You may have noticed that cottage cheese is having a major moment. And these viral cottage cheese brownies from TikTok are the perfect example of why. Blending seamlessly into desserts, cottage cheese adds a boost of protein without sacrificing flavor or texture. These brownies are not only delicious but also so easy to make in just 30 minutes — and each serving is only 75 calories with 6.5 grams of protein! Whether you’re a dessert lover or just looking for a healthier treat, this high-protein dessert is a must-try. Let’s make cottage cheese brownies.
What are the viral cottage cheese brownies?
There are many different types of high-protein brownies out there. So, what makes the viral cottage cheese brownies different? To start, the addition of cottage cheese adds numerous benefits. Besides protein, it is also a great source of calcium as well as good for digestion. Plus, it’s low in calories and carbs, which can help in weight loss efforts. Additionally, they don’t include flour, gluten or sugar. But don’t worry, you’ll still get a rich, fudgy and chocolatey bite. Watch the Instagram video below from @mattsfitchef:
Want more high-protein desserts? Try our Cottage Cheese Cookie Dough and Cottage Cheese Chocolate Pudding.
Tips for perfecting cottage cheese brownies
As with any viral recipe, sometimes it can be tricky to copy exactly what you see in a 60-second video. Here are some tips I used to ensure success:
1. Substitute ingredients
While you only need four ingredients, you can customize the recipe to your liking. A ½ tsp. of baking powder will give them rise, coffee or chocolate chips will enhance the chocolatey flavor and vanilla extract makes everything taste better. You can also replace your cocoa with a scoop of chocolate protein powder for even more protein.
2. Use the right cottage cheese
I recommend using full-fat cottage cheese for the richest flavor and best texture. The difference in calories isn’t significant compared to lower fat alternatives, but you can still use them if desired.
3. Adjust the sweetness level
If you have a bigger sweet tooth than this recipe (like me), taste and add in more monk fruit sweetener as needed.
4. Eat it cold
I found that unlike cakey brownies, these were best enjoyed cold after chilling in the fridge — it tasted just like rich chocolate fudge. But you can also microwave them if you prefer a warm brownie.
Easy cottage cheese brownies recipe
I followed the above recipe from Matts Fit Chef and added some dark chocolate chips for a bit more indulgence.
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup cottage cheese
- 1 large egg
- ½ scant cup cocoa powder
- ⅓ cup and 1 Tbs. Monk fruit sweetener (or another granular sweetener)
- Optional: ½ tsp. baking powder, ½ tsp. coffee, a dash of salt, chocolate chips, chopped nuts
Directions:
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Preheat the oven to 350°F, then line a 7-inch x 7-inch brownie pan with parchment paper.
- Add to a blender the cottage cheese, egg, cocoa powder and granular sweetener. Optionally, add baking powder, coffee powder and a pinch of salt. Blend until all ingredients are combined and smooth.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared pan, and optionally sprinkle with chocolate chips or mix-ins. Bake for 22-30 minutes. Let the brownies cool completely at room temperature before slicing.
Storage instructions
Once cooled, seal your cheese brownies (or any leftovers) in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to four days. They can also keep in the freezer for up to three months.
