Cottage Cheese Brownies with Coconut

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Coconut
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup shredded coconut, toasted

Highlighted under: Oven Cooking

I absolutely love making Cottage Cheese Brownies with Coconut because they combine the rich taste of chocolate with the surprising lightness of cottage cheese. The texture is incredibly moist, and the toasted coconut adds a perfect crunch. This recipe is a go-to for when I want a sweet treat that feels indulgent but is actually packed with protein. My friends often ask for the recipe after tasting these brownies, and I can't wait to share this delightful dessert with you too!

Created by

Nerissa Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:34:36.697Z

When I first came across the idea of using cottage cheese in brownies, I was both intrigued and skeptical. After experimenting with the recipe a few times, I discovered that it adds a great moisture without overpowering the chocolate flavor. I also learned that using low-fat cottage cheese allows me to enjoy these decadent brownies without too much guilt.

The addition of toasted coconut was a happy accident. I had some leftover coconut from another recipe and thought, 'Why not?' It turned out to be the perfect touch, bringing a subtle sweetness and unexpectedly delightful texture that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with a hint of coconut sweetness
A unique, moist texture that you won't find in traditional brownies
Packaged with protein goodness, these treats are a guilt-free indulgence

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese serves as the foundation of these brownies, providing a rich source of protein while keeping the texture incredibly moist. Its mild flavor allows the chocolate and coconut to shine through, ensuring that every bite is filled with sweetness without being overly heavy. If you’re looking for a leaner alternative, low-fat cottage cheese can work just as well without sacrificing much on texture or flavor.

Another benefit of using cottage cheese is its ability to replace some of the fat typically found in brownie recipes. The moisture from the cheese means you can cut down on oil without compromising the fudgy texture. If you're experimenting, consider replacing half of the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce for a delightful twist and even lighter brownies.

Toasting the Coconut

Toasting the coconut is a crucial step that enhances its flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the brownies. To toast coconut, spread it evenly on a baking sheet and bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it turns golden brown. Keep a close eye on it, as it can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly.

If you prefer unsweetened coconut, you can still achieve a great flavor profile by toasting it. For those who enjoy a hint of salt, consider using lightly salted coconut, which can contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the brownies and add another layer of complexity to the overall taste.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, they freeze beautifully. Cut the brownies into squares, layer them between sheets of parchment, and place them in an airtight freezer bag. They will keep well in the freezer for about three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

For serving, I love pairing these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. You can also enjoy them as is, or top them with fresh berries for a vibrant, fresh contrast to the rich brownies. Feel free to get creative; drizzling some melted dark chocolate over the top can elevate your dessert presentation!

Ingredients

For the Brownies

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Ingredients

In a blender, combine cottage cheese, cocoa powder, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the toasted coconut.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to the batter. It enhances the chocolate without adding any coffee taste.

Flavor Variations

While this recipe celebrates the classic chocolate and coconut combination, feel free to get creative! You can incorporate ingredients like chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to add crunch and richness. Alternatively, using dark chocolate chips can give an extra burst of chocolate flavor, making the brownies even more decadent. If you're a fan of tropical flavors, consider adding a splash of almond extract for a fun twist.

For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and ensure that any added mix-ins, like chocolate chips, are gluten-free. This way, you can still indulge in these brownies without worrying about gluten sensitivities!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies turn out too dry, it may be due to overbaking. To avoid this, start checking for doneness at around 20 minutes by inserting a toothpick. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean. If the top appears set and the edges are pulling away from the pan, you’re likely in a good spot to pull them out, even if the center seems slightly undercooked.

On the flip side, if your brownies seem too gooey and undercooked, consider baking them a few extra minutes. Just remember, brownies continue to set as they cool, so pulling them from the oven when they're still slightly soft is usually ideal for that perfect fudgy texture!

Scaling the Recipe

If you want to double this recipe for a larger gathering, simply use a 9x13-inch pan instead of the 9x9-inch pan. Be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly—check them around the 30-minute mark but be prepared they may require an additional 5-10 minutes depending on your oven. Always test with a toothpick to ensure they are done to your liking.

For a smaller batch, you can halve the ingredients while still enjoying this indulgent treat. Mixing the ingredients may be slightly easier in a smaller bowl, and it's a perfect way to satisfy those chocolate cravings without having too many leftovers!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Absolutely! Low-fat cottage cheese works wonderfully in this recipe and will keep your brownies moist.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes! They freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to three months.

→ What can I replace the vegetable oil with?

You can substitute melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce for the vegetable oil for a different flavor profile.