Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon espresso powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first decided to make these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso, I was intrigued by the idea of incorporating cottage cheese into a dessert. The thought of creating a rich, fudgy brownie with a hint of coffee seemed like the perfect way to balance indulgence with a nutritious twist. To my delight, the result was a delightful texture and depth of flavor that exceeded my expectations. Each bite was an irresistible combination of chocolate and espresso that quickly became a favorite in my household, perfect for those coffee-loving friends.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:37:10.568Z

Right after my first bite of these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso, I was amazed at how the cottage cheese contributed to the moisture without being overpowering. It kept the brownies rich and fudgy, while the espresso really enhanced the chocolate flavor. I recommend using high-quality cocoa powder and a dark chocolate for an even deeper taste.

On my second attempt, I decided to sprinkle some dark chocolate chips on top before baking. This added an extra layer of texture and sweetness that was simply irresistible. If you're a fan of coffee and chocolate, this recipe will surely win your heart!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Decadent fudgy texture enhanced by cottage cheese
Rich espresso flavor complements the chocolate perfectly
Nutritious twist that feels indulgent but guilt-free
Easy to make and great for sharing with friends

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

In these brownies, cottage cheese serves a dual purpose. Not only does it provide moisture, but it also adds a unique creaminess that enhances the fudgy texture without the extra calories of traditional fats. When blended smoothly, it integrates seamlessly into the batter, ensuring that the brownies stay rich and satisfying. This ingredient also contributes to the protein content, making these brownies a slightly guilt-free indulgence.

To achieve the best results, ensure that the cottage cheese is well-blended without any lumps. This will prevent any clumps in your brownies that could disrupt the chewy texture. You can use a standard blender or food processor—both work well, but I prefer the processor for a quick and efficient blend.

Espresso Enhancements

The addition of espresso powder is more than just a flavor boost; it helps to intensify the chocolate notes in the brownies. Adding coffee to chocolate dishes can deepen the overall flavor profile without making the dessert taste like coffee. If you’re looking for a stronger coffee kick, consider increasing the espresso powder by an additional half tablespoon, but be careful not to overpower the chocolate base.

For a more rounded flavor, you could substitute espresso powder with finely ground coffee if you can’t find the powder. Just remember to adjust the quantity slightly since ground coffee might impart a bit more bitterness compared to the concentrated espresso powder.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso.

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon espresso powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your delicious brownies.

Preheat the Oven

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

Blend the Cottage Cheese

In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth. This will help incorporate it well into the batter.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sugar, cocoa powder, flour, espresso powder, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the melted butter, blended cottage cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine All Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. If using dark chocolate chips, fold them in gently.

Bake

Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared baking pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before slicing into squares. Enjoy your delicious brownies!

Serve these brownies warm for a gooey experience or at room temperature for a firmer texture.

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, use freshly brewed espresso instead of instant espresso powder. You can also add nuts or swap out the dark chocolate chips for white chocolate for a different twist!

Storage and Freezing

These brownies are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To maintain their fudgy texture, consider placing a slice of bread in the container with the brownies. The moisture from the bread helps prevent the brownies from drying out.

If you're looking to make these brownies ahead of time, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours or warm in the microwave for about 10 seconds before serving.

Serving Suggestions

For an elevated presentation, serve these brownies topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Drizzling warm chocolate ganache over the top adds an extra layer of indulgence that chocolate lovers will adore. You can also sprinkle some grated dark chocolate or a light dusting of cocoa powder for a refined touch.

For a flavor twist, consider pairing your brownies with fresh berries or a fruit compote. This not only adds a pop of color but also balances the richness of the brownies with a refreshing, tart contrast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese, though it will change the flavor slightly.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

→ What can I use instead of espresso powder?

You can substitute espresso powder with brewed espresso or omit it entirely, but the flavor will differ slightly.