Cottage Cheese Brownies with Strawberry Glaze

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Strawberry Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I often find myself craving a dessert that's both indulgent and guilt-free, and these Cottage Cheese Brownies do just that. Combining the creamy goodness of cottage cheese with rich cocoa, they've become a beloved staple in my kitchen. The vibrant strawberry glaze adds a refreshing twist that's not only visually stunning but also provides a burst of fruity flavor. Whether for a family gathering or just a cozy night in, these brownies always satisfy my sweet tooth while keeping things light and delicious.

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:46:14.647Z

When I first experimented with cottage cheese in brownies, I was pleasantly surprised by the results. The creamy texture blends seamlessly into the batter, creating a moist and fudgy brownie that’s incredibly satisfying without all the guilt of traditional recipes. I love incorporating different flavor profiles, and the strawberry glaze is a perfect complement, adding a hint of sweetness with each bite.

What really makes these brownies stand out is their versatility. I’ve tried using various fruits for the glaze, but strawberries always win my heart. To ensure the glaze sets beautifully, I discovered that allowing it to chill slightly before spreading makes a world of difference in presentation. Every time I make these, I’m reminded of how simple swaps can lead to delightful, healthy treats.

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Deliciously moist texture thanks to cottage cheese
Refreshing strawberry glaze that elevates the flavor
A healthier alternative to traditional brownies

      

Choosing the Right Cocoa Powder

Using a high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder significantly impacts the flavor of your Cottage Cheese Brownies. Look for Dutch-processed cocoa for a deeper, richer chocolate taste, or stick with natural cocoa for a more pronounced acidity that can enhance the sweetness of the glaze. Whichever you choose, sifting it with the flour eliminates any lumps, resulting in a silky batter and a smooth final product.

If you're in a pinch, you can substitute half of the cocoa powder with a similar quantity of dark chocolate, melted and slightly cooled. Just be aware that this may alter the moisture level in the batter, so monitor the baking time closely. Aim for a shiny surface and slightly domed tops as indicators of doneness.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Glaze

Achieving the perfect strawberry glaze requires a balance between sweetness and acidity. Start with ripe, fresh strawberries to maximize the sweetness and flavor; frozen strawberries can also work, but you may need to adjust the powdered sugar based on their inherent sugar content. If you prefer a more intense strawberry flavor, you could mix in a splash of strawberry extract, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the natural fruit taste.

For a smoother glaze without seeds, strain the pureed strawberries through a fine mesh sieve. This step ensures a silky texture that beautifully complements the soft brownies. After glazing, refrigerating for 30 minutes solidifies the glaze, creating a visually appealing and delicious top layer that’s easy to slice through.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

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

Strawberry Glaze Ingredients

1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the glaze to maximize flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Brownies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, mix the cottage cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the cocoa powder, flour, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Stir until fully combined.

Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely in the pan.

Make the Strawberry Glaze

In a bowl, mix the pureed strawberries with the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust sweetness to taste.

Glaze the Brownies

Once the brownies have cooled, pour the strawberry glaze over the top and spread it evenly. Let it set in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

Serve chilled for the best texture!

Pro Tips

For a richer chocolate flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. You can also experiment with adding nuts or chocolate chips to the brownie batter for additional texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Cottage Cheese Brownies are perfect for making ahead of time. Once they are baked and cooled, you can wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, they freeze beautifully; simply cut them into squares, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight container for up to three months. Let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

To maintain the glaze's freshness, consider glazing individual brownies just before serving. This way, they stay vibrant and retain their delicious fruity flavor. If you do have leftover glazed brownies, store them in the refrigerator for a day or two, but be mindful that the glaze may soften the brownies slightly over time.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies pair excellently with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Adding a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves or a side of extra pureed strawberries can elevate the presentation for special occasions. For an adult-friendly twist, drizzle a splash of balsamic reduction over the top to introduce a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness.

Experiment with toppings by incorporating crushed nuts for added crunch or a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the chocolate flavor. These brownies also make a delightful base for an ice cream sundae, blending creamy and fruity elements into an indulgent dessert that feels both satisfying and guilt-free.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well and will still keep the brownies moist.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

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

→ Can I use frozen strawberries for the glaze?

Absolutely! Just thaw and puree them before mixing with the powdered sugar.

→ What can I use instead of sugar?

You can substitute with a sugar alternative like agave syrup or a sweetener of your choice, but adjust the amounts accordingly.