Cottage Cheese Brownies with Banana

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Banana
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/3 cup whole wheat flour; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Baked Food

I love creating unique desserts that surprise my friends, and these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Banana are a true standout. With a rich, fudgy texture and a subtle sweetness from ripe bananas, they're a delightful treat that's surprisingly healthy. The cottage cheese adds moisture and a protein boost, making these brownies a guilt-free indulgence. I can't wait for you to try them and see how easy it is to whip up this delicious dessert that feels indulgent but is packed with nutrition!

Created by

Philippa Grantley

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:17:34.992Z

When I first attempted to combine cottage cheese with brownies, I was skeptical. Would it be too strange, or would the flavors meld beautifully? After a few trials, I discovered that the creaminess of the cottage cheese paired exceptionally well with the chocolate and banana. It adds a depth of flavor while keeping the brownies moist and rich without excess butter.

One tip that I found invaluable was using very ripe bananas. They not only enhance the sweetness but also contribute to the overall texture. Don't skip this step; it's what makes these brownies stand out from the rest!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Rich chocolate flavor balanced with natural sweetness from bananas
Moist and fudgy texture that won't disappoint
Packed with protein from cottage cheese, making it a healthier treat

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Cottage Cheese Brownies plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. For instance, cottage cheese not only provides moisture but also boosts the protein content, making these brownies a wholesome option. The blended cottage cheese becomes nearly indistinguishable, ensuring a fudgy texture without the need for oils or excessive sugar. This substitution keeps the brownies light while enhancing their nutritional profile.

The bananas add natural sweetness and moisture to the mix, so using ripe bananas is essential. Not only does their creamy texture help bind the ingredients together, but they also help reduce the need for added sugars. If you find yourself without ripe bananas, you can quickly ripen green ones by placing them in a brown paper bag for a day or two or even baking them at a low temperature until soft.

Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies

When baking your brownies, maintaining the right temperature is vital for achieving that fudgy consistency. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and ensure your baking pan is properly greased to prevent sticking. Also, check the brownies around the 20-minute mark. If you notice the edges pulling away from the pan but the center still looks a bit wet, it’s a sign they're done. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

For those who prefer a richer chocolate flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder or adding a bit of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate notes. Additionally, if you want to experiment, swap half of the whole wheat flour with almond flour for a nuttier flavor and slightly different texture, giving these brownies a unique twist.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/3 cup whole wheat flour
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking pan.

Blend the Base

In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, ripe bananas, cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir to combine.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the blended mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. If using, fold in chocolate chips.

Bake

Spread the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before cutting them into squares. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra texture, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be made ahead and stored for later enjoyment. Once baked and cooled, cut them into squares and store them in an airtight container. They can last up to a week in the refrigerator and also freeze well for up to three months. To freeze, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying or pop one in the microwave for a warm treat.

If you're preparing these brownies for a gathering, you can also enhance their presentation by dusting them lightly with cocoa powder or powdered sugar before serving. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast against the chocolatey depth of the brownies.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize these brownies according to your palate. You can mix in different add-ins such as chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even a swirl of peanut butter for added flavor. If you want to cut down on sugar, you can replace the honey or maple syrup with a sugar-free alternative, keeping in mind that the consistency may vary slightly.

For those who are dairy-free, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese or a plant-based yogurt in place of cottage cheese. This will still keep the brownies moist while making them accessible to a wider audience. Additionally, swap the chocolate chips with dark chocolate chunks that are dairy-free to maintain that rich chocolate flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute cottage cheese with something else?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for cottage cheese for similar texture and protein.

→ How long do these brownies last?

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for 5 days.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! These brownies freeze well. Wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with these brownies?

They pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.