Cottage Cheese Bagels That Taste Amazing

If you’re craving soft, fluffy bagels that are also packed with protein, look no further than Cottage Cheese Bagels. These bagels are easy to make at home, require no yeast or long rise times, and come out soft, golden, and flavorful every time.

The addition of cottage cheese in the dough makes these bagels moist, tender, and protein-rich, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. They are versatile enough to enjoy plain, toasted with cream cheese, or even sliced for sandwiches.

Unlike traditional boiled bagels, these baked bagels are simple and beginner-friendly, but still deliver that classic bagel texture you love. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping for a busy week, these bagels are a healthy, satisfying option that tastes amazing fresh out of the oven.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cottage cheese, well-drained
• 1 large egg
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the dough: In a medium bowl, mix cottage cheese and egg until smooth.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold into the cottage cheese mixture until a soft dough forms.
4. Shape bagels: Divide dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then gently shape into a bagel by poking a hole in the center and stretching slightly.
5. Add toppings: Brush bagels lightly with water and sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning.
6. Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
7. Cool: Let bagels cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Perfect Cottage Cheese Bagels

• Drain well: Ensure cottage cheese is drained to prevent overly wet dough.
• Even shaping: Use your fingers to gently stretch the bagel hole for uniform baking.
• Storage: Store cooled bagels in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Variations

• Cheese bagels: Fold in shredded cheddar or mozzarella into the dough.
• Herb bagels: Add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder for savory flavor.
• Sweet version: Mix in cinnamon and a touch of sugar for breakfast-friendly bagels.

Serving Suggestions

• Toast and top with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or avocado.
• Slice for sandwiches with turkey, lettuce, and tomato.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect morning snack.

Fun Facts

• Cottage cheese bagels are a high-protein alternative to traditional yeast-based bagels.
• No boiling is required—these bagels are baked directly for a quick, easy, and soft result.
• Bagels originated in Eastern Europe and have been adapted into countless creative variations worldwide.

Cottage Cheese Bagels

Soft, protein-packed bagels made with cottage cheese for a quick, easy, and delicious breakfast or snack.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 6 bagels

Course: Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine: American, Healthy

Calories: 170

Ingredients

  

Bagels

• 1 cup cottage cheese well-drained
• 1 egg large
• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 0.5 tsp salt
• toppings sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning optional

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Wire rack

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix cottage cheese and egg until smooth.
3. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold into cottage cheese mixture until soft dough forms.
4. Divide dough into 6 portions, shape into bagels with a hole in the center.
5. Brush with water and sprinkle toppings as desired.
6. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden. Cool on wire rack before serving.

Notes

Ensure cottage cheese is drained to prevent wet dough. Dough can be slightly sticky; flour hands if needed.