Cottage Cheese Brownies with Strawberry Cream

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Strawberry Cream
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Strawberry Cream! The combination of rich cocoa and creamy cottage cheese creates a unique texture that I find irresistible. As a bonus, the strawberry cream adds a fresh and fruity touch, making this dessert a delightful indulgence. I've experimented with different toppings, but this one has become a favorite in my household. It’s also a fun recipe to make with kids, as they will love layering the strawberry cream on top.

Created by

Jessica Brown

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:37:35.526Z

When I first decided to combine cottage cheese with brownies, I was skeptical about how it would turn out. But the result was a moist and decadent brownie that totally transformed my perception of dessert. The cottage cheese not only adds protein but also keeps the brownies incredibly tender, making them a unique addition to any dessert table.

As I layered the strawberry cream on top, I was amazed at how beautifully it complemented the chocolate's richness. I recommend a quality pureed strawberry, as it brightens the overall flavor. It’s the perfect finishing touch that elevates these brownies from ordinary to extraordinary!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberry cream
Unique texture thanks to creamy cottage cheese
Perfect for gatherings and a healthier dessert option

Understanding the Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese plays a pivotal role in the texture of these brownies. It provides moisture and creaminess, which helps create a fudgy consistency that makes the brownies both rich and satisfying. Moreover, the protein content in cottage cheese offers a healthier alternative to traditional fat sources typically used in brownie recipes. If you're looking for a low-fat option without compromising taste, cottage cheese is the way to go.

When using cottage cheese, it's important to blend it well to achieve a smooth batter. I recommend using a food processor for the best results. This ensures that the larger curds are broken down, preventing any lumps that could disrupt the brownie’s texture. The end goal is to have a batter that's glossy and thick before baking.

Preparing Your Strawberries

The fresh strawberry puree adds a vibrant flavor that balances the richness of the brownies. When selecting strawberries, opt for ripe, fragrant fruits, as they will give the cream a naturally sweet flavor. Always wash and hull them before pureeing, and be mindful of the consistency. You want it smooth enough to blend seamlessly into the cream but not too watery, or it may affect the final texture.

For a brighter strawberry flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the puree. This subtle acidity can enhance the sweetness and create a more refreshing layer atop the brownies. If you're preparing the strawberry cream ahead of time, store the puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no more than 24 hours to maintain freshness.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Strawberry Cream Ingredients

1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor in the cream.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a delicious outcome.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, blend the cottage cheese and brown sugar until smooth. Stir in the cocoa powder, flour, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely.

Prepare Strawberry Cream

Whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until medium peaks form. Gently fold in the pureed strawberries.

Layer and Serve

Once the brownies are cool, spread the strawberry cream on top. Cut into squares and serve.

Enjoy these brownies chilled for a refreshing treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add a splash of lemon juice to the strawberry cream.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These cottage cheese brownies store well, making them perfect for meal prep or gatherings. Once cooled, cut them into squares and layer parchment paper between to prevent sticking. You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and they can last in the freezer for up to two months.

If you're planning to serve the brownies later, it's best to wait to add the strawberry cream until just before serving. This keeps the cream light and fluffy, ensuring the visual appeal and texture remain intact. When you're ready to enjoy, simply spread the cream on and add any additional toppings, like chocolate shavings or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies turn out too dense, ensure you haven’t overmixed the batter after adding the dry ingredients. While it’s important to combine everything well, overly vigorous mixing can lead to tough brownies. Additionally, be cautious about overbaking; they should be slightly fudgy in the center when you pull them out of the oven. A toothpick test can help—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they're done!

On the other hand, if your brownies are crumbly, checking the ratios of moist to dry ingredients is crucial. You can remedy this by adding a bit more cottage cheese or a splash of milk to achieve the desired consistency. This will enhance moisture while maintaining that delicious, chocolatey flavor. With these tweaks, you’ll nail your brownie texture every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before pureeing.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Yes, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.