Cottage Cheese Brownies with Raspberries

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Raspberries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh raspberries

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Raspberries because they are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. The combination of creamy cottage cheese and tangy raspberries creates a rich, flavored brownie that's both light and satisfying. I enjoy baking them for gatherings, where they never fail to impress friends and family. You won't believe how easy it is to whip them up, and the result is decadently moist brownies that taste indulgent yet are surprisingly healthy.

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:13:08.771Z

During my first attempt at making these brownies, I was pleasantly surprised by the moist texture that the cottage cheese provides. It keeps them rich without the heaviness usually associated with traditional brownies. After experimenting with the amount of raspberries, I found just the right balance that not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color.

One tip I discovered is to fold the raspberries gently into the batter to avoid breaking them apart completely. This way, you get surprises of juicy fruit with every bite. Trust me, it makes a world of difference in both taste and presentation!

        Why You Will Love These Brownies
        Rich brownie flavor complemented by luscious raspberries
Creamy texture from cottage cheese makes them unique
Healthy twist that satisfies sweet cravings guilt-free

      

Baking with Cottage Cheese

Using cottage cheese in brownies introduces a surprising creaminess and helps reduce the overall fat content compared to traditional recipes. This ingredient not only adds moisture but also contributes protein, making these brownies a more balanced treat. Be sure to choose a smooth, well-blended cottage cheese to avoid any clumps in the final batter, as this can affect the texture of your brownies.

For the best results, strain your cottage cheese in a fine-mesh sieve if it appears watery. This can enhance the consistency, ensuring the brownies achieve that rich, fudgy texture that everyone loves. Remember, a little extra attention during this step can elevate the final product significantly, creating a dense brownie that's full of flavor.

Raspberry Incorporation Techniques

When folding in the raspberries, it's crucial to do so gently to preserve their integrity. Over-mixing can lead to a pink swirl in your brownies, which, while aesthetically pleasing, might provide an uneven distribution of fruit. Aim to fold until just incorporated, leaving some raspberries whole for bursts of flavor in every bite. Choosing fresh raspberries is key as frozen berries can release excess moisture, altering the brownie texture.

If fresh raspberries are out of season, consider using freeze-dried raspberries. They not only maintain their vibrant flavor but also eliminate the moisture problem. To use them, simply pulse the freeze-dried raspberries in a blender to break them into smaller pieces before incorporating them into the batter. This can add a delightful crunch while preserving the fruit's tartness.

Cooling and Storing Your Brownies

After baking, allowing your brownies to cool for at least 10 minutes in the pan is vital. This step helps them set properly, making them easier to cut into neat squares. If you attempt to cut them too soon, they may crumble and fall apart. Utilize a sharp knife, which can also be run under hot water and dried to achieve cleaner edges.

For storage, keep the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze them for about three months. To freeze, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain some of that fresh-baked softness.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious brownies:

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh raspberries

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your brownies:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Blend the Base

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.

Fold in Raspberries

Gently fold in the fresh raspberries, taking care not to break them apart.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream for a delicious treat!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some dark chocolate chips or nuts into the batter.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different fruits in this brownie recipe. Chopped walnuts or dark chocolate chips can be added for extra texture and flavor. If you want to amp up the chocolate taste, consider adding an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder, but be cautious not to overpower the delicate raspberry notes that balance the overall flavor.

You can also swap out the sugar for alternatives like coconut sugar or stevia for a lower glycemic option. Just note that some substitutes might alter the texture slightly, so adjustments in liquid may be necessary.

Serving Suggestions

These delightful brownies can be served warm, perhaps alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert experience. Drizzling a bit of raspberry coulis on top can enhance the presentation and flavor profile, making them a perfect centerpiece for gatherings.

For a lighter option, try dusting them with powdered sugar and serving with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt. The tanginess of the yogurt complements the sweetness of the brownies and adds an extra layer of creaminess.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your brownies turn out too dense, it might be because of overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Ensure you measure the flour correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife, rather than scooping directly from the bag. This can prevent packing too much flour and affecting the brownie texture.

On the flip side, if your brownies are too dry, it may be due to overbaking. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes, and use the toothpick test as a guide. It should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, rather than completely clean.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese with Greek yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt can work as a good substitute for a similar creamy texture.

→ What can I use instead of sugar?

You can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute to make these brownies healthier.

→ How should I store the 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?

Yes, they freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.