Cottage Cheese Brownies with Sea Salt

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Sea Salt
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Flaky sea salt, for topping

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love experimenting with healthier dessert options, and these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Sea Salt have become a favorite in my kitchen. The creaminess from the cottage cheese pairs perfectly with rich cocoa powder, yielding a fudgy brownie that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Every time I make these, I’m amazed at how quickly they disappear—especially when topped with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. It’s a delightful balance of sweet and salty that keeps guests coming back for more!

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:46:14.667Z

When I first tried making brownies with cottage cheese, I was skeptical about the outcome. To my surprise, the texture was incredibly moist and the flavor was rich without being overly sweet. I’ve discovered that using cottage cheese not only adds protein but also helps reduce the fat content, making them a healthier option.

One of my favorite tips is to allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing. This way, they hold together beautifully, and you get those perfect, clean edges that look impressive on any dessert table. The sprinkling of sea salt on top really enhances the chocolate flavor, creating a gourmet touch!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Fudgy texture that satisfies chocolate cravings
Protein-packed to keep you feeling full longer
A unique twist with the addition of sea salt

      

Ingredient Insights

The star of these brownies is undoubtedly the cottage cheese. When blended until smooth, it contributes a creamy texture that keeps the brownies moist without adding excessive fat. This ingredient also packs a protein punch, making the brownies more satisfying than your average dessert. Ensure you choose full-fat cottage cheese for the best results; it gives the brownies a richer flavor and texture.

Cocoa powder is essential for the chocolatey depth in these brownies. Opt for high-quality, unsweetened cocoa to achieve a deep, intense flavor. Remember, not all cocoa powders are created equal; Dutch-processed cocoa can provide a smoother taste, but regular cocoa lends a more robust chocolate profile. Experiment and see which you prefer for these fudgy delights.

Baking Tips

When mixing the batter, it’s important not to overmix once the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies with an undesired texture. Mix just until you no longer see flour streaks; a few lumps are fine. You want a glossy batter that’s smooth but still retains a bit of structure.

Pay close attention during the baking process. Every oven is different, and baking times can vary slightly. The brownies are done when the edges start to pull away from the pan, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. This ensures that your brownies are fudgy and not overbaked.

Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Brownies

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Flaky sea salt, for topping

Combine all ingredients effectively for the best results!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

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

Pour and Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool in the pan. After they cool completely, cut into squares and sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously unique brownies!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder. You can also experiment by adding nuts or chocolate chips for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Brownies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creaminess of the ice cream pairs seamlessly with the rich flavors of the brownies, creating a delicious contrast. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence for special occasions.

For a fun twist, serve these brownies with fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries. The tartness of the berries complements the chocolate beautifully and adds a refreshing touch. Alternatively, sprinkling crushed nuts on top before serving gives a nice crunch that balances the brownie’s fudgy texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare these brownies in advance, they store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. When stored properly, they maintain their fudgy texture without becoming dry. If you need them to last longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can stay fresh for up to a week.

For longer storage, freeze the brownies. Once cooled completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or on the counter for a couple of hours. Reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back some warmth before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, non-fat cottage cheese works well too, though it may slightly alter the texture.

→ What can I substitute for sugar?

You can use coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like Stevia if you're looking for a lower-calorie option.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.