Cottage Cheese Brownies with Strawberry Pieces

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Strawberry Pieces
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 9 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries

Highlighted under: Classic Meals

I absolutely love these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Strawberry Pieces! The combination of rich chocolate and creamy cottage cheese creates a delightful texture that's hard to resist. Plus, the fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor that elevates each bite. I was pleasantly surprised to discover how seamlessly cottage cheese can fit into a dessert recipe, making it healthier without sacrificing taste. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or indulging during a cozy night in, these brownies have quickly become a favorite in my kitchen.

Created by

Xenia Radcliffe

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:44:37.383Z

When I decided to experiment with adding cottage cheese to brownies, I had my doubts. However, the result exceeded my expectations! The brownies turned out surprisingly moist and decadent, and the cottage cheese lent a unique creaminess that made them feel indulgent yet light.

One of my favorite tips is to use fresh strawberries that are in season, as they provide the perfect sweetness and tartness to balance the rich chocolate flavor. Ensuring that the strawberries are evenly distributed throughout the batter really enhances the overall experience!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor complemented by juicy strawberry pieces
Creamy texture from cottage cheese that melts in your mouth
Healthier alternative to traditional brownies without compromising on taste

      

Understanding the Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese plays a crucial role in these brownies, contributing to their unique creamy texture and moisture without the added fat typically found in butter or oil. The protein in cottage cheese not only enhances the nutritional profile of these brownies but also helps create a denser, fudgier treat. When blended, it smooths out the batter, ensuring a consistent texture throughout, making every bite rich and satisfying while avoiding an overly cake-like outcome.

It's important to use well-drained cottage cheese for best results. If you find it too wet, you can drain it further using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. This step is crucial to prevent the brownies from becoming too soggy. I recommend using a full-fat cottage cheese for a richer flavor and creamier texture, but low-fat options are acceptable if you’re looking to reduce calories. Experimenting with different brands may also yield different flavors, so don’t hesitate to try a few!

Choosing and Preparing Strawberries

Fresh strawberries add not only delightful flavor bursts but also natural sweetness that balances the rich cocoa. When selecting strawberries, look for vibrant, firm berries that are free of bruises. It’s best to wash them gently under cold water and dry them thoroughly before chopping, as excess moisture can affect the brownies' texture. I prefer chopping strawberries into larger pieces, about a quarter-inch, to create juicy pockets within the brownie, but you can adjust according to your preference.

If fresh strawberries aren't available, you can substitute with frozen strawberries; just ensure they are fully thawed, drained, and pat dry to avoid excess moisture. Diced dried strawberries could also work in a pinch, although the texture will differ. Keep in mind that they won’t provide the same juicy burst as fresh or thawed varieties but can still add appealing sweetness.

Storing and Serving Your Brownies

Once baked, let your brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for optimal texture. If you store them in an airtight container at room temperature, they can last for about three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Cut the cooled brownies into individual squares, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature, or pop them in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a warm treat.

These cottage cheese brownies can be served on their own or topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist. A light dusting of powdered sugar on top not only adds a decorative flair but also extra sweetness. You can also experiment with toppings such as crushed nuts or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup chopped fresh strawberries

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the wet ingredients

In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped strawberries.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Pro Tips

For an extra indulgence, serve these brownies with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Customizing Your Brownies

Feel free to customize these brownies with additional flavorings or ingredients. For instance, adding a teaspoon of espresso powder can heighten the chocolate flavor without making the brownies taste like coffee. If you're in the mood for something nutty, try folding in half a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans along with the strawberries. Just ensure that you adjust the mixing time so you don’t over-mix the batter and compromise the texture.

For a more decadent experience, consider swirls of peanut butter or almond butter. Simply drop spoonfuls onto the top of the batter and use a knife to create a marbled effect. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of your brownies. Another fun twist is incorporating a teaspoon of orange zest, which can add a refreshing citrus note that complements the chocolate and strawberries beautifully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies come out too dry, it's likely that they were baked a minute too long. To avoid this, start checking for doneness a few minutes early, as oven temperatures can vary. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, not completely clean. For extra fudginess, you might consider slightly reducing the baking time or the amount of flour in the recipe.

On the other hand, if you find the brownies too gooey or wet, this could be due to inadequate baking or too much moisture from the strawberries or cottage cheese. Make sure to measure the cottage cheese after draining, and if using frozen strawberries, ensure they are thoroughly thawed and dried. If you're still experiencing issues, consider reducing the amount of oil slightly; too much fat can lead to a overly greasy texture.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're looking to scale the recipe for a larger crowd, this brownie recipe can easily be doubled. Simply prepare the batter in a larger pan, such as a 13x9 inch baking dish, and adjust the baking time accordingly, increasing it by 5-10 minutes. Ensure to test for doneness with a toothpick before the timer goes off, as larger volumes may extend cooking time.

However, if you want to make a smaller batch, you can cut the recipe in half and use a smaller baking dish, like a 6x6 inch pan. Keep in mind that the baking time may decrease, so begin checking for doneness a bit earlier. Adjustments can also be made with the ingredients, such as adding less sweetener or chocolate if you prefer a less rich brownie.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well in this recipe, but may slightly alter the texture.

→ How should I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I substitute the strawberries with another fruit?

Absolutely! You can use raspberries or chopped bananas for a different flavor profile.

→ Is it possible to make these brownies gluten-free?

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