Cottage Cheese Brownies with Peanut Butter Swirl

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Peanut Butter Swirl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon milk

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I have always been a huge fan of brownies, but I wanted to create a healthier twist on the classic recipe. This is where my Cottage Cheese Brownies with Peanut Butter Swirl comes into play! By incorporating cottage cheese, I was able to achieve that fudgy texture while adding a protein boost. The peanut butter swirl not only elevates the flavor but also adds a creamy richness that is simply irresistible. Trust me, these brownies are a delightful treat you won’t want to miss!

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:58:11.973Z

When I first experimented with using cottage cheese in desserts, I didn't expect it to be such a game changer. The key lies in blending the cottage cheese until it's silky smooth, which really brings out the creaminess. When I added the peanut butter swirl, it took the classic brownie to a whole new level.

I've made these brownies for various gatherings, and they always receive rave reviews. The combination of flavors is simply magical, and I particularly love the way the peanut butter contrasts with the rich chocolate. Try them with a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra layer of flavor!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        A deliciously rich and fudgy texture that will satisfy your chocolate cravings.
The protein from cottage cheese makes these brownies a guilt-free indulgence.
Peanut butter adds a creamy swirl that perfectly complements the chocolate.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of cottage cheese is crucial in this brownie recipe. Its moisture contributes to the fudgy texture, while the protein enhances the nutritional profile, making these brownies a satisfying treat without the guilt. If you're wary of the texture, opt for small curd cottage cheese or blend it to achieve a smoother consistency. The creaminess helps to keep the brownies rich and indulgent while significantly reducing unhealthy fats traditionally found in brownies.

Unsweetened cocoa powder is another key player in these brownies. It provides the deep chocolate flavor integral to classic brownies without the added sugars found in premade mixes. This recipe balances sweetness with rich cocoa, ensuring your brownies are satisfying and not overly sweet. If you prefer a stronger chocolate taste, feel free to increase the cocoa powder to 2/3 cup, but you may need to adjust the sugar accordingly.

Technique Tips for Perfect Brownies

When mixing your brownie batter, take care not to overblend. You want your ingredients combined until just smooth to avoid overdeveloping the gluten in the flour, which could lead to dense, rubbery brownies. A few lumps are okay! You can use a stand mixer or a hand mixer at low speed, but I often prefer using a spatula for more control and to keep the texture light.

Swirling in the peanut butter not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of the brownies. Use a sharp knife or a toothpick to create the swirl. Start at the edges and work towards the center for a more artistic look. Remember not to overmix, as the beautiful marbling will become less defined, and you want to retain that creamy peanut butter presence in every bite.

Ingredients

Brownie Base

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

Peanut Butter Swirl

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon milk

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Brownie Ingredients

In a large blending bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sugar, cocoa powder, flour, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl

In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter, sugar, and milk until smooth.

Combine and Swirl

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture onto the brownie batter and use a knife to swirl it through.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the dish for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the brownie batter before baking.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be made ahead of time and stored for up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. If you're prepping for a party or special occasion, consider baking them a day in advance. Allow them to cool completely before slicing; this helps them retain moisture and flavor. For longer storage, freeze the brownies in individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

If you plan to enjoy the brownies over several days, I recommend keeping the peanut butter swirl separate (it can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge) and adding it just before serving for optimal freshness. The peanut butter can lose its creamy texture over time, so reheating it slightly will help restore its spreadability when you dollop it onto your brownies.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These brownies shine with various toppings or accompaniments. A sprinkling of sea salt right before serving balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate experience. For those who enjoy a more indulgent dessert, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce can also add an irresistible touch for chocolate lovers.

If you'd like to switch up the flavor profile, consider adding chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra texture and richness. Alternatively, you could use almond butter or a nut-free substitute for the swirl if you're catering to allergies. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to experiment with flavors while keeping it healthy and delicious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, non-fat cottage cheese will work, but the brownies may be slightly less rich.

→ How should I store the leftovers?

Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for sugar?

You can use honey or maple syrup, but be aware that it may alter the texture slightly.