Cottage Cheese Brownies Gluten Free

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies Gluten Free
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup almond flour; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love these Cottage Cheese Brownies because they are both delicious and gluten-free! The incredible combination of rich chocolate and creamy cottage cheese creates a decadent brownie that feels indulgent but is surprisingly nutritious. Whenever I make these, I can't help but appreciate how simple they are to whip up. They are perfect for satisfying a chocolate craving without the heaviness of traditional brownies, and I love serving them to friends who are gluten-sensitive—they're always amazed at how moist and flavorful they are!

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:04:14.952Z

When I first experimented with using cottage cheese in brownies, I was taken aback by how creamy it made the texture. I was aiming for a healthier dessert that didn’t sacrifice taste, and these brownies ended up being a complete success. The cottage cheese adds a wonderful richness while keeping the brownies low in fat, and the secret is to blend it smooth before mixing it with your chocolate.

I also discovered that using a mix of cacao powder and dark chocolate gives these treats an intense chocolate flavor that really satisfies. It’s a delightful treat that I often bake when we're entertaining guests; it always elicits compliments and I love revealing the secret ingredient!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy cottage cheese
Gluten-free and guilt-free indulgence
Moist texture that satisfies every chocolate lover

      

The Magic of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is often overlooked in baking, yet in these brownies, it plays a crucial role in achieving the desired moisture and rich texture. Unlike traditional brownies that rely heavily on butter or oil, cottage cheese adds a creamy element while significantly reducing the fat content. This ingredient's protein boost not only makes the brownies more filling but also helps create a dense, fudgy consistency that chocolate lovers crave. When you blend cottage cheese, make sure it's smooth to avoid any lumps, which would affect the brownies' final texture.

Another important factor is the choice of cottage cheese. I prefer using full-fat cottage cheese for its creaminess and flavor, but low-fat alternatives can work as well. Always check for a fresh product, as older cottage cheese may lead to an off taste and alter the overall profile of your brownies. For a vegan option, you can try blending silken tofu as a substitute, though the flavor may differ slightly.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking these brownies to perfection relies on careful attention to time and temperature. Preheating your oven to the specified 350°F (175°C) ensures an even bake. I recommend using an oven thermometer to double-check your temperature—ovens can often miscalibrate. You should aim for a baking time of about 25 minutes; however, always perform the toothpick test towards the end of the baking time. A few moist crumbs clinging to the toothpick indicate that the brownies are perfectly done and will continue to firm up as they cool.

One common mistake is overbaking, which can lead to a dry texture, detracting from the brownies' moistened appeal. Watch for the edges to firm up and slightly pull away from the sides of the baking pan as a visual cue. If you notice golden edges but the center appears underbaked, don’t worry—these brownies set up beautifully as they cool, ensuring a gooey center without being soggy.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup almond flour
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix well and ensure all ingredients are combined.

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan

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

Blend the Cottage Cheese

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the cocoa powder, almond flour, baking powder, and salt.

Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the blended cottage cheese mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.

Bake

Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan before slicing into squares. Enjoy!

Drizzle with melted chocolate for extra decadence, if desired.

Pro Tips

Ensure the cottage cheese is blended well for a smooth batter. Experiment with different sweeteners based on your taste preferences.

Cooling and Serving Suggestions

After baking, let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This resting time is crucial, as it allows the brownies to firm up, making it easier to achieve clean cuts. If you're in a hurry, I sometimes place the pan in the refrigerator after about 10 minutes of cooling to expedite the process. Just be cautious not to chill them for too long, or they might become too firm to cut easily.

These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them further by serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of your favorite ice cream. Drizzling a bit of melted dark chocolate on top adds a decadent finish, and for a touch of freshness, a sprinkle of sea salt or a scattering of fresh berries can create a delightful contrast.

Storage and Freezing Tips

If you find yourself with leftover brownies (which can be rare!), they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, provided your kitchen isn’t too warm. For longer storage, these brownies freeze beautifully! Simply place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them in plastic wrap, then foil. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, allow them to thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours or microwave a square for about 15-20 seconds for that freshly-baked feel.

Feel free to adapt this recipe with mix-ins or toppings suited to your preferences. Nut lovers might consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter, while a splash of espresso powder can intensify the chocolate flavor. By experimenting with different chocolate chip varieties, like white chocolate or even a dairy-free option, you can tailor these brownies to fit your dietary needs or flavor cravings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of flour?

Yes, you can substitute the almond flour with other gluten-free options like coconut flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour.

→ How should I store these brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of honey?

You can use maple syrup or agave syrup as a substitute for honey in this recipe.