Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: No yeast or rising time required—just mix, shape, and bake.
- High in protein: Cottage cheese adds a protein boost, making them more nutritious than regular bagels.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or shredded cheese.
- Great for meal prep: Make a batch, freeze them, and toast as needed.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup self-rising flour (or all-purpose flour with 2 tsp baking powder and a pinch of salt)
- 1 egg white (for brushing)
- Optional toppings: Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds
Directions
- Blend the cottage cheese: In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth.
- Mix the dough: Transfer to a mixing bowl and combine with self-rising flour. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead and shape: Knead the dough lightly, then divide it into four equal portions. Roll each into a rope and form into a bagel shape.
- Brush with egg wash: Place the bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with egg white, and sprinkle with your chosen toppings.
- Bake or air fry:
- Oven method: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Air fryer method: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the bagels cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 bagels
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 25-30 minutes (oven) or 12-15 minutes (air fryer)
- Total time: 35-40 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum and add baking powder.
- Cheesy Bagels: Add shredded cheddar or asiago cheese before baking.
- Sweet Version: Mix in cinnamon and a touch of honey, then top with sugar-free sweetener.
- Extra Protein: Stir in chia seeds or flaxseeds for a nutritional boost.
Storage/Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze sliced bagels in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Toast in a toaster or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the texture may be denser. Add extra moisture if needed.
Do I need a blender for the cottage cheese?
Blending makes it smoother, but you can mix it by hand if you don’t mind small curds.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead?
Yes, but cottage cheese provides more protein. Greek yogurt will still work well.
What’s the best topping for these bagels?
Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or shredded cheese work great.
Can I make mini bagels?
Yes! Just divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the baking time.
How do I keep them from getting too dry?
Don’t overbake, and make sure to let them cool before storing.
Are these bagels keto-friendly?
No, but you can experiment with almond flour, though the texture will be different.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Store them in the fridge or freezer and reheat as needed.
What can I serve these bagels with?
Try cream cheese, avocado, smoked salmon, or a turkey and cheese sandwich.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just scale the ingredients accordingly and bake in batches if needed.
Conclusion
High-protein cottage cheese bagels are an easy, nutritious, and delicious way to enjoy a homemade bagel with fewer carbs and more protein. Whether you bake them in the oven or air fry them, they come out soft, chewy, and perfect for any topping or sandwich combination. Make a batch today and enjoy a healthy bagel alternative anytime!
High-Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes (oven) or 12-15 minutes (air fryer)
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking, Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These high-protein cottage cheese bagels are a simple, nutritious alternative to traditional bagels. With only three ingredients, they are quick to make and perfect for breakfast, a snack, or as a hearty sandwich base. Packed with protein from cottage cheese, these bagels are customizable with your favorite toppings and can be made in the oven or air fryer for a quick, delicious treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup self-rising flour (or 1 cup all-purpose flour with 2 tsp baking powder and a pinch of salt)
- 1 egg white (for brushing)
- Optional toppings: Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds
Instructions
- Blend the cottage cheese: In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth.
- Mix the dough: Transfer the blended cottage cheese to a mixing bowl and combine with self-rising flour. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead and shape: Lightly knead the dough, then divide it into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a rope and shape it into a bagel.
- Brush with egg wash: Place the bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with egg white, and sprinkle with your desired toppings.
- Bake or air fry:
- Oven method: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
- Air fryer method: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Cool and enjoy: Allow the bagels to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum and add baking powder.
- To add a cheesy flavor, sprinkle shredded cheddar or asiago cheese on top before baking.
- For a sweet twist, mix in cinnamon and a little honey, then top with a sugar-free sweetener.
- To boost protein, add chia seeds or flaxseeds to the dough.
