Nutty Cottage Cheese Brownie Tart

Name: Nutty Cottage Cheese Brownie Tart
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans); 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Home-Style Dessert Bakes

I absolutely love creating desserts that combine unexpected ingredients for delightful results. This Nutty Cottage Cheese Brownie Tart is one of my favorites because it brings together the rich flavors of chocolate with the creamy texture of cottage cheese. The nutty crunch adds a wonderful dimension that elevates the dessert beyond the usual brownies. In just a short time, you can make a tart that’s not only satisfying but also packed with protein, making it a guilt-free indulgence in my book!

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:45:28.001Z

When I first experimented with using cottage cheese in a brownie recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome. The tartness of the cottage cheese cuts through the richness of the chocolate, enhancing the overall flavor. I also discovered that a blend of finely chopped nuts adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy filling wonderfully.

The technique of blending the cottage cheese until smooth before mixing it with the chocolate batter was crucial in achieving the perfect texture. I’ve found that baking it in a tart form allows for an elegant presentation while keeping the center soft and fudgy. This recipe has become a go-to for gatherings!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Deliciously rich chocolate flavor enhanced by creamy cottage cheese
Nutty crunch adds a satisfying texture that's hard to resist
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for both casual and special occasions

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Using cottage cheese in this Nutty Cottage Cheese Brownie Tart creates a rich, creamy consistency that blends beautifully with the chocolate. The protein in the cottage cheese not only enhances the nutritional value but also helps maintain the tart's moisture, making it a guilt-free indulgence. If you're looking to reduce fat even further, consider using low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese, but ensure to blend it well to avoid any grainy texture.

The combination of cocoa powder and chocolate chips provides a deep, chocolatey flavor profile that's essential for a successful brownie tart. Using high-quality chocolate chips can significantly elevate the final taste; opt for semi-sweet or dark chocolate based on your preference. When mixing in the cocoa, be sure to sift it to prevent any lumps, ensuring a smooth batter that bakes evenly.

Baking Tips for Perfection

When baking the tart, keep a close eye on it after the 20-minute mark. The edges should look slightly set and may start to pull away from the sides of the pan. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating that it's perfectly baked. Remember, it will continue cooking slightly as it cools down in the pan, so avoid overbaking.

If you find that your batter is too thick after combining all the ingredients, you can add a tablespoon of milk or water to loosen it up. This will help achieve a more spreadable consistency without compromising the overall texture. Conversely, if the batter seems too runny, a tablespoon of extra flour can help stabilize it before baking.

Ingredients

For the Tart

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Directions

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch tart pan with non-stick spray or butter.

Blend the Cottage Cheese

In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until completely smooth. This will help achieve a creamy texture.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the smooth cottage cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until fully integrated.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir this mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Add Chocolate and Nuts

Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake the Tart

Pour the batter into the prepared tart pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the tart to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!

Enjoy Your Treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra hint of flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the batter. It enhances the chocolate taste without being overpowering.

Serving Suggestions

This brownie tart can be served warm or at room temperature, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings. For an extra touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which contrasts nicely with the tart's rich flavors. Drizzling a bit of chocolate or caramel sauce on top can also elevate the dessert visually and gastronomically.

For a more decadent option, add a sprinkle of sea salt on top just before serving. This enhances the chocolate flavor and provides a delightful contrast to the sweetness. Fresh berries or a fruit compote on the side can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the tart.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To store the Nutty Cottage Cheese Brownie Tart, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week. If you prefer, you can freeze slices in an airtight container for up to three months; just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

For make-ahead options, you can prepare the batter a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld, giving you an even richer tart. Just give it a quick stir before pouring into the tart pan and baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well, but it may slightly alter the texture.

→ What type of nuts are best for this recipe?

I recommend walnuts or pecans for a great nutty flavor, but any nut you like can work.

→ Can this tart be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make it a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and let it come to room temperature before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.