Cottage Cheese Brownies with Banana

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Banana
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup whole wheat flour; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Home Baking Inspiration

I’ve always loved the idea of healthy indulgence, and these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Banana truly deliver. With the rich creaminess of cottage cheese and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, this recipe has become a favorite in my household. Every bite feels like a decadent treat, yet it’s packed with protein and lower in sugar compared to traditional brownies. Plus, it's incredibly straightforward to whip up! Perfect for a satisfying dessert after dinner or a snack during the day.

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:13:34.543Z

When I first experimented with using cottage cheese in desserts, I was pleasantly surprised by the results. These brownies turned out fudgy and delicious, with an unexpected creamy texture. The secret is in blending the cottage cheese until silky smooth, which adds moisture and richness without the extra calories from typical brownie ingredients.

I’ve also found that using overripe bananas not only sweetens the brownies naturally but enhances their flavor too. If you have some bananas sitting on your counter, this is the perfect way to put them to good use!

        Why You Will Love These Brownies
        Rich brownie flavor combined with creamy cottage cheese
Natural sweetness from ripe bananas, reducing added sugars
Perfect balance between healthy and indulgent

      

Mastering the Texture

The texture of your Cottage Cheese Brownies is integral to the overall experience. Blending the cottage cheese with the bananas until smooth is crucial, as it ensures that the brownies remain moist and prevent any clumps from forming. If you find your batter excessively thick, adding a tablespoon of milk can help reach the desired consistency without altering the flavor significantly.

After you have blended the wet ingredients, it's essential to gently incorporate them into the dry mixture. Overmixing can lead to denser brownies, which detracts from their intended fluffy texture. Mix until you see the dry ingredients no longer visible; this could take about 10-12 folds.

Ingredient Insights

The use of cocoa powder in these brownies gives them a deep chocolate flavor while keeping the sugar content lower compared to traditional recipes. For an even richer taste, consider using high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa, which adds a smoother, more decadent chocolate profile. Remember, the type of cocoa you choose matters; regular cocoa can sometimes present a sharper flavor.

Whole wheat flour not only adds nutrition but also contributes to a hearty texture. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, almond flour works wonderfully as a substitute, yielding a slightly nuttier taste without affecting moisture.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your brownies are baked and cooled, consider storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer, where they can last for up to three months. Let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying again for the best texture.

These brownies are excellent on their own, but if you want to elevate your dessert experience, try pairing them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of nut butter for added richness. For a flavor twist, sprinkle some chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top before baking to introduce an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

Make sure to measure accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x8 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.

Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, mashed bananas, honey (or maple syrup), eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy!

These brownies are delicious warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try folding in some chocolate chips or nuts before baking. You can also replace the whole wheat flour with almond flour for a gluten-free alternative.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your brownies come out too dry, it might be due to overbaking or using too much flour. Keeping an eye on the baking time is key; check for doneness at 25 minutes by inserting a toothpick. Remember, a few moist crumbs are acceptable and indicate that they're done.

Conversely, if your brownies appear too wet, ensure that the bananas you're using are truly ripe and mashed thoroughly. Underripe bananas can retain more moisture, which might affect the overall bake. If the batter seems too runny, consider adding a tablespoon of extra flour to thicken it slightly.

Flavor Variations

For a fresh twist on the recipe, try adding a teaspoon of instant espresso to the dry ingredients. This enhances the chocolate flavor without making the brownies taste like coffee—a great option for chocolate lovers.

You could also incorporate mix-ins like dark chocolate chips, which add extra indulgence, or dried fruit like cranberries for a burst of sweetness. Just be mindful not to add too many, as this can affect the batter's consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well, but it may slightly change the texture of the brownies.

→ Can I use other sweeteners instead of honey?

Absolutely! Maple syrup or agave nectar can be good substitutes for honey.

→ How do I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for longer shelf life.

→ Can these brownies be made vegan?

You can replace the eggs with flax eggs and use a vegan sweetener for a vegan version.