Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 cup espresso, brewed and cooled; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love experimenting in the kitchen, and these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso have quickly become a favorite of mine! The creamy texture of the cottage cheese adds moisture, making the brownies incredibly rich yet surprisingly light. Pairing the humble cottage cheese with the bold flavors of espresso creates a delightful contrast that elevates the usual brownie experience. I can truly say they are perfect for a pick-me-up treat or for when I crave something sweet but also a bit sophisticated.

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:13:05.802Z

When I first combined cottage cheese and espresso in a brownie recipe, I was unsure of how the flavors would meld. However, the result was a delightful surprise! The cottage cheese not only adds protein but also an unexpected creaminess that complements the rich chocolate flavor beautifully.

I've learned that using quality espresso is key to achieving the best flavor in these brownies. It’s essential to let the brownie batter sit for a few minutes before baking. This resting time allows the flavors to harmonize, resulting in a truly delectable treat that I can't resist.

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with robust espresso notes.
Creamy texture that keeps each bite moist and delicious.
A unique twist on traditional brownies that impresses guests.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of these brownies is undoubtedly the cottage cheese. By blending it until smooth, you ensure that it integrates seamlessly into the batter, providing moisture and a velvety texture without the need for excessive fats. This not only reduces calories but also enhances the rich flavor profile of the chocolate and espresso. The choice of unsweetened cocoa powder is crucial as it forms the base for the brownies' chocolate essence, allowing the natural sweetness from the sugars to shine through.

Speaking of sugars, a combination of granulated and brown sugars gives depth to the sweetness while enhancing the fudgy texture. Brown sugar, with its molasses content, contributes a subtle caramel flavor that pairs beautifully with the espresso. If you're looking to make this recipe healthier, consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like erythritol, keeping in mind that it may alter the moisture level slightly.

Baking Tips for Success

For perfect brownies, ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C). An oven thermometer can help verify the temperature, as even minor discrepancies can lead to over or underbaking. You’ll know the brownies are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so keep a close eye on them as they approach the 25-minute mark.

Another practical tip involves the cooling process. Allowing the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes helps set their structure, making them easier to cut without crumbling. If you're in a hurry, placing them in the fridge for a few minutes can speed up the cooling process. For a clean cut, run a knife under hot water before slicing, as this will give you a smooth edge on each brownie.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup espresso, brewed and cooled
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

How to Make Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and both sugars until well combined.

Blend Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the blended cottage cheese, cooled espresso, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. If using, stir in the chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Pro Tips

For added richness, consider drizzling melted dark chocolate on top before serving. Adjust the espresso quantity to your taste preference for intensity.

Serving Suggestions

These Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso can be enjoyed plain, but they also pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Drizzling a bit of dark chocolate or caramel sauce on top elevates the plate presentation and adds extra flavor complexity. For a bit of crunch, consider sprinkling some chopped nuts on top after the brownies have cooled.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt to the batter for an unexpected flavor twist. You can also swap out some espresso for a flavored coffee, such as hazelnut or caramel, to add unique notes to your brownies. These variations keep the recipe fresh and exciting every time you make it.

Storing and Freezing

To store your brownies, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They will last at room temperature for about 2-3 days, or you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Be sure to layer parchment paper between the brownies to prevent them from sticking together. The flavors often deepen after a day, making them even more delicious as time goes on.

For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Cut the brownies into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to revitalize that fudgy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes! Low-fat cottage cheese works well but may alter the texture slightly.

→ What can I substitute for espresso?

You can use strong brewed coffee or even decaf coffee for a similar flavor.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.