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; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Wellness Inspiration

I recently tried making Cottage Cheese Brownies with Banana Mash, and the result was astonishing! The combination of cottage cheese and ripe bananas creates a rich and moist brownie that’s both delicious and a bit healthier than your typical dessert. I was pleasantly surprised by how well these ingredients worked together to produce a satisfying treat that my family devoured in record time. If you’re looking for a unique twist on chocolate brownies, this recipe is a must-try!

Created by

Esmeray Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:03:34.980Z

While experimenting in the kitchen, I stumbled upon the idea of using cottage cheese and bananas in brownies. Initially, I was skeptical; could they really replace traditional ingredients? The answer was a delightful surprise! The cottage cheese gave a creamy texture, while the bananas added natural sweetness.

One tip I discovered is that using overripe bananas enhances the flavor significantly, making the brownies more decadent. I also learned that blending these two ingredients well before combining them with the dry mixture is crucial for achieving the perfect consistency.

        Why You Will Love These Brownies
        A unique combination of protein-rich cottage cheese and naturally sweet bananas
Guilt-free indulgence with a rich chocolate flavor
Ideal for a quick snack or a healthier dessert option

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese and Bananas

In this recipe, cottage cheese acts as a secret weapon, providing a protein boost while lending a creamy texture that enhances the moistness of the brownies. Unlike traditional recipes using butter, the cottage cheese makes these brownies both healthier and lighter, reducing saturated fat without compromising on flavor. Be sure to use smooth cottage cheese for the best texture; if you only have curd-style, give it a quick blend in a food processor before mixing.

Ripe bananas not only add natural sweetness but also bind the ingredients together. Their moisture content infuses the brownies with a luscious texture, which is especially important in a recipe that skips heavier fats. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots, signaling optimum ripeness for flavor and mashability. If you’re in a pinch and don’t have bananas, unsweetened applesauce could be a suitable substitute, although the flavor will differ slightly.

Tips for Baking the Perfect Brownies

When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, it’s crucial to combine them until just mixed. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies, defeating the purpose of this soft and gooey treat. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold the ingredients together gently, ensuring no dry flour streaks remain, while retaining the airy texture of the batter. The final mixture should appear glossy and slightly thick, not runny.

For optimal results, keep an eye on the baking time. Ovens can vary widely in temperature accuracy, so start checking your brownies around the 20-minute mark by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re perfect; too dry means they’ve been in too long. Additionally, allowing them to cool fully on a wire rack helps maintain their texture and prevents gummy bottoms.

Ingredients

Gather all the necessary ingredients before you start.

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to preheat your oven as you prepare the mixture.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect brownie experience.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, mashed bananas, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy!

These brownies are best served warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the brownie batter for added texture.

Storing and Freezing Brownies

These cottage cheese brownies store well, making them great for meal prep or snacks throughout the week. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. You can wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to protect against freezer burn. They’ll last up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked feel.

If you plan to serve the brownies at a later date, try rolling them in cocoa powder or powdered sugar after cooling. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also helps to absorb any moisture that might gather, keeping them free from sticky residue. Just be sure to wait until they are completely cool before doing this to prevent smudging.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These brownies can be enjoyed on their own, but you can elevate the experience by pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The warm brownies contrast beautifully with the cold toppings, creating a delightful treat. For a burst of flavor, consider drizzling a homemade chocolate sauce over the top before serving.

If you want to experiment with flavors, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients or a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for an extra chocolatey kick. A sprinkle of sea salt on top after baking can enhance the flavor profile significantly, offering a delightful sweet-and-salty combination. Additionally, a splash of espresso powder added to the wet ingredients can deepen the chocolate flavor without being overly noticeable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute, giving a similar creaminess.

→ How should I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, these brownies freeze well! Wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute.