Description
These High-Protein Cottage Cheese Brownies are fudgy, moist, and packed with protein, making them a guilt-free indulgence. Combining low-fat cottage cheese with chocolate protein powder and rich cocoa, these brownies offer a healthy twist on a classic dessert perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while boosting protein intake.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 2 scoops (about 60g) chocolate protein powder
- 3 tbsp almond flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
Optional Add-ins
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp espresso powder
- 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Blend cottage cheese: Place the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth, about 30 to 45 seconds, creating a creamy base for the batter.
- Add wet ingredients: Add the eggs and maple syrup to the blended cottage cheese and pulse until the mixture is well combined.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, chocolate protein powder, almond flour, salt, and baking powder to ensure even distribution.
- Combine wet and dry: Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined, taking care not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
- Fold in chocolate chips and add-ins: Incorporate the dark chocolate chips and any desired optional ingredients like nuts, vanilla extract, or espresso powder for extra flavor and texture.
- Transfer batter: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. Use a toothpick inserted in the center to check doneness; it should come out with moist crumbs.
- Cool and serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan for at least 30 minutes before slicing into 16 squares for best texture and easier cutting.
Notes
- For a mint chocolate twist, add mint extract to the wet ingredients and use mint chocolate protein powder.
- To enjoy mocha-flavored brownies, add instant coffee powder to the dry ingredients.
- For a peanut butter swirl, drop spoonfuls of peanut butter onto the batter and swirl gently before baking.