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, pureed; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brewed espresso, cooled; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first made these Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso, I was surprised by how much I loved the combination. The rich chocolate flavor paired with the espresso creates a delightful treat that satisfies my sweet cravings without any guilt. The cottage cheese adds a unique creaminess that I never thought would work in brownies, but it does! Each bite is a perfect balance of moistness and texture, and I can't wait to share this recipe with friends and family.

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:40:13.967Z

These Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso are a game-changer for anyone looking to indulge without overdoing it. When I first experimented with replacing butter with cottage cheese, I was amazed by the creaminess it provided while reducing calories. My friends couldn't believe their taste buds when they tried these brownies - they were none the wiser about the healthier ingredients!

One of my favorite tips is to really let the espresso shine through by using a quality brew. It not only intensifies the chocolate flavor but also elevates the entire brownie experience. Trust me, once you've tried these, regular brownies just won't cut it!

        Reasons You'll Love These Brownies
        Surprisingly light yet indulgent texture
Unique blend of cottage cheese for added richness
Espresso elevates the chocolate experience

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

In this recipe, pureed cottage cheese serves as a surprising but delightful addition, providing moisture and a creamy texture that traditional brownie recipes often lack. Its high protein content contributes to the brownies' satisfying texture, making them feel hearty without being overly dense. Purée the cottage cheese well to ensure a smooth incorporation into the batter; any lumps can create an uneven texture in the final product.

Using cottage cheese also allows these brownies to remain lower in fat compared to ones made with butter or oil. If you're looking for an even healthier option, you could opt for low-fat cottage cheese. However, be cautious—as substituting with fat-free alternatives might alter the texture and moisture balance. A good balance is crucial to achieving that perfect brownie consistency.

Espresso's Chocolate Elevation

Adding brewed espresso to brownies intensifies the chocolate flavor remarkably. The bitterness of the espresso works in harmony with the cocoa, creating a depth of flavor that enhances each bite. For an extra kick, consider using a dark roast espresso; not only does it lend a robust flavor, but it also amplifies the richness of the chocolate. Make sure your espresso is cooled before adding it to prevent cooking the eggs in the batter.

If you find you're without brewed espresso, a good substitute would be strong brewed coffee, but you may want to reduce the amount slightly to avoid overpowering the chocolate. Adjusting the liquid content is key; this ensures the batter remains optimal for baking. When done right, the combination of chocolate and espresso can transport you to a coffeehouse experience right in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for the best results:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to measure out everything carefully for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious brownies:

Preheat and Prepare

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine pureed cottage cheese, sugar, eggs, espresso, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips if using.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delicious brownies with friends or on your own!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of coffee liqueur to the batter!

Storage Tips

To keep your Cottage Cheese Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you live in a particularly humid environment, refrigeration may be beneficial as it can prolong freshness. Be mindful, though, as refrigeration can change the texture, making them a bit firmer.

For longer storage, consider freezing the brownies. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature—I find letting them sit out for about 30 minutes gives the best texture.

Customizations and Variations

Feel free to experiment with add-ins to personalize your Cottage Cheese Brownies! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add crunch and flavor, while a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking can enhance sweetness and provide a delightful contrast. For a fruity twist, try folding in some dried cherries or chopped dark chocolate for an intriguing flavor profile.

If you're following dietary restrictions, these brownies can easily be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Just keep in mind that these alternatives may slightly affect the texture, so adjust the baking time as necessary, and check doneness earlier than the recipe suggests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works just as well and helps keep the calorie count down.

→ Can I substitute the espresso with coffee?

Absolutely! Brewed coffee can be used in place of espresso for a similar flavor.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Yes, these brownies freeze well. Just wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months!