Cottage Cheese Brownies with Strawberry Pieces

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Strawberry Pieces
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection

I absolutely adore the unique twist that cottage cheese brings to brownies, and adding strawberry pieces takes these to another level of delight. The creamy texture of the cottage cheese blends beautifully with the rich chocolate, while the burst of fresh strawberries offers a refreshing contrast. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home, and I love that it satisfies those sweet cravings without being overly indulgent. Trust me, once you try these brownies, you'll find it hard to go back to regular ones!

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:47:35.197Z

When I first experimented with using cottage cheese in a brownie recipe, I was skeptical but hopeful. I replaced half the butter with blended cottage cheese to cut down on fat and add protein. Surprisingly, the texture turned out incredibly fudgy, and the taste was rich without being overly sweet. The addition of strawberries also brightened the flavor profile, making these brownies a perfect treat for any occasion.

To make these even more special, I recommend letting the brownies cool completely before slicing. This not only helps them hold their shape better but also enhances the chocolate flavor. Pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes this dessert to an entirely new level!

Why You Will Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor complemented by juicy strawberries
Creamy texture from cottage cheese that makes them unique
Healthier than traditional brownies without sacrificing taste

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of these brownies is undoubtedly the cottage cheese, which provides moisture and a creamy texture, while also lowering the overall fat content compared to traditional recipes. Blending it until smooth is crucial; any lumps could affect the brownie’s final consistency. Always opt for fresh, high-quality cottage cheese for the best results—this not only enhances the flavor but contributes to a more enjoyable texture in the finished product.

Fresh strawberries add a burst of natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate flavor. Make sure to choose ripe strawberries for optimal sweetness. If fresh strawberries aren't available, consider using frozen ones, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent adding excess moisture to the batter.

Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies

When it comes to baking the brownies, the key is to monitor them closely in the last few minutes. Ovens can vary, so check for doneness at the 20-minute mark. The brownies should be set but still a bit soft in the center. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean, which indicates they are perfect—this will ensure that the brownies remain fudgy rather than dry.

Allowing the brownies to cool before cutting is essential, as this helps them firm up and makes cutting easier. If you find they crumble when you cut them warm, that may indicate they weren't fully cooked or needed more rest time. For an elegant presentation, try dusting the cut brownies with powdered sugar before serving, or drizzle with melted chocolate for added indulgence.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you begin:

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to create these brownies!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delicious Cottage Cheese Brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well blended.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Mix Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Add Strawberries

Gently fold in the chopped strawberries into the batter.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!

Now, enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the strawberries with your favorite fruit, such as raspberries or blueberries, for a different flavor twist!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These cottage cheese brownies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator for about a week. If you want to prep them ahead of time, you can also freeze the unbaked batter; just be sure to place it in a well-sealed container. When you're ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adjusting for an additional 5-10 minutes if necessary.

To reheat brownies, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. This will revive the fudgy texture and make them feel freshly baked. Alternatively, you can warm them in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for 10-15 minutes, ensuring not to overbake.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a delightful serving experience, I love to pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The creamy toppings complement the chocolate and strawberries perfectly, creating a rich dessert that is sure to impress. Fresh mint leaves can also be added as a garnish for a touch of color and flavor contrast.

Feel free to experiment with additional mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for added texture. Adding a sprinkle of sea salt before baking can elevate the flavor by providing a beautiful contrast to the sweetness of the brownies. You might also try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free version while still maintaining the delicious taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

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

→ How should I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

→ Is it necessary to blend the cottage cheese?

Blending the cottage cheese makes it smoother and helps it incorporate better into the batter.