Cottage Cheese Microwave Brownie
Ingredients:
1/2 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat, depending on your preference)
2 tablespoons almond flour (or another gluten-free flour like coconut flour or oat flour)
1 tablespoon cocoa powder (unsweetened)
1 tablespoon sweetener (you can use stevia, honey, maple syrup, or any sweetener of your choice)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1 egg (for binding and extra protein)
Pinch of salt (optional, but helps enhance the flavor)
2 tablespoons milk (dairy or dairy-free milk like almond milk or oat milk)
1-2 tablespoons chocolate chips (optional, for added indulgence)
Instructions:
1. Blend the Cottage Cheese:
In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until it’s smooth. This will make it easier to incorporate into the brownie batter and avoid any lumps.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a microwave-safe mug or bowl, combine the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir these dry ingredients together.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
To the dry ingredients, add the blended cottage cheese, egg, milk, sweetener, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until smooth. You want a thick, smooth batter. If it feels too thick, you can add a little extra milk to loosen it up.
4. Optional Chocolate Chips:
If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them into the batter now.
5. Microwave the Brownie:
Microwave the mixture in the mug or bowl for 1 minute and 30 seconds to 2 minutes, depending on the power of your microwave. Start with 1 minute and check the brownie. It should look set on the edges but slightly soft in the center.
6. Check and Adjust:
If the center is still a little gooey, microwave for another 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overcook, or it might become too dry.
7. Cool and Serve:
Let the brownie cool for a minute or two, and then enjoy straight from the mug or bowl. You can top it with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a few extra chocolate chips for a treat!
Nutritional Benefits:
High in protein: The cottage cheese and egg add significant protein content.
Gluten-free: Almond flour ensures the brownie is gluten-free.
Customizable sweetness: You can adjust the sweetness to your liking with your preferred sweetener.
This recipe is perfect for when you’re craving a quick, high-protein dessert that won’t derail your nutritional goals!