Cottage Cheese Bagels are incredibly easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients. Unlike classic bagels that involve yeast, rising, and boiling, these come together in one bowl and bake in under 30 minutes. They’re naturally high in protein and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Great for meal prep or a quick weekday breakfast, these bagels are both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, flour, baking powder, salt, and one egg. Stir until a dough forms.
Lightly flour your hands and shape the dough into 4–6 equal portions. Roll each into a rope and form into a bagel shape.
Place the shaped bagels onto the prepared baking sheet.
Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the tops of the bagels.
Sprinkle your desired toppings on each bagel.
Bake for 22–28 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown and cooked through.
Let them cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 to 6 bagels. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
Use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a different texture and tang.
Add shredded cheddar, parmesan, or herbs directly into the dough for a flavor twist.
Make mini bagels by dividing the dough into smaller portions.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free flour depending on dietary needs.
Mix in chopped jalapeños, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives for savory variations.
Storage/Reheating
Store bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, slice and toast in a toaster or oven until warm and slightly crispy. You can freeze these bagels by wrapping them individually and storing in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat from frozen.
FAQs
Are these bagels chewy like traditional bagels?
They are softer and more tender due to the cottage cheese, but still have a nice bite. Not as dense as traditional boiled bagels.
Can I use low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese?
Yes, but full-fat cottage cheese gives the best flavor and texture. Low-fat versions will work, but may result in a slightly drier dough.
Do I need to strain the cottage cheese?
If your cottage cheese is very wet or curdy, straining can help avoid excess moisture. However, many recipes work well without straining.
Can I make these bagels gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. The texture may vary slightly.
How much protein is in each bagel?
Each bagel typically contains around 10–12 grams of protein, depending on the size and ingredients used.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
It’s best to bake the bagels right after shaping. The dough can become sticky or dense if it sits too long.
What’s the best way to serve these bagels?
They’re delicious toasted with cream cheese, nut butter, or avocado. You can also use them for breakfast sandwiches.
Can I use self-rising flour?
Yes, but reduce or omit the baking powder and salt since self-rising flour already contains those.
Are these bagels keto-friendly?
No, they contain flour which is not keto. However, you could experiment with almond flour or coconut flour for a lower-carb version.
Can I use a stand mixer for the dough?
Yes, a stand mixer with a paddle attachment can mix the dough easily, especially if doubling the batch.
Conclusion
Cottage Cheese Bagels are a nutritious, protein-packed alternative to traditional bagels, offering a delicious and quick homemade option. With no yeast or complicated steps, they’re perfect for busy mornings or healthy snacking. Soft, satisfying, and customizable—once you try them, you’ll want to keep a batch on hand at all times.
Cottage Cheese Bagels are high-protein, soft, and chewy bagels made without yeast or boiling. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, they’re perfect for breakfast, snacking, or making sandwiches. The cottage cheese adds moisture and protein, making them a nutritious alternative to traditional bagels.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 egg. Stir until a soft dough forms.
Lightly flour your hands and divide the dough into 4–6 equal portions. Roll each into a rope and form into a bagel shape.
Place the shaped bagels onto the prepared baking sheet.
Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the tops of the bagels.
Sprinkle with desired toppings.
Bake for 22–28 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use full-fat cottage cheese for best texture, but low-fat versions will also work.If cottage cheese is very wet, strain slightly to avoid excess moisture.Add herbs or cheese to the dough for a savory variation.To freeze, wrap cooled bagels individually and store for up to 2 months.Use gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
