Cottage Cheese Brownies with Orange Zest

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Orange Zest
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; Zest of 1 orange; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I've always loved experimenting with healthier dessert options, and when I stumbled upon the idea of using cottage cheese in brownies, I couldn't resist. It intrigued me to think that a creamy dairy product could transform a classic chocolate treat into something more nutritious. The addition of fresh orange zest breathes a new life into these brownies, creating a delightful contrast that elevates the flavor profile. Trust me, once you try these brownies, you won't go back to the traditional recipes!

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:52:13.354Z

As I was making these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Orange Zest, I was surprised by how simple yet fulfilling the process was. Combining cottage cheese with cocoa powder and sweetener resulted in a batter that was not only luscious but also guilt-free. I found it fascinating how the smooth texture contributed to the overall decadence, making these brownies a perfect treat for any time of the day.

I particularly enjoyed the burst of citrus from the orange zest, which balanced the richness of the chocolate. To enhance the flavor even further, I recommend using freshly grated zest, as it can truly elevate the entire dish. These brownies became an instant hit with my family, and I’m certain they will win your heart as well!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Elevating Flavor with Orange Zest

The addition of fresh orange zest not only enhances the flavor of these brownies but also adds a vibrant aroma that complements the rich chocolate. When zesting the orange, use a microplane grater for the finest texture and to capture only the outer layer of the peel, avoiding the bitter white pith. This small detail makes a significant difference in the final taste, lending a refreshing brightness that cuts through the sweetness of the honey or maple syrup.

Orange zest also brings natural oils from the rind, contributing to the brownies' overall moistness. If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with other citrus zest, such as lemon or lime, each adding its own unique twist to the brownie flavor. Just remember to adjust the amount according to your preference; a little goes a long way in enhancing the dessert's profile.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To ensure your brownies have the ideal texture, it's crucial to blend the wet ingredients until they are completely smooth. If your cottage cheese is lumpy, consider using a high-speed blender or food processor, as this will help achieve that creamy consistency. Pay attention to the blending time; typically, 30 seconds to 1 minute should suffice. Over-blending can introduce air into the mixture, possibly resulting in cake-like brownies instead of the desired fudgy end product.

When mixing the dry ingredients, use a fine sieve to sift together the flour, cocoa, and baking powder. This process removes lumps and ensures even distribution of the baking powder for a consistent rise. Additionally, folding the wet mixture into the dry ingredients gently will help maintain the brownies' density. Aim for a mixture that is well combined but still thick and slightly chunky—this indicates a rich, fudgy brownie.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
Zest of 1 orange
1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until well-combined.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and eggs. Blend until smooth.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, orange zest, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the blended wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Bake

Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before cutting them into squares and serving.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious brownies!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, serve these brownies with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies can be refrigerated for up to a week, making them a convenient treat to prepare in advance. Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. If you're preparing for an event, consider making them a day or two ahead of time; they actually taste better after they sit, as the flavors meld together. Just bring them to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.

If you need a longer storage solution, these brownies freeze beautifully. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or microwave them for a quick and satisfying treat.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize these brownies to your taste! For a richer chocolate flavor, you can substitute half of the cocoa powder with dark chocolate melted into the wet ingredients. This addition will add complexity and depth to the flavor profile, enhancing the overall chocolate experience. You can also stir in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor; walnuts or pecans would be delightful compliments.

If you're aiming for a lower-calorie option, you could replace the honey or maple syrup with a sugar-free alternative like erythritol or stevia, adjusting the quantity according to the sweetness level preference. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture, so look for products that mimic the moisture of honey or syrup to maintain the fudgy consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

Yes, you can use ricotta cheese for a similar creamy texture.

→ How should I store the brownies?

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

→ Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in your favorite nuts or sugar-free chocolate chips for added texture.

→ Is it necessary to use fresh orange zest?

While dried zest can be used, fresh zest provides a much brighter and more fragrant flavor to the brownies.