Cottage Cheese Microwave Brownie: 20g Protein in 90 Seconds

You know those nights when a chocolate craving hits hard, but you’re trying to keep things on the healthier side? Yeah, me too—more often than I’d like to admit. That’s where this Cottage Cheese Microwave Brownie swoops in to save the day. It’s rich, fudgy, and packed with 20 grams of protein, all thanks to a sneaky little ingredient: cottage cheese. And the best part? It’s ready in just 90 seconds. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve whipped this up after a long day when my sweet tooth won’t quit and I’m too tired for a baking marathon. Trust me, this little mug of chocolatey goodness is a game-changer for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Microwave Brownie

Let me tell you why this little brownie is about to become your new best friend:

• 20g of protein – Thanks to the cottage cheese, it’s basically a workout recovery snack masquerading as dessert!
• Done in 90 seconds – Faster than ordering delivery, and way more satisfying
• One mug = zero mess – Just mix, microwave, and eat – no pans to scrub
• Naturally gluten-free – The almond flour keeps it light while adding nutty richness
• Just enough sweetness – With only 8g of sugar, you get that chocolate fix without the crash

The cottage cheese totally disappears into the batter, leaving just the creamiest, fudgiest texture. My husband didn’t even believe there was cottage cheese in it until I showed him the ingredients! It’s the perfect trick for when you want something indulgent but don’t want to feel sluggish afterward.

Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Microwave Brownie

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this protein-packed treat – I bet you already have most of it in your pantry right now! The key is using full-fat cottage cheese – trust me, it makes all the difference in texture. I learned that the hard way when I tried using low-fat once (spoiler: not nearly as rich and creamy).

• 1/4 cup full-fat cottage cheese – The star ingredient that adds protein and moisture
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder – Use the good stuff here for deep chocolate flavor
• 1 tbsp almond flour – Keeps it gluten-free and adds nutty richness
• 1 tbsp maple syrup – Just enough sweetness without going overboard
• 1 egg white – Helps everything bind together perfectly
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – That little flavor booster that makes it taste bakery-quality
• 1/4 tsp baking powder – Gives it just the right lift
• Pinch of salt – Balances all the flavors so beautifully

Optional add-ins when you’re feeling fancy:

• Dark chocolate chips – because more chocolate is always better
• Chopped walnuts or pecans – for that satisfying crunch
• Peanut butter swirl – just a teaspoon makes it taste like a Reese’s cup

See? Nothing crazy or hard to find. The egg white works best at room temperature, so I usually crack my egg first thing when I start prepping – by the time I measure everything else, it’s ready to go!

How to Make Cottage Cheese Microwave Brownie

Get ready for the easiest dessert you’ll ever make – seriously, this might become a dangerous habit! The whole process takes about as long as it takes to find your spoon. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, fudgy brownie in no time. Pro tip: don’t overmix the batter – a few lumps are totally fine, and they’ll actually help keep your brownie tender.

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

Grab a microwave-safe mug that holds at least 12 ounces (trust me, you don’t want overflow!). I like to add all the dry ingredients first – cocoa powder, almond flour, baking powder, and that pinch of salt. Give them a quick stir with a fork to eliminate any cocoa clumps. Then plop in your cottage cheese, egg white, maple syrup, and vanilla. Now just gently mix until everything comes together – about 20 seconds with a fork should do it. The batter will be thick and slightly lumpy, and that’s perfect!

Step 2: Microwave the Brownie

Pop your mug in the microwave and set it for 90 seconds on high power (that’s usually the default setting). About halfway through, your kitchen will start smelling like a chocolate shop – best air freshener ever! After 90 seconds, the top should look set with maybe a couple damp spots (that’s okay – they’ll keep cooking as it cools). Ovens vary, so if yours runs hot, check at 60 seconds. Let it sit for about 2 minutes before digging in – it firms up perfectly and won’t burn your mouth (though I can’t promise I’ve always waited that long!).

Tips for the Perfect Cottage Cheese Microwave Brownie

After making this microwave brownie probably a hundred times (no exaggeration!), I’ve picked up some foolproof tricks to guarantee success every time. First, full-fat cottage cheese is non-negotiable – it makes the texture luxuriously creamy while keeping the protein high. If your batter seems too thick (different brands vary), just stir in a teaspoon of milk to loosen it up. I also like to give my mug a quick spray with coconut oil – just enough to make sure every last crumb slides right out.

Sweetness is totally customizable, too. Swap the maple syrup for honey or sugar-free syrup if you prefer, or throw in a few dark chocolate chips for extra indulgence. The one mistake I made early on? Overcooking. Unless you like hockey pucks, stick to 90 seconds max – it keeps the center gloriously fudgy. If you do slip up and it turns out dry, a scoop of ice cream fixes everything (my guilty pleasure solution).

Cottage Cheese Microwave Brownie Variations

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily you can mix it up! When I’m feeling creative, I love swirling in a spoonful of peanut butter before microwaking – it creates these amazing melty pockets that taste like a peanut butter cup. Chopped walnuts or pecans add the perfect crunch too. For my keto friends, simply swap the maple syrup with sugar-free syrup (I’ve had great results with monk fruit sweetener). Dark chocolate chips are always a winner, but sometimes I’ll fold in a teaspoon of instant coffee for mocha vibes. The options are endless, and every version keeps that protein-packed goodness!

Nutritional Information

Here’s what makes this brownie both delicious and nutritious: each serving packs about 180 calories with a whopping 20g of protein – that’s more than some protein shakes! With just 8g of sugar and 3g of fiber from the almond flour, it satisfies cravings without the crash. (Just a heads up – exact numbers might vary slightly depending on your cottage cheese and maple syrup brands.) Not bad for something that tastes like dessert, right?

FAQ About Cottage Cheese Microwave Brownie

More Easy Protein Desserts to Try

If you enjoyed this cottage cheese brownie, you’ll go nuts for these other protein-packed treats! My Greek Yogurt Chocolate Mug Cake (same 90-second magic with a tangy twist) is always in rotation. For something frosty, try blending frozen banana with peanut butter protein powder for 5-minute “ice cream.” And when I’m craving cookies, my 3-Ingredient Almond Butter Protein Bites hit the spot – no bake required!

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