Cottage Cheese Brownies with Coconut

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Coconut
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 2/3 cup sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup shredded coconut

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love experimenting with ingredients that add nutritional benefits, which is why I decided to make these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Coconut. Cottage cheese not only lends a delightful creaminess to the brownies but also packs in protein to keep you satisfied longer. The addition of coconut provides a sweet, tropical twist that complements the chocolate beautifully. They’re perfect for those times when I want something indulgent yet nutritious, allowing me to enjoy dessert without guilt.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:16:11.332Z

When I first tried combining cottage cheese with brownies, I was curious about the texture. The result was a rich, fudgy brownie that didn't compromise on taste. I found that using well-drained cottage cheese ensures the brownies remain moist without being overly wet. It also works beautifully in balancing the sweetness of the chocolate.

The coconut addition was a last-minute thought; I simply couldn't resist. Toasting the coconut flakes before mixing them into the batter enhances their flavor, making each bite a delightful experience that tantalizes the taste buds.

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor with a hint of coconut sweetness
Nutritious twist with added protein from cottage cheese
Deliciously fudgy texture that satisfies chocolate cravings

      

Understanding the Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is the unsung hero of these brownies, contributing not just moisture but also a boost of protein that traditional brownie recipes lack. Its creamy texture helps create a fudgy consistency while reducing the fat content significantly. If you're worried about curds, don’t be! When blended well with the wet ingredients, it becomes a smooth, homogenous batter that bakes beautifully without any cheese remnant being noticeable.

The choice of cottage cheese can also impact the final texture. I prefer using small-curd cottage cheese for a smoother consistency, but large curds work just fine if that’s what you have on hand. Just ensure you blend it thoroughly. If you want to alter the flavor slightly, consider using a flavored cottage cheese, like chive or onion, although that might take your brownies into an adventurous territory!

Perfecting the Coconut Addition

Shredded coconut not only elevates the flavor profile with its sweetness but also adds a delightful chewy texture that contrasts with the fudginess of the brownies. When incorporating coconut, I recommend toasting it lightly in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown to enhance its nutty aroma. This small step can dramatically transform the flavor, giving a subtle crunch that beautifully offsets the soft brownie texture.

If you're looking to cater to different dietary needs, feel free to substitute shredded coconut with almond flour for a lower-carb option, or omit it entirely for a simpler chocolate brownie. Just keep in mind that omitting coconut might result in a denser brownie, so you might want to reduce the flour slightly to maintain a pleasing, fudgy consistency.

Ingredients

Brownie Base

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup cocoa powder
2/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup shredded coconut

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Add Coconut

Fold in the shredded coconut gently into the brownie batter.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth it out. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing into squares. Enjoy your delicious Cottage Cheese Brownies!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, sprinkle some toasted coconut on top of the brownies before baking. This not only enhances the flavor but adds a beautiful texture.

Make-Ahead Options and Storage

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be made a day in advance, which actually allows the flavors to deepen as they sit. Once baked, allow them to cool completely in the pan, then cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to store at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to three days, but if you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for about a week. Just remember that chilling might slightly change their fudgy consistency.

For a longer storage option, you can freeze these brownies. Slice them into squares and wrap each piece tightly with plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them warm.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies come out too dry, it might be due to overbaking. Since ovens can vary, I recommend keeping an eye on them as they near the 25-minute mark. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs, but not wet batter. If you notice they are drying out, you can try reducing the baking time or adding a bit more cottage cheese during mixing to boost moisture levels.

Alternatively, if your brownies seem too gooey even after the suggested baking time, they might need a few more minutes in the oven. Every oven is unique, and an additional 3 to 5 minutes can make a significant difference. Just avoid the urge to bake them too long; the perfect brownie has a soft, fudgy interior with slightly set edges.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, you can use non-fat cottage cheese, but it may slightly affect the creaminess of the brownies.

→ How can I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.

→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can be added for extra crunch and flavor.

→ Is it possible to make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free.