Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso Swirl

Name: Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso Swirl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder; 1 tablespoon hot water

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I’ve always been a fan of brownies, but I wanted to create a version that feels a bit lighter without sacrificing taste. These Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso Swirl are a delightful mix of rich chocolate and bold coffee flavor, thanks to the creamy cottage cheese. This recipe provides a lovely texture and a unique spin on the classic brownie. It’s the perfect dessert to impress guests or simply indulge on a relaxing evening at home, and everyone will be surprised by the secret ingredient that adds to the richness without the heaviness.

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:45:34.791Z

When I first experimented with cottage cheese in brownies, I was skeptical about how it would turn out. But it truly adds a delightful moisture to the brownies while letting the chocolate flavor shine through. The espresso swirl elevates the sweetness and provides a sophisticated touch that makes these brownies perfect for any occasion.

I learned that blending the cottage cheese until smooth is key to a creamier texture. Also, swirling the espresso gives each brownie a unique look and taste. Once you bite into one, the rich flavors will leave you wanting more!

        You'll Love These Brownies Because
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with a bold espresso twist
Creamy texture that stays moist and satisfying
Surprisingly lighter than traditional brownies, perfect for guilt-free indulgence

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is the star of this brownie recipe, lending a creamy texture without the heaviness usually associated with traditional brownies. It adds moisture and richness, while also offering a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the sugars. When blended until smooth, it integrates seamlessly into the batter, transforming the final product into a delightfully moist treat.

Another advantage of using cottage cheese is its high protein content, which can help make these brownies feel more satisfying. This ingredient also allows you to enjoy all the chocolaty goodness without the guilt that often comes with indulgent desserts. Keep in mind that low-fat cottage cheese can work well, but for best results, I recommend using full-fat for optimal creaminess.

Espresso: The Perfect Addition

The espresso swirl in these brownies is not just a flavor enhancer; it adds visual appeal and an aromatic layer that complements the chocolate perfectly. Instant espresso powder is convenient and dissolves easily, ensuring you achieve a smooth consistency. It introduces a sophisticated coffee flavor that elevates the overall experience, making each bite a little unexpected and delightful.

For those who may not have instant espresso on hand, you can substitute it with finely ground coffee, although the final texture may vary slightly. Just ensure that whatever coffee is used, it is brewed strong enough to maintain that bold flavor without diluting the batter. Remember, a little goes a long way; start with less if you're unsure about your coffee preference.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create delicious Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso Swirl:

For the Brownies

1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Espresso Swirl

2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
1 tablespoon hot water

Make sure everything is ready before you start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make Cottage Cheese Brownies with Espresso Swirl:

Prepare the Espresso Swirl

In a small bowl, mix the espresso powder with hot water until smooth and set aside.

Mix the Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.

Add Espresso Swirl

Pour half of the brownie batter into a greased 9x9-inch baking pan. Drizzle half of the espresso mixture over the batter. Add the remaining brownie batter and top with the rest of the espresso mixture. Use a toothpick to swirl the mixture gently.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the brownies for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean but slightly moist.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy your delicious creation!

Let the brownies cool completely before storing them, so they maintain their texture!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty contrast.

Tips for Baking Success

When preparing your baking pan, use parchment paper for easier removal of brownies after baking. Make sure to grease the pan sides as well if you're not using parchment paper, as this will help prevent sticking. Another handy tip is to use a glass baking dish; it allows you to see the sides of the brownies, preventing over-baking when you're aiming for that perfect gooey center.

Keep an eye on your brownies towards the end of the baking time. The edges should pull away slightly from the pan, and a toothpick should come out clean but with a few moist crumbs. If you bake them too long, they can dry out quickly, losing that rich, fudgy texture.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once cooled, these brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them; cut the brownies into squares and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and enjoy!

For a special touch when serving, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate before presenting. Pairing these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream can take the dessert experience to another level, providing a contrast in temperature and texture. A fresh berry garnish adds not only color but also a bright acidity that complements the chocolate richness beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well, but may result in a slightly different texture.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

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

→ What can I substitute for espresso powder?

You can use strong brewed coffee, but reduce the liquid in the recipe slightly to maintain consistency.