Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnuts

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Hazelnuts whenever I crave something sweet yet slightly healthier. The cottage cheese adds a delightful creaminess that brings a unique twist to the traditional brownie texture. Plus, the crunch of hazelnuts elevates each bite, making it an indulgent treat that doesn’t leave me feeling guilty. I often enjoy these with a cup of coffee or serve them at gatherings where everyone appreciates a delicious dessert and is intrigued by the ingredients.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:10:09.600Z

I remember the first time I experimented with cottage cheese in a brownie recipe. The result was a stunning mix of rich chocolate flavor and a moist texture that I wasn’t expecting. This method works wonders because the cottage cheese provides moisture and protein without the heaviness that regular butter or oil brings. I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome!

In addition to the cottage cheese, adding chopped hazelnuts really brings out the depth of flavor. I lightly toast them for added crunch and richness, making each brownie a little piece of heaven. It’s now a go-to for when I want to impress friends with a unique dessert!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor with a surprising twist of cottage cheese
Crunchy hazelnuts for added texture and flavor
Indulgent yet slightly healthier than regular brownies

      

Understanding the Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese adds a unique creaminess to these brownies that is both surprising and delightful. This ingredient not only contributes moisture but also reduces the overall fat content compared to traditional butter-laden brownie recipes. When blended smoothly, the cottage cheese enhances the texture, creating a fudgy consistency that beautifully contrasts with the crunch of hazelnuts. To achieve the best results, choose a smooth, well-blended cottage cheese without excess liquid, as this will prevent the brownies from becoming too watery or dense.

It's essential to blend the cottage cheese well with the sugar and eggs to eliminate any lumps before incorporating the dry ingredients. Lumps can affect the final texture of your brownies, leading to uneven baking or a grainy mouthfeel. Use a food processor or a hand mixer to ensure a silky-smooth mixture, which will create a lovely uniformity in the finished product.

Choosing and Preparing Your Hazelnuts

Using fresh, toasted hazelnuts can elevate the flavor profile of your brownies significantly. The roasting process brings out their natural oils and enhances their nutty aroma. To toast hazelnuts, simply spread them on a baking sheet and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quickly. Once toasted, let them cool and chop them to your desired size, as larger pieces will offer a more pronounced crunch.

If you're looking for a nut-free option or have allergies to hazelnuts, you can substitute them with walnuts or chocolate chips. This will still give you a delightful texture and flavor without compromising the integrity of the brownies. Ensure to adjust the amounts according to your preference, and if using chocolate chips, consider the sweetness level to maintain balance in the brownie mix.

Ingredients

Ingredients for the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy, making sure there are no lumps.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. Stir in the chopped hazelnuts.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a few chocolate chips to the brownie batter. Also, serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes for a wonderful dessert experience!

Tips for Perfectly Baked Brownies

When baking these brownies, checking for doneness is crucial. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs attached. If it comes out with wet batter, give it a few more minutes. Keep in mind that the brownies will continue to cook slightly even after being removed from the oven, so it's better to take them out a touch early than risk drying them out.

For a glossy top and crackly texture, you can mix the sugar and eggs vigorously until the mixture lightens in color. This process incorporates air, which helps to create that desirable top layer. Don't be discouraged if yours doesn't turn out perfectly; the taste will still be phenomenal, and practice makes perfect!

Storing and Freezing Tips

To keep your Cottage Cheese Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, which can prolong their freshness by an additional week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving to enjoy the full depth of their flavors.

If you want to make these brownies ahead of time, they freeze beautifully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. These can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bring them back to room temperature before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

→ What if I don't have hazelnuts?

Feel free to replace hazelnuts with walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips for another delicious twist!

→ How should I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Yes, you can freeze baked brownies for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing them in the freezer.