Cottage Cheese Brownies with Coconut

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Coconut
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup butter, melted; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup shredded coconut

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Coconut whenever I'm craving something sweet yet slightly different. The unique blend of cottage cheese adds a protein boost while keeping the brownies moist and fluffy. Topped with a delightful layer of coconut flakes, every bite is a delicious combination of textures and flavors. Whether for a gathering or just a pick-me-up during the week, these brownies quickly become a go-to treat in my kitchen. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to whip up in no time at all!

Created by

Sienna Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:22:07.877Z

During one of my baking adventures, I stumbled upon the idea of incorporating cottage cheese into brownies. Initially, I was skeptical, but the results were fantastic! The cottage cheese not only contributes to a rich texture but also balances out the sweetness. Each bite boasts a satisfying creaminess that you wouldn't typically expect from traditional brownies.

After several attempts, I discovered that adding shredded coconut on top enhances the flavor profile even further. The subtle chewiness of the coconut pairs beautifully with the brownie base, making these treats utterly addictive! Trust me, you’ll want to bake a double batch!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Unexpectedly rich and moist thanks to cottage cheese
Coconut flakes add a delightful crunch and tropical flavor
A healthier dessert option that doesn't skimp on taste

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese acts as the star ingredient in these brownies, contributing not only moisture but also a rich source of protein. This unique addition helps to keep the brownies fluffy rather than dense, creating a cake-like texture that is pleasantly surprising. When blended well, the cottage cheese becomes nearly undetectable, ensuring that the brownies deliver on the sweet chocolate flavor without being overly heavy.

For best results, use full-fat cottage cheese, as it enhances the creaminess and flavor profile of the brownies. If you're looking to adapt the recipe for dietary needs, low-fat options can work, but they may slightly change the texture. Just make sure to thoroughly blend the cottage cheese until smooth to avoid any lumps.

Perfecting the Coconut Topping

The shredded coconut not only adds a delightful crunch but also a tropical sweetness that elevates the flavor profile of these brownies. Opt for unsweetened coconut to maintain control over the overall sweetness. If you wish to experiment, you can try toasting the coconut flakes lightly in a skillet until golden brown before adding them on top of the batter for an added depth of flavor and a nice golden color.

Keep in mind that the type of coconut used impacts the final texture. Look for larger flakes if you want a more pronounced chewiness, or use finer shreds for a subtler coconut presence throughout. Just remember, you can always adjust the amount of coconut based on your personal preference; feel free to use a little more or less!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Once cooled, store your Cottage Cheese Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Cut the brownies into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge before serving.

When reheating, I recommend microwaving individual squares for about 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey treat that feels freshly baked. Alternatively, you can heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Just keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t dry out. Enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup shredded coconut

Make sure to prep these ingredients before starting!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending until just combined.

Add Coconut and Bake

Fold in half of the shredded coconut and pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining coconut and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes.

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool before slicing into squares. Enjoy!

Serve these brownies at room temperature for the best texture!

Pro Tips

For an extra rich flavor, consider adding a pinch of coffee powder to the batter or swirling in some melted chocolate before baking.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative with this brownie recipe! Incorporating chocolate chips is a great way to amplify the chocolate flavor; try adding half a cup of dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips to the batter. For a nutty twist, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans before baking. Nuts not only add texture but also enhance the overall richness of the brownies, making them even more satisfying.

If you’re a fan of spices, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder or a pinch of cinnamon to the dry ingredients. These spices can intensify the chocolate flavor dramatically and add a warm, cozy note to your brownies. Just keep the measurements small; you want to complement the chocolate, not overpower it.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies come out too dry, it may be due to overmixing after adding the dry ingredients or baking them for too long. Ensure you mix until just combined to prevent excess air from being incorporated, and check for doneness a couple of minutes prior to the suggested baking time. If a toothpick comes out clean but too much time has passed, the brownies may dry out.

Conversely, if your brownies are too gooey or undercooked, it might be due to an inaccurate oven temperature. I recommend using an oven thermometer to confirm your oven’s accuracy. Additionally, make sure you're using the right type of pan; a glass or metal pan can yield different baking results, so adjust the baking time as needed by a few minutes based on your experience with your pans.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well, but the brownies may be slightly less rich.

→ How should I store these 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 tightly and freeze for up to 3 months for a delicious treat later on.

→ What can I substitute for coconut?

If you're not a fan of coconut, feel free to leave it out or replace it with chopped nuts or chocolate chips.