01 - 
                Set the oven temperature to 175°C and prepare an 20x20 cm baking pan lined with parchment paper.
              
              
              
                02 - 
                Blend the cottage cheese until smooth and creamy, then add eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract; blend again until fully combined.
              
              
              
                03 - 
                In a separate bowl, whisk together almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until evenly distributed.
              
              
              
                04 - 
                Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated to avoid overmixing.
              
              
              
                05 - 
                If desired, fold in the dark chocolate chips evenly throughout the batter.
              
              
              
                06 - 
                Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and spread into an even layer. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
              
              
              
                07 - 
                Allow the baked goods to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing into 9 equal portions.