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 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup brewed espresso, cooled; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Favorites

I absolutely love making these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso for a delightful twist on a classic dessert. The combination of cottage cheese and espresso creates an unexpectedly rich flavor and a moist texture that keeps you coming back for more. I found that using the right balance of cocoa powder and sugars can elevate the taste, making these brownies feel indulgent yet lighter than traditional recipes. Perfect for a chocolate craving or a cozy get-together, these brownies have become a staple in my baking repertoire.

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:54:35.681Z

When I first discovered the idea of using cottage cheese in brownies, I was skeptical. But after my first bite, I was hooked! The cottage cheese not only adds moisture but also boosts the protein content, making these brownies a guilt-free treat. I love to enhance the flavors with a hint of espresso, which adds depth without being overpowering.

One of the best tips I learned while perfecting this recipe is not to overmix the batter. This keeps the brownies fudgy and chewy. I also recommend letting them cool completely in the pan before slicing to ensure clean edges and a gorgeous presentation!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with bold espresso notes
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Healthier alternative to traditional brownies

      

Perfecting the Brownie Batter

Achieving the right texture in your brownie batter is crucial. The blended cottage cheese not only provides moisture but also adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the sugar. When incorporating the dry ingredients, do it gently; overmixing can lead to denser brownies rather than the desired fudgy texture. Aim for a batter that is smooth and glossy, with no visible flour lumps, but avoid beating vigorously once the dry ingredients are added.

If your brownies seem too thick when adding the dry ingredients to the wet, don’t hesitate to add a tablespoon of additional espresso or water. This not only keeps the batter moist but enhances the espresso flavor. When pouring the batter into the prepared pan, use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring that the brownies bake uniformly for a consistent texture throughout.

Baking and Cooling Tips

Baking these brownies at 350°F (175°C) is essential for even cooking. Since ovens can vary, start checking your brownies a couple of minutes early. You’re looking for the edges to be just slightly pulling away from the pan but the center should still look moist with a toothpick coming out with a few moist crumbs. This ensures a gooey brownie that retains its rich espresso flavor.

After baking, allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes; this helps them firm up a bit, making it easier to slice without them falling apart. If they cool directly on a rack, they might become too crumbly. For the best results, let them cool completely before cutting, which enhances their fudginess and allows the flavors to meld beautifully for that perfect bite.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup brewed espresso, cooled
1/4 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, espresso, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a handful of chocolate chips or walnuts to the batter before baking.

Ingredient Adjustments

If you want to make your brownies even a bit lighter, consider using a low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese. This will maintain the moistness while reducing the overall calories. You might also substitute half of the granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like Stevia or erythritol for a lower-calorie treat without sacrificing sweetness.

If espresso isn't your preference or you want a milder flavor, you can swap it out for strong brewed coffee or even a decaffeinated version. Just ensure that any liquid substitutions, like coffee, are cool before mixing them into the batter to avoid cooking the eggs prematurely.

Serving and Storage

Once cooled and sliced, these brownies can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for an extra indulgent treat. They also pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a more classic presentation. Consider serving them at room temperature to enjoy the full depth of flavors.

For storage, keep these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you’re planning to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months; simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese as alternatives, but it may slightly change the texture.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

→ How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

The brownies are done when the edges are set and the center is slightly gooey; a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.