Cottage Cheese Brownies with Banana Mash

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Banana Mash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 ripe banana, mashed; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup whole wheat flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Oven Planning

I never thought I could enjoy brownies that were healthier but tasted so decadent until I tried these cottage cheese brownies with banana mash. Combining the creamy texture of cottage cheese with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas creates a delightful treat that doesn't compromise on flavor. They are moist, rich, and incredibly satisfying. Now, I keep my pantry stocked with the essentials, so I can whip these up whenever a chocolate craving strikes. These brownies are a perfect way to indulge without the guilt.

Created by

Fern Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:29:34.828Z

When I first baked these brownies, I was amazed at how the banana mash blended seamlessly with cottage cheese, creating a rich and moist texture that reassured me I was baking something special. I tried different flavor combinations, but nothing beat the simple elegance of chocolate and banana. The key is to use fully ripe bananas, as they lend the best sweetness and flavor.

During my experiments, I found that adding a touch of vanilla extract really enhanced the overall taste, elevating the brownies from good to unforgettable. Trust me, if you serve these to friends, they will never guess they’re made with cottage cheese!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Decadent chocolate flavor enhanced with natural banana sweetness
Creamy texture that delights with every bite
Healthier twist on traditional brownies without sacrificing taste

Achieving the Perfect Texture

The key to achieving a perfect brownie texture lies in the balance of wet and dry ingredients. Cottage cheese provides moisture and protein, while the mashed banana adds natural sweetness and binds everything together. When mixing, aim for a smooth consistency without overmixing, as this can lead to dense brownies. I recommend using a hand mixer for the wet ingredients to ensure the cottage cheese is well integrated, resulting in an even creaminess throughout the batter.

During baking, keep an eye on the brownies towards the end of the suggested baking time. They should develop a slight shine on top and be firm around the edges while the center remains soft but not overly gooey. If you prefer a fudgier brownie, you can reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick—it should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

For those looking to customize this recipe, there are several ingredient swaps you can consider. Instead of honey or maple syrup, agave syrup can be used for a similar sweetness with a different flavor profile. If you're aiming to reduce the calorie content further, you might try using a low-fat cottage cheese or a dairy-free alternative like silken tofu, which still maintains the creamy consistency essential for brownie texture.

Consider adding a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. Pecans or walnuts work particularly well and can enhance the brownie’s richness. If you like a hint of spice, incorporating a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder can elevate the chocolate flavor and make your brownies even more indulgent.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1 ripe banana, mashed
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, mashed banana, honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy the delicious guilt-free treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra flair, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking. They provide a delightful crunch and added chocolatey goodness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To keep your cottage cheese brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerating them can help maintain their texture and flavor for about a week. You can even double the recipe and freeze a batch. To do so, ensure they are completely cooled, slice individually, and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen brownies, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can unwrapped them and pop them into the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey treat. This way, you can indulge in these delicious brownies whenever a chocolate craving strikes!

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are delightful on their own, but you can up your serving game easily. For a treat that feels more indulgent, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla or banana ice cream on top. Drizzling a bit of melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of cocoa powder can also enhance the dessert experience, making it perfect for gatherings or a sweet finish to a meal.

For a breakfast or snack option, pair a brownie with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh berries. This combination not only adds another layer of flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile. I love how versatile these brownies are—you can transform them from a dessert to a delightful breakfast choice effortlessly!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute cottage cheese with anything else?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative if preferred.

→ How can I make these brownies more chocolatey?

Feel free to add chocolate chips or increase the cocoa powder by a few tablespoons.

→ Can I use a different sweetener?

Absolutely! Coconut sugar or agave syrup are great alternatives to honey or maple syrup.

→ Are these brownies gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, simply substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.