Cottage Cheese Protein Brownies

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sweetener (e.g., Swerve, Erythritol)
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: chocolate chips, nuts, or seeds for added flavor and texture

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, oats, almond flour, cocoa powder, granulated sweetener, protein powder, egg, baking powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. Stir in melted coconut oil and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan.
7. Cut into squares and serve. Optional: top with chocolate chips, nuts, or seeds.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

– Calories: 220
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Fiber: 5g
– Sugar: 5g
– Sodium: 200mg

Tips and Variations:

– Use different flavors of protein powder or extract (e.g., chocolate, peanut butter) to change up the flavor.
– Add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or seeds can enhance texture and flavor.
– For a fudgier texture, bake for 20-22 minutes. For a cakeier texture, bake for 30-35 minutes.

Enjoy your delicious and protein-packed Cottage Cheese Protein Brownies!