Cottage Cheese Brownies with Maple Cinnamon

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Maple Cinnamon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup whole wheat flour; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Cozy Plate Creations

When I first tried making brownies with cottage cheese, I never expected the outcome to be this satisfying. The creamy texture and the subtle sweetness from maple cinnamon transform a classic treat into a healthier indulgence. I love how these brownies are not only moist but also rich in protein, making them a guilt-free dessert. Plus, the aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen is enough to draw anyone in! I'm excited to share this recipe with you; it's a delightful twist you won’t want to miss.

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:55:06.316Z

While experimenting in the kitchen one afternoon, I decided to swap traditional brownie ingredients for healthier ones, and using cottage cheese was a game changer. The rich flavor pairs beautifully with the maple cinnamon, creating a unique dessert experience. I was pleasantly surprised at how moist and fudgy the brownies turned out, ensuring no one misses the absence of extra fats from traditional recipes.

Another great thing about these brownies is that they come together quickly. I simply mix the wet ingredients, fold in the dry ones, and bake. The result is a treat that both satisfies my sweet tooth and keeps me energized. These cottage cheese brownies have quickly become a favorite in my household!

        Why You Will Love These Brownies
        Unexpected creaminess from cottage cheese that enhances the texture
Subtle sweetness from pure maple syrup, not overly sugary
A delightful spiced flavor from cinnamon that complements every bite
Perfect for a snack or dessert, offering a balance of nutrition and flavor

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Using cottage cheese in these brownies not only adds moisture but also boosts the protein content significantly. Unlike traditional brownies that use butter or oil, cottage cheese gives a creamy consistency while keeping the overall calorie count lower. It’s important to blend the cottage cheese smoothly with the maple syrup to ensure there are no clumps in the batter, as these could affect the texture of your brownies.

Cottage cheese also adds a subtle tanginess that can enhance the overall flavor profile of these brownies. If you're concerned about the texture, using a food processor can help you achieve a perfectly smooth mixture. This method ensures that the cottage cheese integrates seamlessly, allowing you to enjoy rich, fudgy brownies without feeling guilty.

Incorporating Maple Syrup

Using pure maple syrup instead of refined sugar not only sweetens these brownies naturally but also contributes a unique flavor. The depth of sweetness from maple syrup enhances the cocoa without overpowering it, resulting in a balanced treat. If you can’t find maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can be good substitutes, but they may alter the flavor slightly.

When measuring maple syrup, be sure to choose a grade that suits your taste—Grade A is milder while Grade B has a stronger flavor. I recommend opting for Grade A if you prefer a subtle sweetness that won’t overshadow the cocoa and cinnamon in the recipe.

Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies

When baking your brownies, keep an eye on the time to prevent overbaking. Since these brownies are moist due to the cottage cheese, they might not crisp around the edges like traditional brownies. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter, which is a perfect indicator that they’re done. Letting them cool in the pan also helps set the texture without making them too crumbly.

If you want to add a twist, consider incorporating nuts or dried fruits into the batter. Chopped walnuts or cranberries can complement the chocolate and maple flavors beautifully. However, if you prefer a nut-free option, sunflower seeds are a great alternative that will not compromise the taste or texture.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Mix together and bake for a delightful treat!

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking pan.

Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, blend together the cottage cheese and maple syrup until smooth.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine cocoa powder, whole wheat flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.

Combine and Add Chocolate Chips

Fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Stir in dark chocolate chips.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious cottage cheese brownies!

Serve as a healthy dessert option!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before baking or serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

Storage Tips

These cottage cheese brownies store well, making them ideal for meal prep. To maintain freshness, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for about a week without losing flavor.

If you want to freeze the brownies, cut them into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer, allowing you to enjoy a healthy treat anytime you crave something sweet.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these brownies warm, straight from the oven, or let them cool for a firmer texture. If you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top can elevate the dish. Add a sprinkle of additional cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup for an even more decadent dessert.

For a festive touch, consider adding chopped nuts or a pinch of sea salt on top before baking. This will create a beautiful contrast to the soft, sweet brownie texture and introduce a delightful crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for cottage cheese if desired.

→ How can I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Are these brownies gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by substituting the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to three months.