Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Brownies

Name: Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I had a craving for something sweet, but I wanted to try something different. That's when I decided to experiment with cottage cheese and pumpkin in brownies. To my delight, the rich, creamy texture of the cottage cheese blends perfectly with the pumpkin's natural sweetness, creating a dessert that’s moist and satisfying. This recipe brings a unique twist to classic brownies while packing a punch of flavor. They are perfect for fall gatherings or whenever I'm in the mood for a deliciously healthy treat!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:28:54.877Z

When I first made these Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Brownies, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I thought the combination of cottage cheese and pumpkin might be too experimental, but they turned out to be a delightful surprise! The creamy texture of the cottage cheese made each bite melt in my mouth, while the pumpkin added a warm, earthy flavor.

I also learned that using a mix of cocoa powder and dark chocolate makes for a richer chocolate experience. If you want to elevate the flavor further, consider adding some spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to amplify the fall vibes. Trust me, your friends and family will be asking for more!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with subtle pumpkin sweetness
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for fall gatherings or as a nutritious indulgence

      

The Role of Ingredients

Cottage cheese is often overlooked in baking, but it brings a creamy richness and moisture to these brownies. Its protein content not only helps to create a satisfying texture but also makes these brownies a healthier alternative to traditional recipes. The addition of pumpkin puree enhances both flavor and moisture, ensuring that every bite is delectably rich without being overly indulgent. Utilizing these ingredients results in a more balanced dessert that can make you feel good about your sweet tooth.

Granulated sugar plays a crucial role in achieving the right sweetness while balancing the bitterness of the cocoa. If you want to reduce sugar, consider substituting with a natural sweetener like maple syrup, but keep in mind that this might alter the texture slightly. Additionally, using unsweetened cocoa powder allows for greater control over the sweetness level, ensuring that the brownies don't become overly sweetened by the other ingredients.

Baking Techniques

Achieving the perfect brownie texture can be tricky, but a few baking techniques can help. After mixing your batter, it's important to pour it into the prepared pan without excessive stirring. This helps maintain air bubbles created during the blending process, contributing to the moist, fudgy texture. Monitor your baking time closely; overbaking can lead to dry brownies. The edges should look firm and slightly puffed, while the center may appear soft yet set.

To ensure even baking, always preheat your oven thoroughly. An oven thermometer can be a useful tool for checking temperature accuracy, as an underheated oven may cause the brownies to remain gooey in the middle. Conversely, an overheated oven may cause them to crack or dry out. As a rule of thumb, keep an eye on your brownies starting around the 25-minute mark, and use the toothpick test to check doneness.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend Ingredients

In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, pumpkin puree, and eggs. Blend until smooth.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir to combine.

Combine Mixtures

Add the blended cheese mixture, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in chocolate chips if using, and pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, add some chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Brownies can be enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, or at room temperature. To amplify the flavors, I recommend serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, drizzle with a spiced caramel or top with chopped nuts to add crunchy texture against the soft, chewy brownie base.

If you want to elevate your brownie experience, consider pairing them with a cup of warm chai or spiced tea. The spices in these beverages complement the pumpkin flavors beautifully, making it a comforting dessert option for chilly evenings. Feel free to sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg over your brownies for an extra flavor layer.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature. For extended freshness, refrigerate them, where they can last up to two weeks. If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing the brownies. Cut them into squares, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-friendly container. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

To reheat frozen brownies, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving. This will revive their moist texture and make them feel freshly baked again, ready to satisfy your sweet cravings anytime.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for cottage cheese.

→ How should I store these brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with these brownies?

These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a treat.