Cottage Cheese Protein Brownies

These Cottage Cheese Protein Brownies are the perfect combination of rich, chocolatey flavor and a healthy protein boost. With no flour, no sugar, and under 100 calories per serving, they offer a guilt-free indulgence that fits into any diet. Packed with 7 grams of protein per serving, these brownies are ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth without the extra calories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These brownies are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. By using cottage cheese and protein powder, they deliver a healthy dose of protein while keeping the calories low. They’re flourless, sugar-free, and perfect for anyone following a low-carb or gluten-free diet. Plus, they’re quick to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and 30 minutes of your time. Whether you need a post-workout snack or a healthier dessert, these brownies are a perfect fit!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cottage cheese

• ½ cup protein powder (use your favorite flavor)

• 4 large eggs (room temperature)

• ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• ¼ cup coconut oil (melted)

• ½ cup coconut flour

• ¾ cup sweetener (your preferred sweetener)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ¼ cup chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or grease it well. Set aside.

2. Blend the Cottage Cheese: Add the cottage cheese to a blender or food processor and process until smooth. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure the cottage cheese is creamy.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: To the blended cottage cheese, add the 4 eggs, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Blend or process until well combined.

4. Add the Dry Ingredients: Add the protein powder, cocoa powder, coconut flour, sweetener, and baking powder to the wet mixture. Blend until a smooth batter forms, scraping down the sides if necessary.

5. Prepare the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

6. Top with Chocolate: Sprinkle the chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate evenly over the top of the batter.

7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-22 minutes, or until the top looks set and firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.

8. Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Different Protein Flavors: Use flavored protein powders like chocolate or vanilla to add extra flavor to your brownies.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for a bit of crunch.

• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free option, use a dairy-free cottage cheese alternative and plant-based protein powder.

• Sweetener Substitutes: Feel free to use your preferred sweetener like stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol for a sugar-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Store these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. They can be reheated in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back the fudgy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of protein powder?

Yes, you can use any protein powder you prefer—whey, plant-based, or casein. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary depending on the protein powder used.

2. Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute the sweetener with stevia, monk fruit, or any other sugar alternative. Just make sure to adjust the quantity according to the sweetness level of your chosen sweetener.

3. Are these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, these brownies are gluten-free as they are made with coconut flour and do not contain any wheat-based ingredients.

4. Can I use regular flour instead of coconut flour?

Coconut flour has a unique texture and absorbs more liquid than regular flour, so it cannot be substituted directly. If you want to use regular flour, you’ll need to adjust the amount and texture, possibly using less flour than the recipe calls for.

5. How do I store these brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer shelf life, you can freeze them for up to a month.

6. Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, these brownies freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, and they will last up to a month in the freezer.

7. How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

The brownies are done when the top is firm to the touch, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.

8. Can I use regular cottage cheese instead of low-fat?

Yes, regular cottage cheese works fine in this recipe. However, using low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese will reduce the calorie content of the brownies.

9. Can I use almond flour instead of coconut flour?

Almond flour can be used in place of coconut flour, but it requires a different ratio. You’ll likely need to use more almond flour and adjust the liquid content in the batter.

10. Can I make these brownies without the chocolate chips?

Yes, you can skip the chocolate chips or use a healthier option, like cocoa nibs, or even swirl in a bit of peanut butter for added flavor.

Conclusion

These Cottage Cheese Protein Brownies are a delicious and guilt-free way to satisfy your chocolate cravings. With 7 grams of protein per serving, they’re perfect for a post-workout snack or a healthy dessert. They’re easy to make, flourless, and sugar-free, making them an excellent treat for those following a healthier lifestyle. Whether you’re on a diet or just looking for a protein-packed indulgence, these brownies are sure to hit the spot!

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