Cottage Cheese Brownies with Blueberries
Highlighted under: Soft Kitchen
I absolutely love making these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Blueberries because they are the perfect blend of sweetness and nutrition. The creamy texture derived from cottage cheese creates a unique base that elevates the brownies to a new level. Incorporating fresh blueberries not only adds beautiful color but also infuses each bite with a burst of fruity flavor. Plus, this recipe is a great way to sneak in some protein without compromising on taste. They’ve quickly become a favorite treat in our household, and I’m sure they will be in yours too!
When I first tried combining cottage cheese with brownie batter, I was a bit skeptical. However, the results blew my mind! The cottage cheese gives the brownies a fudgy, moist texture that is simply irresistible. I also love adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking to enhance the flavor of the chocolate and blueberries.
My family and friends rave about these brownies at gatherings, and they never suspect the healthy twist. The addition of blueberries not only makes these treats look stunning but also provides antioxidants and a refreshing tartness. If you’re looking to indulge without the guilt, this brownie recipe is a winner!
Why You'll Love These Brownies
- Rich, chocolatey flavor balanced by the sweetness of fresh blueberries
- Creamy texture that melts in your mouth, thanks to the cottage cheese
- A healthier alternative to traditional brownies without sacrificing taste
Understanding the Ingredients
The key ingredient that sets these brownies apart is cottage cheese. It not only contributes a creamy texture but also adds a significant amount of protein compared to traditional brownies. This makes them a more nutritious option for satisfying your sweet tooth. Make sure to use well-blended cottage cheese that’s free from lumps to ensure a smooth batter; blending it briefly in a food processor can help achieve this texture.
Fresh blueberries provide a burst of natural sweetness and moisture, which balances the rich chocolate flavor. When selecting blueberries, look for plump, firm berries that are deep in color. If fresh blueberries aren't available, you can substitute with frozen ones, but be aware they may release more juice into the batter, altering the final texture slightly.
Baking Techniques for Perfection
Properly preheating your oven is essential for achieving brownies with the perfect texture. Start preheating to 350°F (175°C) a good 15 minutes before you plan to bake. This ensures that your brownies will rise evenly without becoming overly dense or chewy. An additional technique is to bake the brownies in the center of the oven for optimal heat distribution.
When mixing the batter, avoid over-mixing once the flour is added. Stir just until combined to prevent gluten development, which could lead to tougher brownies. You should aim for a smooth consistency, but small lumps are fine; these will not affect the final product. Look for a rich and glossy batter before you fold in the blueberries.
Ingredients
For the Brownies
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
These ingredients come together to create a deliciously decadent treat!
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan with non-stick spray.
Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sugar, cocoa powder, flour, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, salt, and baking powder. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Add Blueberries
Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, being careful not to crush them.
Bake
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
Enjoy your deliciously rich brownies!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These brownies can be made in advance and stored for up to five days in an airtight container at room temperature. If you prefer to keep them fresh for longer, consider refrigerating them, where they'll stay good for about a week. Just note that chilling will alter the texture slightly, making them denser and fudgier, which can be quite pleasant.
For longer storage, you can freeze these brownies. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature or heat them briefly in the microwave for a warm dessert experience.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
For an extra layer of flavor, try drizzling melted dark chocolate or a homemade chocolate ganache over the cooled brownies. Not only does this create a visually appealing dessert, but it also adds a delightful richness that complements the blueberries beautifully. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for added texture and crunch.
If you want to experiment with flavors, consider substituting a quarter of the cocoa powder with almond flour or ground oats for a different lovely taste. You could also add spices like cinnamon or espresso powder for a mocha flavor, enhancing the chocolate depth without added sweetness. Each of these variations can bring something unique to your brownie experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute if you prefer.
→ How do I store the brownies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for about a week.
→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would complement the flavors beautifully.
→ What type of cocoa powder should I use?
Use unsweetened cocoa powder for the best results. Dutch-processed cocoa can also work if you prefer a milder chocolate flavor.
Cottage Cheese Brownies with Blueberries
I absolutely love making these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Blueberries because they are the perfect blend of sweetness and nutrition. The creamy texture derived from cottage cheese creates a unique base that elevates the brownies to a new level. Incorporating fresh blueberries not only adds beautiful color but also infuses each bite with a burst of fruity flavor. Plus, this recipe is a great way to sneak in some protein without compromising on taste. They’ve quickly become a favorite treat in our household, and I’m sure they will be in yours too!
Created by: Leonie Fairchild
Recipe Type: Soft Kitchen
Skill Level: Medium
Final Quantity: 12 brownies
What You'll Need
For the Brownies
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan with non-stick spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sugar, cocoa powder, flour, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, salt, and baking powder. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, being careful not to crush them.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 26g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 4g