Cottage Cheese Bagels are fluffy and tasty treats. They combine the creaminess of cottage cheese with the chewiness of bagels, making them great for breakfast or a snack.
These bagels are super easy to make and packed with protein. I love spreading a little butter or cream cheese on mine—it’s a perfect combo! Who wouldn’t love a bagel that’s as fun to make as it is to eat? 🥯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: For a creamy texture, go for full-fat cottage cheese. If you’re looking for a lighter option, low-fat works too but may alter the texture slightly. Non-dairy alternatives like silken tofu can also fit, but the taste will vary.
Self-Rising Flour: This is key for the dough’s rise. If you don’t have it, you can make your own by mixing 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour with 2 1/4 teaspoons baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt, which is great in a pinch.
Everything Bagel Seasoning: This adds fantastic flavor! If you don’t have it, a sprinkle of sesame seeds or poppy seeds alone works fine too. I love adding a little chopped fresh herbs for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Shape Bagels?
Shaping bagels can be tricky, but it’s easier than it seems! Here’s how to make perfect holes:
- After dividing your dough into portions, roll each piece into a smooth ball.
- Using your finger, poke a hole in the center. Start small, about 1 inch, and then gently stretch the hole larger to around 1.5–2 inches.
- Make sure the hole is pretty big, as it may close up a bit during baking.
This technique is crucial to getting that classic bagel shape and texture. Happy baking!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Bagels?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full fat for best texture)
- 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour (plus extra for kneading)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 egg white (for egg wash)
- Everything bagel seasoning (or a mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic flakes, onion flakes, and salt)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25–30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes to enjoy your delicious homemade bagels!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is super important to ensure even baking. While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cottage cheese and salt. Stir them together until well combined. Next, gradually add the self-rising flour to the cheese mixture, mixing with a spoon until a slightly sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Sprinkle a little extra flour on your hands if needed, and gently knead the dough for about 2-3 minutes until smooth. If the dough is too sticky, dust it with a bit more flour as you knead.
4. Shape the Bagels:
Divide your dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball. To form the bagels, poke a hole in the center of each ball with your finger, and gently stretch the hole to about 1.5–2 inches in diameter. This is where the classic bagel shape comes from!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Place the shaped bagels onto the prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space to rise. In a small bowl, whisk the egg white until frothy, then brush the tops of each bagel with it. This will make them golden and shiny when baked.
6. Add Seasoning & Bake:
Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning generously over the tops of the bagels. Then, pop them in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
7. Cool & Serve:
Once done, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. These fluffy bagels are delicious on their own or with your favorite spread!
Enjoy your homemade protein-packed cottage cheese bagels!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta or cream cheese for a different flavor and texture, but keep in mind that this may affect the final consistency of the bagels.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in herbs, grated cheese, or even cooked bacon bits for extra flavor. Just be cautious not to add too much, as it can affect the dough’s structure.
How Should I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, wrap them tightly and freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or pop them in the toaster to reheat!
Can I Make These Bagels Gluten-Free?
You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix that includes xanthan gum in place of self-rising flour. This will give you a similar texture, but results may vary, so be sure to check the package instructions for best results.