Healthy • Fudgy • High-Protein • No Traditional Flour
Quick Description
These Cottage Cheese Protein Brownies are thick, rich, and ultra-fudgy with a creamy texture thanks to blended cottage cheese. Made without traditional flour, they use almond flour for a lower-carb option while still delivering a satisfying protein boost. Perfect for a healthy dessert, post-workout treat, or sweet snack that actually keeps you full.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 9 squares
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 22–28 minutes
- Total Time: ~35 minutes
Ingredients List
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup almond flour
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup maple syrup (or sugar-free syrup for lower carbs)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- Optional: ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
1. Blend the Base
Add the cottage cheese to a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth and creamy. This step ensures your brownies have a rich, silky texture without lumps.
2. Mix the Batter
Transfer the blended cottage cheese to a mixing bowl. Add eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
Stir in cocoa powder, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a thick, smooth batter forms. Fold in dark chocolate chips if using.
3. Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
4. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 22–28 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly soft for a fudgy texture.
5. Cool & Slice
Let brownies cool completely before slicing into 9 squares. They will firm up as they cool.
Nutrition (per square – approximate)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 8–10g
- Carbs: 10–12g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g (varies by sweetener)
Benefits
- High-Protein Dessert: Helps curb cravings and keeps you full longer.
- Lower-Carb Option: Almond flour keeps carbs lower than traditional flour.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free with almond flour.
- No Refined Flour: A healthier alternative to classic brownies.
- Fudgy Texture: Creamy cottage cheese makes them moist and rich.
Additional Notes
- For extra fudginess, slightly underbake and allow brownies to cool fully.
- For a sweeter version, increase maple syrup slightly or add sugar-free chocolate chips.
- For extra protein, add 1 scoop chocolate protein powder and reduce almond flour slightly.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein: Yes
- Low-Carb: Yes (with sugar-free syrup)
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Refined Flour-Free: Yes
Brief Introduction
If you love brownies but want something healthier and more filling, these Cottage Cheese Protein Brownies are a game changer. They taste indulgent, rich, and chocolatey, yet they’re packed with protein and made with better-for-you ingredients. Perfect for anyone trying to enjoy dessert without derailing their goals.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Blend Cottage Cheese until completely smooth.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients together until creamy.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients to create a thick batter.
- Bake Until Set but slightly soft in the center.
- Cool Fully before slicing for the best texture.
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Cottage Cheese: Provides moisture, protein, and a creamy texture. Full-fat gives richer brownies; low-fat works too.
- Almond Flour: Keeps brownies soft and low-carb. Can substitute oat flour if not low-carb.
- Maple Syrup: Natural sweetness. Use sugar-free syrup for fewer carbs.
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened for deep chocolate flavor.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Add chopped walnuts for crunch.
- Swirl in peanut butter before baking.
- Top with Greek yogurt for extra protein.
- Serve slightly warm with a few fresh berries.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze individual squares for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Microwave for 10–15 seconds for a gooey texture.
Optional Personal Story
I made these when I was craving chocolate but didn’t want a sugar crash afterward. I couldn’t believe how rich and satisfying they were. Now they’re my go-to “healthy brownie” that actually keeps me full instead of reaching for another snack 30 minutes later.
