Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon Sugar

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon Sugar
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection

I find myself returning to these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Cinnamon Sugar whenever I'm craving a sweet treat that's surprisingly guilt-free. The unique use of cottage cheese not only adds moisture but also gives the brownies a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the sweet cinnamon sugar topping. Each bite is a harmonious blend of rich chocolate and warm spices, making it one of my favorite ways to indulge without the usual heaviness. Trust me, these brownies will redefine your dessert experience!

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:32:57.537Z

When I first experimented with these Cottage Cheese Brownies, I wasn't sure how they would turn out. After baking, the aroma filled my kitchen, and the first bite confirmed my hopes: soft, fudgy brownies that felt light yet indulgent. The secret lies in the cottage cheese, which not only reduces calories but also boosts the protein content.

Each time I make these brownies, I find that letting them cool before slicing helps them firm up nicely. I also love sprinkling extra cinnamon sugar on top just before serving; it adds a delightful crunch that complements the moist interior and elevates the overall dessert experience!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor complemented by a hint of cinnamon
Creamy texture from the cottage cheese enhances the mouthfeel
Lightened-up dessert perfect for guilt-free indulgence

Understanding the Role of Cottage Cheese

In these brownies, cottage cheese serves more than just a low-fat alternative; it provides a unique moisture content that enhances the texture. Unlike traditional brownies that rely solely on butter or oil, cottage cheese introduces a creamy consistency without the added calories. This ingredient not only helps in achieving a deliciously fudgy brownie but also packs a protein punch, making your dessert feel more nourishing. When blended well, you won’t even notice the cottage cheese, ensuring the flavor is dominated by rich chocolate.

When mixing the cottage cheese into the batter, be sure to use a smooth blend for the best results. If you have a blender, this is a great time to use it; a smooth and creamy texture will help your brownies achieve that perfect, rich mouthfeel. Any lumps can disrupt the brownie’s consistency, leading to an uneven texture that detracts from the experience.

Perfecting the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

The cinnamon sugar topping is the crowning glory of these brownies, adding a sweet and slightly spicy contrast to the rich chocolate flavor. Mix the sugar and cinnamon thoroughly to ensure that every bite has a balanced taste. I recommend using a fine granulated sugar for a more even distribution; coarse sugar can create a gritty texture that takes away from the overall indulgence.

Applying the topping immediately after removing the brownies from the oven is crucial. This allows the sugar to adhere to the warm surface, melting just slightly to create a delightful crust. If you miss this step, the sugar may simply fall off when you slice into the cooled brownies. For a fun twist, consider adding a dash of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla to the sugar mix for additional flavor depth.

Serving and Storing Your Brownies

Once your brownies are cooled and sliced, consider serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. The warmth of the brownie pairs beautifully with the cold ice cream, while the cinnamon sugar adds a festive touch that is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. You can also drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce on top for an extra indulgent dessert experience.

For storage, keep your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before enjoying them again.

Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Brownies

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Mix the ingredients well to ensure a smooth batter.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a square baking pan (8-inch) or line it with parchment paper.

Prepare the Brownie Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sugar, cocoa powder, flour, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Bake the Brownies

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

Make the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

While the brownies are baking, mix the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

Add Topping and Cool

Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over the brownies as soon as they come out of the oven. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Serve your delicious brownies as a sweet treat alongside coffee or as a dessert delight.

Pro Tips

For an extra indulgent flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the brownie batter before baking!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies turn out too dry, it might be due to overbaking. Always watch the baking time closely, starting to check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean. Conversely, if they seem too gooey, it may be a signal that they need a couple more minutes in the oven, as oven temperatures can vary.

Another common issue can arise from the ingredients not being fully blended. If you notice streaks of cottage cheese in your brownies post-baking, it’s likely that the batter wasn’t mixed enough. For a smoother batter, try blending the cottage cheese separately until fully smooth before incorporating it with the other ingredients.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

If you’re looking to modify this recipe, scaling it up is straightforward. Simply double the ingredients, and bake in a 9x13 inch pan, adjusting the baking time accordingly. Keep an eye on them, as larger brownies may need an additional 5–10 minutes in the oven to ensure they are cooked through but not dry.

Conversely, if you're making a smaller batch, you can easily halve the recipe. Using a 4-inch square pan works well for this, but be sure to keep an eye on them as they’ll bake faster — start checking for doneness around the 15-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

Variations and Flavor Enhancements

To switch up the flavor profile, consider mixing in some chocolate chips or nuts for added texture. Mini chocolate chips can melt into the brownie, creating pockets of gooey chocolate, while chopped walnuts or pecans can provide a satisfying crunch. Just be cautious of your additions; if you're using large chunks, ensure they’re evenly distributed to avoid uneven baking.

For a festive twist, try adding zest from an orange or lemon into the brownie batter for a subtle citrus note that complements the chocolate and cinnamon. This bright flavor can elevate the dish and make it perfect for holiday gatherings. Alternatively, experimenting with flavored extract like almond or mint can introduce a delightful dimension to your brownies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute cottage cheese with Greek yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a great alternative, but it may alter the texture slightly.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Freeze them wrapped individually; they will last for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?

You can use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.