Cottage Cheese Brownies with Dates

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Dates
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup dates, pitted and chopped; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup almond flour; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Cottage Cheese Brownies with Dates because of how unique and delicious they turn out. The sweetness of the dates combined with the creaminess of the cottage cheese creates brownies that are both rich and surprisingly nutritious. I never thought cottage cheese could bring such a moist texture, but it really elevates these brownies! Perfect for a guilt-free treat or a sweet indulgence, this recipe is an exciting twist on traditional brownies that I always enjoy sharing with friends and family.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:22:09.679Z

When I decided to experiment with cottage cheese in my brownie recipe, I was thrilled with the outcome. The brownies turn out so luscious while still being lower in fat. Specifically, using blended cottage cheese not only helps achieve that gooey texture but also provides a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the dates perfectly.

One tip I discovered along the way is to ensure you blend the cottage cheese until it’s completely smooth; this makes all the difference in your brownie batter. I often add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking to enhance the overall flavor. Trust me, this simple addition takes the brownies to another level!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        A delightful combination of natural sweetness from the dates
Rich, fudgy texture that doesn't compromise on flavor
Packed with protein and lower in sugar than traditional brownies

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is the star ingredient in these brownies, providing a creamy texture that elevates the usual brownie experience. It is not just for moisture; its protein content offers a decadent, satisfying bite without the heaviness of traditional fat sources. When blended properly, it integrates seamlessly into the batter, making the brownies feel indulgent yet retaining a lighter profile.

When using cottage cheese, make sure to select a smooth variety. If you have larger curds, a quick spin in the blender can help achieve the desired consistency. This step ensures a uniform texture throughout your brownies, preventing any curd bits from disrupting the fudgy experience.

Sweetness and Flavor Balance

The medley of dates and honey or maple syrup creates a unique sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the rich cocoa. Dates naturally have a deep caramel-like flavor that enhances the chocolate without overwhelming it. When you blend the dates, make sure they are fully incorporated for a consistent sweetness across the brownies, avoiding any pockets of concentrated sugar.

If you prefer a less intense sweetness, consider adjusting the quantity of honey or opting for slightly drier dates. It's an adaptable component, allowing you to modify depending on your sweetness preference while maintaining the brownies' integrity.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your delightful brownies!

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup dates, pitted and chopped
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup almond flour
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Now that you have everything ready, let's move on to preparing our brownies!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Cottage Cheese Brownies.

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Ingredients

In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, dates, cocoa powder, honey, almond flour, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Blend until smooth and well combined.

Pour and Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the brownies to cool in the dish for 10 minutes before removing and cutting into squares. Enjoy your healthy treat!

Don't forget to share these delicious brownies with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, you can add some chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking. These add-ins make for a delightful crunch and enhance the chocolate flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with different types of nut flours in place of almond flour. Options like coconut flour or oat flour can add unique flavors or textures but will require adjustments in the liquid content due to their absorbency. Start gradually, adding a tablespoon more of your liquid sweetener if the batter seems too thick.

For additional flavor, consider folding in ingredients like nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of nut butter before baking. These add-ins not only enhance the taste but can also provide delightful texture contrasts, making every bite exciting.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Cut them into squares, place parchment between layers, and wrap tightly before freezing; they can last up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy a treat.

Since these brownies are lower in sugar and fat, they can dry out faster than traditional recipes. To keep them moist, I recommend placing a slice of bread in the container; it will help maintain humidity, ensuring your brownies stay soft and delicious for longer.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute cottage cheese with Greek yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute, but the texture may be slightly different.

→ How long can I store these brownies?

You can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make these brownies vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use maple syrup instead of honey.

→ What other sweeteners can I use?

You can use agave syrup or coconut sugar as alternatives to honey or maple syrup.