Almond Joy Cottage Cheese Brownies

Highlighted under: Fresh Baking Recipes

I absolutely adore these Almond Joy Cottage Cheese Brownies! This recipe combines the rich flavors of chocolate, coconut, and almond, giving a delightful twist to the classic brownie. The addition of cottage cheese not only adds a boost of protein but also keeps the brownies incredibly moist without sacrificing that indulgent taste we all crave. I love serving these at parties, and they always receive rave reviews from friends and family who are pleasantly surprised by the lighter twist on a beloved dessert.

Anna

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:29:27.353Z

When I first decided to lighten up traditional brownies, I was unsure how they'd turn out. However, with a combination of almond flour, dark chocolate, and creamy cottage cheese, I stumbled upon a recipe that is now a family favorite. Each bite offers a satisfying texture and a burst of flavor that reminds me of the classic Almond Joy candy bar.

One of my favorite tricks is using unsweetened coconut flakes for a true tropical vibe – it pairs beautifully with the chocolate. Don't be afraid to experiment with the sweetness; I often cut back on sugar and rely on the natural flavors of the chocolate and coconut to shine through!

Why You'll Love These Brownies

  • Decadent chocolate paired with creamy cottage cheese for a guilt-free treat
  • Rich flavors of almond and coconut captured in every bite
  • Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without piling on the extra calories

The Secret to Moisture

One of the main reasons these Almond Joy Cottage Cheese Brownies are so moist and flavorful is the cottage cheese. Not only does it keep the texture tender, but it also adds protein, making these brownies a more nutritious treat. When blended until smooth, the cottage cheese becomes nearly undetectable, allowing the chocolate and coconut flavors to shine through. If you prefer a bit more texture, consider using ricotta cheese as an alternative, but be mindful it may alter the overall consistency slightly.

Another factor is the use of almond flour. This gluten-free option not only provides a subtle nutty flavor but also contributes to the moistness of the brownies. For those who might not have almond flour on hand, you can make your own by grinding blanched almonds in a food processor until finely ground. Keep in mind that other flours, such as whole wheat or oat flour, can also be used, but the final texture may differ.

Baking Tips for Perfection

When it comes to baking these brownies, patience is key. Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing the batter inside. I find that baking them on the center rack ensures even heat distribution, which helps in achieving those perfect, gooey edges while keeping the center soft—exactly what you're aiming for. If you like a fudgier brownie, check them a minute or two early to avoid overbaking.

Monitoring the cooling process is equally important. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, which helps them set, making them easier to remove later. Use the parchment paper as handles to gently lift the brownies out of the pan to avoid breakage. Letting them cool completely before slicing ensures clean cuts and the best texture—though I won't judge if you sneak a warm piece before that!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious brownies!

Brownie Ingredients

  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup sweetener of choice (e.g., honey or agave)
  • 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1/4 cup chopped almonds
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • Pinch of salt

Make sure you have everything you need before starting!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your brownies!

Prepare the Oven

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

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, honey, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, mix together almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and chopped almonds.

Bake

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper and let cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious Almond Joy Cottage Cheese Brownies!

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Pro Tips

  • For an extra almond flavor, try adding a splash of almond extract to the batter. You can also sprinkle extra coconut and chopped almonds on top before baking for a more decorative finish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Almond Joy Cottage Cheese Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. If you want to enjoy them beyond that, consider freezing them. Wrap each brownie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or leave them out at room temperature for a couple of hours.

If you plan to make these brownies ahead of time, you can prepare the batter the night before and store it covered in the fridge. Just ensure you let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before baking, as cold batter can affect the rise and texture.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them even further with a few serving suggestions. Consider topping with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for a truly indulgent dessert experience. A sprinkle of extra chopped almonds or shredded coconut on top can also add a lovely crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft brownie.

For those who enjoy a chocolate drizzle, you could melt some dark chocolate and swirl it on top before serving. This not only enhances the appearance but adds an extra layer of rich flavor that complements the brownie base. Pairing these brownies with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream makes for an irresistible treat, especially on warmer days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?

Yes, but it may alter the texture and flavor. Almond flour provides a rich, nutty taste and a moist texture.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, or freeze for up to three months.

→ Is there a substitute for cottage cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese as a substitute, but the texture will vary slightly.

→ Can I make these brownies vegan?

Yes! Use a vegan egg substitute and replace the honey with a plant-based sweetener.

Almond Joy Cottage Cheese Brownies

I absolutely adore these Almond Joy Cottage Cheese Brownies! This recipe combines the rich flavors of chocolate, coconut, and almond, giving a delightful twist to the classic brownie. The addition of cottage cheese not only adds a boost of protein but also keeps the brownies incredibly moist without sacrificing that indulgent taste we all crave. I love serving these at parties, and they always receive rave reviews from friends and family who are pleasantly surprised by the lighter twist on a beloved dessert.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Anna

Recipe Type: Fresh Baking Recipes

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 12 servings

What You'll Need

Brownie Ingredients

  1. 1 cup cottage cheese
  2. 1/2 cup almond flour
  3. 1/4 cup cocoa powder
  4. 1/2 cup sweetener of choice (e.g., honey or agave)
  5. 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips
  6. 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  7. 1/4 cup chopped almonds
  8. 2 large eggs
  9. 1 tsp vanilla extract
  10. 1/2 tsp baking powder
  11. Pinch of salt

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, honey, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.

Step 03

In a bowl, mix together almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Step 04

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and chopped almonds.

Step 05

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 06

Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper and let cool completely before slicing.

Extra Tips

  1. For an extra almond flavor, try adding a splash of almond extract to the batter. You can also sprinkle extra coconut and chopped almonds on top before baking for a more decorative finish.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 6g