Nutty Cottage Cheese Brownie Tart

Name: Nutty Cottage Cheese Brownie Tart
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup mixed nuts, chopped; 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Dessert Recipe Collection

I absolutely love creating desserts that surprise and delight, and this Nutty Cottage Cheese Brownie Tart is no exception. It's a unique twist on traditional brownies, incorporating cottage cheese for added creaminess and protein. Each bite is a mix of rich chocolate flavor and crunchy nuts, which makes it not only indulgent but also satisfying. Whether it's for a gathering or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:34:29.397Z

When I first experimented with cottage cheese in my brownies, I couldn't believe how wonderfully it enriched the texture. The key is to blend the cottage cheese until smooth so that it integrates seamlessly into the batter, offering a unique creaminess without compromising the delicious chocolate flavor. Each slice of this tart reveals not only the beautiful layered look but also the satisfying crunch of the nuts, which add a delightful contrast.

One of my favorite tips is to use a mix of nuts—walnuts, pecans, or even hazelnuts work beautifully. Not only does this enhance the flavor profile, but the variety of textures takes each bite to the next level. I often serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent finish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy cottage cheese
Nutty texture that provides a satisfying crunch
Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a quiet night in

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The cottage cheese in this tart not only adds creaminess but also boosts the protein content, making it a more nutritious dessert option. I recommend using full-fat cottage cheese for a richer taste, but if you're aiming for lower fat, low-fat cottage cheese can work too. Just ensure it’s blended until completely smooth to avoid any lumps in the final texture.

Choosing your chocolate wisely enhances the flavor significantly. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate chips with at least 70% cocoa to impart a deep, rich taste that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar beautifully. If you prefer, feel free to swap in milk chocolate chips for a sweeter option, but adjustments to sugar may be necessary.

Baking Techniques

When baking the tart, it's crucial to keep an eye on it during the last few minutes. Since oven temperatures can vary, check for doneness when the edges start to pull away from the sides and the center looks slightly puffed and set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, but it shouldn't be wet, indicating that it’s ready to come out.

Let the tart cool in the pan briefly before transferring to a wire rack. If you skip this step, the tart may break apart, causing an uneven texture. Cooling helps the flavors meld while also ensuring that it holds its shape when cut. For an extra touch, sprinkle a few additional chopped nuts on top right after it comes out of the oven.

Ingredients

Gather these wholesome ingredients to create your Nutty Cottage Cheese Brownie Tart.

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/2 cup mixed nuts, chopped
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Make sure to measure accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your tart.

Preheat the Oven

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

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, cocoa powder, brown sugar, flour, baking powder, vanilla extract, and eggs. Mix until well combined.

Add the Nuts and Chocolate

Fold in the chopped mixed nuts and dark chocolate chips into the batter.

Bake the Tart

Pour the batter into the prepared tart pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until the edges start to pull away from the pan.

Cool and Serve

Allow the tart to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream.

Enjoy the satisfaction of baking your own sweet treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a bit of espresso powder to the brownie batter. It enhances the chocolate taste beautifully!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Nutty Cottage Cheese Brownie Tart can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer preservation, you can refrigerate it for about a week. If you decide to freeze it, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top bag, where they'll keep well for up to two months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.

For serving, consider pairing the tart with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an elegant presentation. A dollop of whipped cream complements the rich flavors beautifully, adding a light, airy contrast that balances the dense brownie texture.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Walnuts or pecans work wonderfully, but if you're nut-free, try incorporating seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens. You could also stir in some dried fruits to the mix for added chewiness and flavor complexity.

To make this tart gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Most blends will behave similarly in this recipe, allowing you to enjoy the same delicious flavors without compromising texture. Always be sure to check your labels for cross-contamination if you have severe gluten allergies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

Yes, you can use ricotta or Greek yogurt if you prefer.

→ How should I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the brownie tart?

Yes, you can freeze it. Just wrap it tightly and it should last up to 2 months.

→ What can I serve with the tart?

It pairs wonderfully with ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries.