Cottage Cheese Brownies with Dark Cherry Swirl

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Dark Cherry Swirl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup dark cherries, pitted and halved; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Dark Cherry Swirl. Combining the rich, dense texture of traditional brownies with the creamy goodness of cottage cheese offers a delightful twist I can't resist. The addition of dark cherries not only elevates the visual appeal but also adds a burst of fruity flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly. It's a dessert that's both indulgent and surprisingly nutritious, making it a favorite for gatherings and a guilt-free treat for myself on a cozy night in.

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:49:14.707Z

When I first decided to experiment with cottage cheese in desserts, I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome. These brownies turned out to be delectably moist while delivering a comforting texture you crave. The hidden swirl of dark cherries is simply irresistible, as it breaks through the richness of the chocolate and delivers a juicy pop of flavor in every bite.

This method works wonders because the cottage cheese replaces some of the fat without compromising taste. I've found that blending the cheese until smooth ensures that the brownies have a velvety texture. It’s my little secret to a healthier yet indulgent treat!

        Why You Will Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with dark cherry swirls
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
A healthier alternative that doesn't compromise on taste

      

Understanding Ingredients

Cottage cheese may seem like an unusual choice for brownies, but it plays a crucial role in creating a moist texture. The high protein content not only boosts the nutritional profile but also allows for a creamy consistency that contrasts beautifully with the dense chocolate base. When blended smooth, it becomes nearly undetectable, adding richness without overpowering the chocolate flavor that is central to these brownies.

Dark cherries are not just a decorative addition; they infuse the brownies with a vibrant flavor that heightens the overall taste experience. Their natural tartness balances the sweetness of the chocolate and sugar, creating a dynamic flavor profile. Choosing ripe, fresh cherries will yield the best results, but frozen cherries can also be used if you're looking to make these brownies outside the cherry season.

Baking Tips and Techniques

When blending the cottage cheese, ensure that it reaches a completely smooth consistency to prevent any grainy texture in the final brownies. I recommend blending in small batches if necessary. A powerful blender or food processor will help achieve a uniform mixture that is critical for integrating with the dry ingredients effectively.

Swirling the cherry mixture into the brownie batter is where you can get creative! Use a gentle hand with your swirling technique to create a marbled effect without overmixing. You want to see swirls of bright cherry alongside deep chocolate; the visual contrast greatly enhances the appeal of your finished treat.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
2 large eggs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup dark cherries, pitted and halved
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Cottage Cheese

In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, cornstarch, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the cottage cheese mixture, mixing until just combined. Stir in the dark chocolate chips.

Prepare the Cherry Swirl

In a small bowl, toss the cherries with a teaspoon of cornstarch to coat. Gently fold half of the cherry mixture into the brownie batter.

Layer and Swirl

Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, followed by the remaining cherry mixture. Top with the rest of the brownie batter and swirl with a spoon.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking, enhancing the flavor profile beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies store wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you plan to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. When ready to serve, simply bring them back to room temperature, or for an indulgent treat, warm them briefly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive their fudgy texture.

If you're looking to make these brownies ahead of time, you can prepare the batter and chill it overnight before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Just ensure to pour the batter into a prepared baking pan right before you're ready to bake to maintain the batter's structure.

Variations and Additions

For those wanting to experiment further, you can try adding a sprinkle of nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the brownie batter before baking, which adds a delightful crunch. Alternatively, swap the dark cherries for raspberries or blueberries for a different fruity twist—it pairs well with chocolate and can offer an exciting change in flavor.

If you're avoiding gluten, substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour works well, although it may alter the texture slightly. Make sure to adjust the baking time as necessary, as gluten-free flours sometimes yield a lighter brownie that might require less time in the oven.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well and will still give a creamy texture.

→ Can I substitute the dark cherries?

Absolutely! You can use other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor.

→ How can I store leftover brownies?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

→ Can these brownies be frozen?

Yes, they freeze well! Place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.