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 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese (blended until smooth); 1/2 cup sugar; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup flour; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter (for swirling)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Peanut Butter Swirl! The combination of creamy cottage cheese and rich cocoa creates a fudgy texture that is utterly irresistible. Plus, the swirls of peanut butter not only enhance the flavor but also make these brownies visually appealing. Making these brownies is a breeze, and they are a healthier alternative to traditional brownies. I often make them for gatherings or just when I crave something sweet but want to indulge responsibly.

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:58:12.023Z

When I first tried making brownies with cottage cheese, I was pleasantly surprised by how much moisture it added. It created a deliciously soft texture that contrasted beautifully with the creamy peanut butter swirls. I discovered that by blending the cottage cheese until smooth, I could eliminate any graininess, making the brownies rich and decadent. I also like to add a pinch of salt to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Over time, I've perfected this recipe and found that the key to great brownies is not overmixing once the dry ingredients are added. Doing so keeps them chewy and prevents them from becoming tough. These brownies have become a favorite in my household, and I love sharing them with friends for that extra layer of surprise when they realize how healthy they are!

        Why You Will Love These Brownies
        Creamy texture from cottage cheese that's unexpectedly indulgent
Peanut butter swirls add a rich, nutty flavor
Healthier alternative to traditional brownies without sacrificing taste
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion

      

Texture and Flavor Harmony

The unique combination of cottage cheese and cocoa powder gives these brownies a distinct fudgy texture that is both creamy and moist. The cottage cheese lends a surprising richness, making these brownies feel indulgent even while being a healthier treat. You'll find that they are less dense than traditional brownies but have an equally satisfying mouthfeel, ensuring each bite delivers happiness and comfort.

As the brownies bake, the aroma of chocolate and peanut butter fills your kitchen, creating an enticing environment. The peanut butter creates contrasting swirls, adding a nutty depth that complements the chocolate flavor perfectly. When you take your first bite, the rich, gooey chocolate mixes seamlessly with the creamy peanut butter, making it hard to resist going back for another piece.

Ingredient Insights

Using freshly blended cottage cheese is essential for achieving the smooth texture that distinguishes these brownies. If you happen to have leftover cottage cheese with a few lumps, take a moment to blend it until completely smooth. This will help incorporate it into the batter without any unwanted texture, ensuring each brownie has that fudgy consistency.

The use of vegetable oil not only adds moisture to the batter but also keeps the brownies soft longer, helping to maintain their freshness. If you’re looking for a healthier fat option, consider substituting with unsweetened applesauce or avocado oil. Both options will yield a slightly different flavor but will still work well without compromising the final product.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful batch of brownies:

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese (blended until smooth)
1/2 cup sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup flour
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/3 cup creamy peanut butter (for swirling)

Make sure to have all ingredients prepared before you start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.

Prepare for Peanut Butter Swirl

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.

Add Peanut Butter

Dollop spoonfuls of peanut butter over the batter, then use a knife to swirl it into the mixture.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious treat!

Make sure to let them cool for the best texture!

Pro Tips

For an extra chocolatey flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the brownie batter before baking.

Making Ahead and Storage

These brownies can be made ahead of time, allowing for easy snacking throughout the week. After baking, let them cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, you can cut them into squares and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them for a week for a chilled treat. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the brownies once they’re cut; just layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months.

When ready to enjoy frozen brownies, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours. If you want a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, until just warmed through. This will bring back the fudgy texture and enhance the flavors of chocolate and peanut butter.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different nut butters, like almond or cashew, to switch up the flavors in these brownies. Each nut butter will add its own unique taste; for instance, almond butter will impart a sweet, subtle nuttiness, while cashew butter will contribute a creamier texture. You can also consider adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the brownie batter for added texture and flavor bursts throughout.

For a more indulgent treat, consider topping the brownies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate once they have cooled. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds another layer of deliciousness, making your Cottage Cheese Brownies even more irresistible during gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well and still keeps the brownies moist.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them individually and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for peanut butter?

You can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you prefer a different nut or seed option.