Quick Description:
These Protein Cottage Cheese Flourless Brownies are rich, fudgy, chocolatey, and surprisingly wholesome. Made without flour and boosted with protein from cottage cheese, they offer a guilt-free indulgence for chocolate lovers. Soft on the inside with a dense, brownie-like bite, these are perfect for families, kids, and anyone wanting a healthier dessert.
Servings and Timing:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 9 brownies
- WW Points: ~5 points per brownie (varies based on honey/maple and mix-ins)
Ingredients List:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup pure honey (or maple syrup; adjust sweetness as desired)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
-
Optional Mix-Ins:
- ¼ cup chocolate chips
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper. -
Blend Wet Ingredients
In a high-powered blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, honey, eggs, and vanilla.
Blend for 1–2 minutes until completely smooth and creamy with no visible cottage cheese lumps.
Scrape down the sides as needed. -
Add Dry Ingredients
Add cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to the blender.
Blend briefly until combined and a thick, uniform, dark batter forms.
Avoid overmixing. -
Fold in Mix-Ins (Optional)
If adding chocolate chips or walnuts, gently fold them into the batter. -
Bake
Pour batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until edges are set and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter). -
Cool Completely
Let brownies cool fully in the pan before removing.
Cooling is essential for a fudgy, cohesive texture.
Once cool, lift out using the parchment overhang and slice into 9 squares.
Additional Notes:
- Cooling fully is crucial for achieving the rich, fudgy texture.
- Use honey for a softer, sweeter flavor or maple syrup for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
- Mix-ins add texture but can be omitted for a lower-calorie version.
Dietary Info (per brownie, 9 total):
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Brief Introduction:
These flourless brownies are a favorite in many homes, offering classic brownie richness without the refined flour and heavy butter. Cottage cheese blends smoothly into the batter, creating unbelievable moisture and extra protein while keeping the recipe simple and wholesome. Great for kids, chocolate cravings, and anyone wanting a dessert that feels indulgent but aligns with high-protein eating.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide:
- Line and prepare the baking pan.
- Blend cottage cheese, honey, eggs, and vanilla until creamy.
- Add cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt; blend briefly.
- Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if desired.
- Bake until edges are set and center is moist but not wet.
- Cool completely before slicing for best texture.
Ingredient Details & Substitution Tips:
- Cottage Cheese: Use low-fat for fewer calories or full-fat for richer brownies.
- Honey/Maple Syrup: Reduce to ⅓ cup for a less sweet version.
- Cocoa Powder: Dark cocoa creates an even richer brownie.
- Mix-Ins: Walnuts add crunch; chocolate chips make them extra fudgy.
- Sweetener Swap: Use sugar-free syrup for lower sugar (texture may vary).
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions:
- Chocolate Lovers’ Version: Add 2 tbsp extra cocoa powder or sugar-free chocolate chips.
- Mocha Brownies: Add 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder to enhance chocolate depth.
- Frosted Version: Top with Greek yogurt chocolate frosting or sugar-free ganache.
- Serving Ideas: Serve warm with Greek yogurt, cottage cheese whip, or fruit.
Storage & Make-Ahead Information:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individually wrapped brownies for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in microwave for 10–15 seconds for a melty, gooey texture.
Optional Personal Story:
These brownies became a staple in my kitchen because they feel indulgent but are secretly healthier. The cottage cheese adds protein and moisture without changing the flavor, and they’re always a hit with kids and guests. They’re the kind of dessert you feel good about serving and even better about eating.