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 pitted dates, chopped; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 2 large eggs; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I’ve always sought out a brownie that’s both guilt-free and indulgent, and these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Dates tick all the boxes. Combining creamy cottage cheese with the natural sweetness of dates, I was pleasantly surprised by how rich and flavorful these brownies turned out. Baking them is quick, and they come together seamlessly. Perfect for a sweet treat, they provide a protein boost without sacrificing taste. Believe me, they’re bound to become a favorite in your household too!

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:16:02.490Z

When I first experimented with using cottage cheese in brownies, I was skeptical. However, the texture and flavor turned out incredibly satisfying! The cottage cheese not only adds moisture but also a protein boost that makes these brownies feel guilt-free. I suggest using ripe, soft dates for the best natural sweetness.

One of the key tricks I discovered is blending the cottage cheese until smooth before incorporating it into the mix. This ensures a silky batter and eliminates any lumps, providing a delightful brownie experience that everyone will enjoy, even if they don't know the secret ingredient!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Deliciously fudgy and moist texture
Natural sweetness from dates without added sugar
A healthier twist on traditional brownies

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Cottage cheese serves as the unique base for these brownies, bringing both creaminess and a protein boost. Its role is crucial as it replaces traditional fats like butter, and its moisture ensures a fudgy texture. Make sure to use a smooth, well-blended cottage cheese, as any lumps will affect the final texture of the brownies. If you prefer a smoother consistency, blending the cottage cheese alone before adding other ingredients can enhance the overall creaminess.

Dates not only provide natural sweetness but also contribute to the chewy consistency of these brownies. When using pitted dates, look for medjool dates as they are softer, which makes them easier to blend. If you're in a pinch, chopped prunes can be a great substitute, retaining natural sweetness and moisture. Just keep in mind that using alternate fruits may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies

Pay attention to the baking time: Brownies can go from perfectly fudgy to overbaked quite quickly. Start checking for doneness at around 20 minutes. Gently insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out slightly moist but without uncooked batter. The edges should appear set, and the top should have a slight sheen.

Cooling is as important as baking. Allowing the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes helps them set and makes cutting easier. For a neater presentation, consider using a plastic knife or a bench scraper to cut them into squares once they’re completely cooled. This technique minimizes the chance of crumbling, providing clean edges.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup pitted dates, chopped
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
2 large eggs
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, chopped dates, honey (or maple syrup), eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined. Do not overmix.

Bake the Brownies

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

Cool and Cut

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Enjoy these delicious brownies as a guilt-free dessert or snack!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, consider sprinkling chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips on top of the brownies before baking.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you're planning to keep them longer, freeze them in single layers, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy a sweet treat.

For added flair, serve these brownies with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Drizzling with a homemade chocolate sauce or topping with fresh berries can elevate the dessert further, making it a fantastic option for special occasions or just a cozy night in.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to get creative with add-ins! Chopped walnuts or pecans can provide a lovely crunch and enhance the flavor profile of the brownies. If you're a fan of chocolate, consider folding in mini chocolate chips into the batter before baking for an extra chocolatey experience. Just remember to account for the sweetness from these add-ins, as they may require slight adjustments to the overall sugar content.

You can also explore flavor variations by adding spices like cinnamon or espresso powder to the dry ingredients, which can deepen the chocolate flavor and add warmth. Alternatively, a bit of orange zest can impart a refreshing brightness that pairs wonderfully with the fudgy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different sweetener instead of dates?

Yes, you can substitute with other natural sweeteners, but dates provide a unique flavor and moisture.

→ How should I store these brownies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

→ Is it possible to make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free baking powder and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.