Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.

In another bowl, mix the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Fold in chocolate chips if using.

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.

Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cut into squares and enjoy!