Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon espresso powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso! A delightful twist that not only adds richness but also makes these brownies surprisingly light and moist. The combination of creamy cottage cheese with a punch of espresso creates an indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're serving them at a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, these brownies will surely impress everyone. I can't wait for you to try them – they're a game changer in the brownie department!

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:55:13.532Z

When I first experimented with incorporating cottage cheese into brownies, I was skeptical. Would it really work? But after blending it smoothly with the chocolate and espresso, I found it created a beautifully fudgy texture that was simply irresistible. The espresso elevates the chocolate flavor without overpowering it, making these brownies rich but not overly sweet.

Each bite is a delightful balance of flavors, and I love serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you want a bit of crunch, sprinkling some walnuts on top before baking adds a nice texture contrast. Trust me; you’ll be hooked!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with coffee notes from espresso
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Understanding the Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese plays a crucial role in these brownies, providing moisture and a rich, creamy texture without the heaviness of traditional fat sources like butter or oil. It contributes a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the sugars. When blended, it becomes velvety, making sure the brownies are still rich while maintaining a surprisingly light bite.

Additionally, using cottage cheese increases the protein content of the brownies, which can make you feel more satisfied. If you're looking for a healthier twist, opt for low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese; just ensure it's well-blended to maintain the dessert’s creamy consistency.

Perfecting the Espresso Flavor

Espresso powder adds a depth of flavor to the brownies that elevates them from ordinary to extraordinary. When choosing espresso powder, go for a high-quality brand to ensure a robust coffee flavor that is detectable without overpowering the chocolate. This addition not only deepens the overall taste but also enhances the richness of the chocolate, giving a subtle coffee undertone that complements the sweetness beautifully.

For an even bolder coffee experience, consider substituting a brewed espresso shot for part of the liquid ingredients. Just make sure to reduce the amount of sugar slightly to balance the added sweetness from the espresso.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

These Cottage Cheese Brownies can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert or top them with whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder for a refined presentation. They also pair wonderfully with a side of fresh berries, which can help cut through the richness.

For storage, keep the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature for about 1 hour or heat in the microwave for a few seconds until just warm.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon espresso powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Mix well and make sure there are no lumps in the cottage cheese for a smooth batter.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Ingredients

In a blender, combine cottage cheese, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, espresso powder, and salt.

Mix Everything Together

Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.

Enjoy your delicious Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso either warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor twist, try substituting the espresso powder with a teaspoon of instant coffee granules for a different coffee kick.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies turn out too dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. To achieve a lighter texture, mix the wet and dry ingredients gently just until combined and avoid overworking the batter. Also, make sure your cottage cheese is smooth before adding it to the mix, as lumps can lead to uneven texture.

Another common issue is underbaking, which can result in overly gooey brownies. When baking, start checking for doneness at the 25-minute mark. Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Experimenting with Variations

Feel free to experiment with the flavor profile of your brownies! Adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract can provide a lovely warming note that enhances the chocolate and espresso combination. You can also fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a nutty flavor.

If you're looking to switch up the chocolate aspect, use dark chocolate chips for a richer taste or white chocolate chips for a sweeter contrast. Just keep in mind that different chocolates may slightly alter the sweetness of your brownies, so adjust the sugar accordingly.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're hosting a larger gathering and want to double the recipe, you can easily do so. Just use a larger baking pan, such as a 13x9 inch, and keep an eye on the baking time, as it may increase slightly—start checking for doneness around the 35-minute mark.

For smaller portions, you can halve the ingredients and use a smaller pan, such as an 8x8 inch. The baking time may remain similar, but check earlier to avoid overbaking. Scaling the recipe allows for more flexibility and ensures you have just the right amount for your occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese can be used, but it may slightly alter the texture.

→ Can I make these brownies vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use a vegan chocolate for the chocolate chips.

→ How should I store leftover brownies?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.