudgy, rich, and perfect for a snack or dessert. Sweetened naturally with maple syrup and applesauce, they combine indulgence with nutrition in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Base

  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup almond flour (or oat flour)
  • ⅓ cup chocolate protein powder (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¾ cup cottage cheese, blended smooth
  • ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
  • ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ⅓ cup dark chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
  2. Blend cottage cheese: Place the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth with no visible curds, ensuring a creamy texture for the brownies.
  3. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the unsweetened cocoa powder, almond flour, optional chocolate protein powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  4. Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the smooth cottage cheese, eggs, maple syrup or honey, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract together until thoroughly mixed.
  5. Combine wet and dry mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and keep the batter fudgy.
  6. Fold in chocolate chips: Add the ⅓ cup dark chocolate chips and fold them into the batter evenly.
  7. Spread batter in pan: Transfer the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle extra dark chocolate chips on top if desired.
  8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
  9. Cool and chill: Allow the brownies to cool for at least 15 minutes in the pan. For cleaner slices, chill the brownies in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cutting.

Notes

  • You can omit the protein powder if you prefer; the brownies will still hold together well and remain fudgy.
  • Store the brownies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
  • These brownies freeze well for up to 2 months, making them ideal for meal prep or snacks.
  • This recipe is great for a lighter dessert with a good balance of protein and sweetness.

Keywords: protein brownies, cottage cheese brownies, gluten free brownies, healthy brownies, high protein dessert, fudgy brownies, chocolate brownies