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 chopped dates, pitted; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup whole wheat flour

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first experimented with creating Cottage Cheese Brownies with Dates, I was intrigued by the idea of using cottage cheese to lighten up a classic dessert. To my delight, these brownies turned out incredibly moist and rich, with a subtle hint of sweetness from the dates. They’re not just a healthier alternative; they also add an intriguing texture that I absolutely love. I can't wait to share this recipe with you, as it has quickly become one of my go-to treats for both family gatherings and quiet evenings at home.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:01:15.461Z

As I navigated through various dessert recipes, I stumbled upon a way to incorporate cottage cheese into brownies. Initially skeptical, I decided to give it a shot, and I was pleasantly surprised! The combination of cottage cheese and dates created a unique, fudgy texture that made these brownies irresistible.

One of my favorite discoveries while making these was how the sweetness of the dates complemented the naturally mild flavor of the cottage cheese. It’s a game-changer, reducing the need for extra sugar while still satisfying my sweet tooth. I hope you find the same joy in baking these as I did!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Healthy twist on a classic dessert
Moist texture with a delightful sweetness from dates
Low in sugar but rich in flavor
Perfect for sharing or as a personal treat

      

Understanding Ingredients

The star ingredient in these Cottage Cheese Brownies is, of course, cottage cheese. It is a fantastic source of protein and moisture, which contributes to the rich texture of the brownies without the extra fat of traditional recipes. Opt for low-fat cottage cheese for a lighter version, or full-fat for a creamier outcome. Make sure to blend it smoothly to avoid any lumps that could affect the final texture.

Dates serve as a natural sweetener in this recipe, providing both sweetness and fiber. Their sticky texture helps bind the ingredients together, which is particularly important when substituting for traditional sugars. If you find your dates too hard to blend, soak them in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften them up before processing.

Tips for Perfect Brownies

When mixing the ingredients, be careful not to over-mix the batter. Stir until just combined to maintain the brownies' tender texture. Over-mixing can lead to dense, tough brownies, which is the opposite of what we're aiming for. Also, a spatula is perfect for gently folding the wet ingredients into the dry to prevent unnecessary air incorporation.

Baking time can vary depending on your oven and the type of pan you use. If you prefer fudgier brownies, check for doneness around the 20-minute mark. Conversely, if you like them cakier, you might let them bake for an additional 5 minutes. The toothpick test is effective here; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not dry.

Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Brownies with Dates

For the Brownies:

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup chopped dates, pitted
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup whole wheat flour

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.

Blend the Base

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and whole wheat flour.

Combine Mixtures

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

Pour into Baking Dish

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for a few minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Enjoy Your Brownies!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider folding in nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking. Allow the brownies to cool completely for the best texture.

Storage and Leftovers

These brownies store exceptionally well due to their moisture from the cottage cheese. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to three days or stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To enjoy them chilled or at room temperature, simply take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving.

For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies. Cut them into squares, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, and store in a zip-top bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

If you want to experiment with flavors, adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder can elevate the chocolate flavor dramatically. You can also mix in nuts or chocolate chips for added texture—walnuts or dark chocolate chips pair particularly well with the richness of the brownies.

For a tasty serving suggestion, try pairing these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of sea salt on top enhances the chocolate flavors beautifully, while fresh fruit like raspberries or strawberries adds a zingy contrast. Serve them at a family gathering or enjoy a quiet evening with a brownie and a cup of herbal tea.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute cottage cheese with another ingredient?

You can try using Greek yogurt as a substitute, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ How should I store these brownies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, you can freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.

→ What can I use instead of dates?

If you don’t have dates, you can use other dried fruits such as figs or raisins, but keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.