Cottage Cheese Brownies with Raspberries

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Raspberries
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; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh raspberries; Powdered sugar for dusting; Extra raspberries for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I have to tell you about my latest baking adventure: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Raspberries. These brownies catch me off guard with their rich flavor and luscious texture, and I love how the tangy raspberries complement the chocolate so beautifully. It’s the combination of cottage cheese and cocoa that transforms these treats into something unique, offering a delightful surprise. Every bite invites you to savor the moment, and I’m always left craving more after I share them with friends and family.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:58:14.966Z

When I first decided to make brownies using cottage cheese, I was skeptical about how they would turn out. To my surprise, they not only turned out decadent but also incredibly moist, thanks to the cottage cheese providing creaminess without overwhelming sweetness. The walnuts add a lovely crunch, and the raspberries deliver a perfect burst of tartness that balances the rich chocolate.

One of my favorite moments was watching my friend take a bite. The smile on their face said it all! This method really works because the cottage cheese acts as a secret ingredient, allowing you to indulge without the guilt often associated with traditional brownies. Trust me, you won’t miss the extra fat!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh raspberries
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Healthy twist using cottage cheese

      

The Unique Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese plays a pivotal role in these brownies, adding not only creaminess but also moisture that sets them apart from traditional recipes. The mild flavor of the cottage cheese allows the cocoa to shine through while contributing a protein boost. This makes them a guilt-free treat that you can enjoy without compromising on taste.

When using cottage cheese, be sure to blend it thoroughly until smooth. This step is crucial, as clumps can lead to an uneven texture. If you prefer, you can opt for low-fat cottage cheese as a healthier alternative, but remember that higher-fat varieties provide a richer texture.

Perfecting the Raspberry Swirl

Raspberries not only add a burst of flavor but also a stunning visual element to the brownies. For best results, opt for fresh raspberries—their tartness beautifully balances the sweetness of the chocolate. Avoid using frozen raspberries, as they can break down during mixing and lead to a soggy batter.

When folding the raspberries into the batter, do so gently. This will help to keep them whole and prevent overmixing, which can lead to a muddy appearance. You want pockets of raspberries throughout each brownie to provide delightful bursts of flavor with every bite.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once baked, these brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, where they will last up to a week. If you want to freeze the brownies, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to three months.

To enhance the experience, pair these brownies with a dollop of whipped cream or serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess complements the chocolate and raspberry flavors perfectly, making it a delightful dessert for any gathering.

Ingredients

Brownie Base

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh raspberries

Optional Topping

Powdered sugar for dusting
Extra raspberries for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, cocoa powder, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.

Fold in Raspberries

Gently fold in the fresh raspberries, being careful not to over-mix.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Cut into squares and serve, optionally dusting with powdered sugar and garnishing with extra raspberries.

Pro Tips

These brownies are best enjoyed warm, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to three days. You can also experiment by adding nuts or other fruits for variety.

Adjusting for Dietary Needs

For those who are looking for a gluten-free alternative, simply replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. This substitution will not alter the flavor significantly but will cater to gluten-sensitive diners without compromising the brownie’s fudgy texture.

If you're among those who avoid refined sugars, try using a sugar substitute like coconut sugar or a natural sweetener such as agave syrup. Just remember that liquid sweeteners may alter the batter's consistency slightly, so adjust other liquids accordingly.

Flavor Variations to Try

For a fun twist on these brownies, experiment with different types of fruit. Cherries or diced strawberries can replace the raspberries for a varying flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust sugar levels based on the sweetness of the fruit used, especially if you’re choosing sweeter options.

Another great idea is to add a sprinkle of sea salt or a pinch of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor. A little bit of instant coffee can really elevate the rich taste of cocoa, creating a deeper, more complex flavor in your brownies.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your brownies turn out too dry, this may be a result of overbaking. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking, removing them from the oven as soon as a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. They continue to cook slightly as they cool.

On the other hand, if they come out too gooey, it might mean they need a little more time in the oven. Each oven is different, so be prepared to adjust baking time slightly to achieve that perfect, fudgy consistency without being underbaked.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese with something else?

For a similar texture, you can use Greek yogurt, but it will alter the flavor slightly.

→ How can I make these brownies gluten-free?

You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Do I have to use raspberries?

No, you can substitute with other fruits like chopped strawberries or blueberries depending on your preference.

→ Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day before and store them in an airtight container.