Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels
If you’ve ever craved homemade bagels but didn’t want to mess with boiling water, yeast, or waiting around, this one’s for you. These cottage cheese bagels come out soft, golden, and have more protein than you’d expect, all thanks to the cottage cheese mixed right into the dough. They only take a few ingredients and about half an hour, which makes them perfect for rushed mornings, quick lunches, or a low-key weekend brunch at home.
What I like most is how easy these are—no proofing, no rising, no drama. Just mix the dough, shape it, give it a quick brush, and bake. The cottage cheese keeps the inside moist and tender while the outside bakes up with a nice crust. If you want an extra smooth texture, you can blend the cottage cheese first, but honestly, it works great either way.
There’s plenty of room to switch things up too. I usually go with poppy seeds, but sesame, everything bagel seasoning, or even shredded cheese would be great here. You can eat them plain, toasted, or stacked with cream cheese, avocado, or smoked salmon. They also keep really well, so I like to stash a few in the fridge or freezer and warm one up whenever I’m in the mood for something homemade but easy.
Whether you’re making them for breakfast sandwiches or as a snack with your favorite spread, these cottage cheese bagels are a must-try for anyone who wants fresh, homemade bread without the hassle. It’s one of my favorite cottage cheese recipes!
Tips for Perfect Cottage Cheese Bagels
- Blend the cottage cheese for smoother dough – This step is optional but helps if you prefer a softer crumb and easier mixing.
- Use plain flour, not self-raising – You’ll already have baking powder in the mix, so skip the self-raising flour to avoid over-leavening.
- Flour your surface – The dough can be a little sticky, so lightly flour your hands and surface to make shaping easier.
- Don’t skip the egg wash – Brushing with egg helps the bagels get that golden, bakery-style finish.
- Bake until golden – They should be puffed and lightly browned on top. If they still feel soft underneath, give them another couple of minutes in the oven.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (120g) plain flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup (250g) cottage cheese
- 1 egg (optional, for brushing)
- Poppy seeds, for topping
Instructions
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
2. Prepare the Cottage Cheese
(Optional) For smoother dough, blend the cottage cheese until creamy.
3. Make the Dough
Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the cottage cheese. Mix everything together until a dough forms.
4. Shape the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Divide it into 4 equal sections. Roll each section into a log about 4 cm thick, then connect the ends to form a bagel shape with a hole in the middle.
5. Prepare for Baking
Crack and whisk the egg in a small bowl. Brush the top of each bagel with the egg wash. Sprinkle poppy seeds on top.
6. Bake the Bagels
Place the bagels on a lined baking tray and bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 25 minutes, or until golden and firm to the touch.
7. Let Them Cool
Remove from the oven and let the bagels cool on a rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing or serving.
How to Store and Reheat Cottage Cheese Bagels
Store the bagels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months. To defrost, pop them in the toaster or warm them in the oven for a better texture. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the outer crust crispy.
Ways to Serve Cottage Cheese Bagels
- As a breakfast sandwich – Slice and fill with eggs, cheese, avocado, or smoked salmon for a hearty start to your day.
- Toasted with spreads – These are perfect with cream cheese, butter, nut butters, or even hummus.
- As a snack or mini lunch – Add sliced veggies and deli meats for a balanced mid-day meal.
- Open-faced – Top with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil for a simple, Mediterranean-style snack.
- Kid-friendly option – Toasted and cut into halves or quarters, these are great for lunchboxes or afternoon snacks.
These cottage cheese bagels are quick, satisfying, and much easier to make than traditional ones. Once you try them, you might not go back to store-bought!
