Cottage Cheese Brownies with Banana Mash

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Banana Mash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup whole wheat flour; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Baking Ideas

I am excited to share my take on brownies that brings a unique twist to the classic recipe. Cottage cheese and banana mash combine to create a moist and rich treat that not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also adds a healthy dose of protein and vitamins. The best part is that you can whip them up in under an hour! Whether I'm hosting friends or needing a quick dessert for myself, these brownies never disappoint.

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:40:52.727Z

When I first experimented with these Cottage Cheese Brownies, I was skeptical about mixing savory ingredients into such a classic dessert. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the rich texture and flavor! The cottage cheese not only adds protein but also contributes to the desired moistness. Each bite feels indulgent without being overwhelming, which is perfect for me.

One tip that really transformed these brownies for me was using overly ripe bananas. They add natural sweetness and enhance the overall flavor without the need for extra sugar. It’s a small detail, but it made a significant difference in taste. Trust me, your guests will be asking for the secret ingredient!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        A guilt-free dessert option rich in protein.
The perfect combination of creamy and sweet flavors.
Easy to make with simple ingredients.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The backbone of these Cottage Cheese Brownies lies in its unique combination of ingredients. Cottage cheese not only adds moisture but also brings a creamy texture and a good amount of protein to the brownies. It’s essential to use well-blended cottage cheese to avoid any lumps, which can disrupt the smooth consistency of your batter. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can substitute cottage cheese with Greek yogurt—just make sure it is unsweetened to maintain the intended sweetness of the brownies.

The ripe bananas play a critical role in contributing natural sweetness and act as a binding agent. Make sure they are fully ripe with plenty of brown spots, as this indicates they're sweet and ideal for mashing. If bananas aren’t available, applesauce or puréed dates can serve as suitable swaps in equal measurements, providing moisture and sweetness without altering the flavor too much.

Perfecting the Texture

To achieve the perfect brownie texture, ensure that you don’t overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Just combine until you can no longer see streaks of flour. Overmixing can lead to dense or tough brownies instead of the soft and fudgy outcome we desire. Additionally, the baking time is crucial; check for doneness around the 25-minute mark. The brownies should be set on the edges and slightly soft in the center, as they will firm up while cooling.

For added decadence, folding in chocolate chips not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also creates little molten pockets of chocolate throughout the brownies. If you're looking for a healthier twist, consider using dark chocolate chips or even chopped nuts for added texture and nutty flavors. Just keep in mind that nuts can affect the final texture, making it a little more crumbly.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9x9-inch baking pan.

Blend Ingredients

In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, mashed bananas, cocoa powder, honey, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour and remaining cocoa powder. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients.

Add Chocolate Chips

If desired, fold in the chocolate chips for added richness.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. It perfectly balances the sweetness!

Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be enjoyed on their own, but pairing them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate your dessert experience. The contrast between the warm brownies and the cold topping creates a delightful sensation. For a fancy touch, serve them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of fresh fruit, such as berries, that pair nicely with the chocolate flavor.

If you're looking for a unique serving option, consider cutting the brownies into bite-sized squares and arranging them on a platter with skewers for a fun party treat. This playful presentation encourages guests to indulge without feeling guilty, and you can easily garnish them with a dusting of powdered sugar, cocoa, or even shredded coconut for an extra flair.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies maintain their moisture well, making them great for make-ahead. You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just be aware that the baking time may vary slightly if the batter is cold when it goes into the oven. Once baked, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies. Make sure they are fully cooled, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply remove the desired number of brownies and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to revive their fudgy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese with something else?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for a similar texture and flavor.

→ How do 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 make these brownies vegan?

Yes, substitute the eggs with flax eggs and replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan version.

→ How do I know when the brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs, but not wet batter.