Cottage Cheese Brownies with Banana

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Banana
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Favorites

I love experimenting with healthier dessert alternatives, and these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Banana have become a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of creamy cottage cheese and sweet bananas creates a moist and rich brownie that is both indulgent and nutritious. They're perfect for satisfying my chocolate cravings without any guilt. Plus, I love how easy they are to whip up, making them a go-to recipe for last-minute gatherings or a personal treat.

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-12T08:09:02.052Z

Baking has always been a therapeutic escape for me, and these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Banana are a true testament to that. One day, I had some overripe bananas and a half tub of cottage cheese, and instead of tossing them out, I decided to create something delicious. The resulting brownies were so good that I couldn’t believe they were made with such simple ingredients!

What makes these brownies stand out is the moisture they get from the cottage cheese while still keeping that fudgy texture I crave. I’ve learned that blending the cottage cheese until smooth before mixing it in ensures every bite is heavenly and creamy. Trust me, you won’t even notice it’s a healthier option!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Deliciously moist texture that feels indulgent
Loaded with protein from the cottage cheese
Perfect for using up overripe bananas
A guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients in these Cottage Cheese Brownies are undoubtedly the cottage cheese and bananas. The cottage cheese not only adds a creamy texture but also packs a protein punch, making these brownies more filling and nutritious. When selecting cottage cheese, opt for full-fat or low-fat based on your preference; each will yield subtly different textures, but both work well in this recipe. I prefer a smoother texture, so I blend it completely, but if you enjoy a bit of curd, you can leave some chunks.

Ripe bananas are crucial for sweetness and moisture in this recipe. The riper they are, the sweeter and softer they become, which enhances the overall flavor profile. If you’re in a pinch and don’t have ripe bananas, you can microwave them for about 30 seconds to soften them, but letting them brown naturally will lead to the best results. Remember, even if they're going a bit gray, they're still great for baking!

Baking and Texture Tips

The baking time for these brownies can vary depending on your oven and the baking dish used. I recommend a glass or metal dish for even cooking; metal can help create slightly crispier edges. Keep an eye on them as they approach the 25-minute mark—look for set edges and a slightly soft center, which will firm up as they cool. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Cooling is an essential step that shouldn’t be rushed. Allowing the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 to 20 minutes helps set the texture and makes cutting easier. You might be tempted to dig in immediately, but cutting into warm brownies can result in messy squares. For a wonderfully fudgy texture, let them cool completely before slicing.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Mix well and enjoy baking!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.

Blend the Base

In a blender, combine cottage cheese and mashed bananas until smooth.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the cottage cheese and banana blend with honey, vanilla extract, and the dry ingredients until fully combined.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the dark chocolate chips if using.

Pour and Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Allow to cool before cutting into squares and serving.

Enjoy your delicious brownies!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter.

Storage and Meal Prep

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be stored in an airtight container for up to five days at room temperature, or up to a week in the fridge. If you're preparing them ahead of time, consider freezing them. Once cooled and sliced, place individual brownies between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container, and they’ll last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

If you're inclined to variation, you can adjust the sweetness level by using less honey or opt for alternatives like agave syrup or coconut sugar. For those avoiding gluten, substitute the all-purpose flour with oat flour or almond flour, though the texture may vary. These adjustments can make the recipe fit various dietary preferences while maintaining the delicious flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are delightful on their own but can be elevated with a few simple add-ons. Consider serving them with a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast. Adding fresh sliced strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can also enhance the presentation and flavor. If you're feeling creative, top your brownies with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt to intensify the chocolate flavor.

For a special touch, serve them warm from the oven on a chilly evening alongside a cup of coffee or herbal tea. The warm brownie combined with the comforting beverage makes for a delightful dessert experience. I often bring these brownies to potlucks or family gatherings—they're a hit and provide a healthier option for everyone to enjoy!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute cottage cheese with something else?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt for a similar texture and taste.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

→ Are these brownies gluten-free?

They can be made gluten-free by using almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.