There’s something truly magical about biting into a warm, homemade bagel—especially when it’s packed with protein, irresistibly chewy, and made with simple ingredients. That’s exactly what you get with cottage cheese bagel recipe! Whether you’re a breakfast enthusiast or just looking for a healthier alternative to store-bought bagels, this recipe is about to become your new favorite.
These cottage cheese bagels are soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and have a subtle tangy flavor that sets them apart from traditional bagels. They’re perfect for busy mornings, post-workout snacks, or even a light yet satisfying lunch. Unlike regular bagels, which can be carb-heavy, these are boosted with protein thanks to the cottage cheese, making them a nourishing choice for anyone trying to eat healthier without sacrificing taste.
What’s even better? This recipe doesn’t require yeast or long proofing times. If you’ve ever been intimidated by bagel-making, this is the perfect beginner-friendly recipe. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick baking process, you’ll have fresh, homemade bagels in under 30 minutes. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—top them with seeds, spread them with cream cheese, or turn them into the ultimate breakfast sandwich.
If you love homemade bread but don’t want the hassle of complex baking techniques, these cottage cheese bagels are a game-changer. They’re packed with nutrients, easy to make, and endlessly customizable. Keep reading to discover why this recipe works so well and how you can make it perfectly every time!
Table of contents
Why The Cottage Cheese Bagel Recipe Works
1. Packed with Protein and Nutrients
Cottage cheese isn’t just an afterthought in this recipe—it’s the secret ingredient that makes these bagels soft, moist, and high in protein. Unlike traditional bagels, which can be heavy on carbs and low in protein, these bagels offer a more balanced macronutrient profile, making them ideal for a healthy lifestyle.
2. No Yeast, No Fuss
Classic bagel recipes often require yeast, kneading, and long resting periods. Not this one! These cottage cheese bagels use baking powder as a leavening agent, which means you can mix, shape, and bake them in no time. If you’ve ever been put off by the thought of making bagels from scratch, this recipe will completely change your mind.
3. Perfect Texture and Flavor
Cottage cheese adds both moisture and a subtle tanginess, ensuring these bagels are never dry or bland. When combined with a touch of Greek yogurt or an egg for binding, you get a chewy, slightly dense texture—exactly what you want in a good bagel.
4. Easily Customizable Cottage Cheese Bagel Recipe
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to tweak to your preferences:
- Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free flour to keep them celiac-friendly.
- Dairy-Free Alternative – Swap cottage cheese with dairy-free ricotta or a thick plant-based yogurt.
- Low-Carb Option – Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a keto-friendly version.
- Flavor Variations – Add cinnamon and raisins for a sweet bagel or garlic and herbs for a savory twist.
By the time you finish baking these cottage cheese bagels, your kitchen will be filled with the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread. But before we dive into the recipe, let’s go over some expert tips to ensure your bagels turn out perfectly every single time!
Recipe card
Cottage Cheese Bagel Recipe
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings10
minutes20
minutes180
kcalThese cottage cheese bagels are soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and packed with protein. Made with just a handful of ingredients, they’re a quick and healthy alternative to traditional bagels—perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a snack!
Ingredients
1 cup cottage cheese (small curd, drained if watery)
1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional: Sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or shredded cheese for topping
Directions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Step 2: Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- Step 3: Shape the Bagels: Lightly flour your hands and divide the dough into 6 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a ball, then poke a hole in the center using your finger. Stretch slightly to form a bagel shape.
- Step 4: Add Egg Wash & Toppings: In a small bowl, whisk the egg and brush it over the bagels for a golden, shiny crust.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or shredded cheese for extra flavor.
- Step 5: Bake to Perfection: Place bagels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let them cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- For gluten-free bagels, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- For dairy-free bagels, substitute cottage cheese with dairy-free yogurt.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or freeze for up to 3 months.
Pro Tips for Success
Making cottage cheese bagels is simple, but a few key tips will help you achieve bakery-quality results every time. Follow these expert insights to avoid common pitfalls and elevate your bagel-making game.
1. Choose the Right Cottage Cheese
Not all cottage cheese is created equal! The texture of your bagels will depend on the type you use:
- Small curd cottage cheese blends more smoothly into the dough, giving a uniform consistency.
- Large curd cottage cheese adds slight texture, but you may need to blend it first for a smoother dough.
- Low-fat cottage cheese works well, but full-fat cottage cheese delivers the best richness and softness.
Tip: If your cottage cheese is too watery, drain it slightly before using to prevent a sticky dough.
2. Don’t Overwork the Dough
Unlike traditional yeast-based doughs, this recipe doesn’t require intense kneading. Overmixing can make the dough tough and dense instead of soft and chewy. Gently combine the ingredients until they come together—just enough to form a dough ball.
3. Use a Light Hand When Shaping
For that perfect bagel shape:
- Divide the dough evenly to ensure uniform bagels.
- Roll each portion into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your finger.
- Stretch the hole slightly—bagels will expand in the oven, so don’t make the hole too small.
Tip: Lightly flour your hands to prevent sticking when shaping the dough.
4. Bake at the Right Temperature
A high-temperature bake is crucial for a good crust. A preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) ensures your bagels rise properly and develop a golden exterior while remaining soft inside.
Tip: Use a baking stone or an inverted baking sheet for an even bake and a crispier bottom.
Variants of the Cottage Cheese Bagel Recipe
One of the best things about cottage cheese bagels is their versatility. With a few tweaks, you can create different flavors to suit your cravings. Here are some delicious variations to try:
1. Whole Wheat Cottage Cheese Bagels
For a more wholesome, fiber-rich option, replace half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Whole wheat adds a slightly nutty flavor and makes the bagels more filling. Since whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture, you might need to add an extra tablespoon of cottage cheese or a splash of milk to maintain the right dough consistency.
2. Cinnamon Raisin Cottage Cheese Bagels
If you love a slightly sweet bagel, mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and ¼ cup of raisins into the dough. The cinnamon adds warmth, while the raisins give bursts of natural sweetness. These are perfect with a slather of cream cheese or honey!
3. Savory Herb and Garlic Cottage Cheese Bagels
For a bagel packed with flavor, add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (such as oregano, basil, or rosemary) and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder to the dough. These pair wonderfully with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or even a slice of fresh tomato and avocado.
4. Everything Bagel Cottage Cheese Bagels
If you’re a fan of the classic everything bagel, sprinkle a mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and coarse salt over the tops before baking. The egg wash will help the seasoning stick and create a crunchy, flavorful crust.
FAQs about Cottage Cheese Bagel Recipe
If your bagels turn out too dense, the dough might have been overmixed. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated, and avoid pressing the dough too much when shaping.
Yes! The egg wash helps with browning, but you can substitute it with milk or a light brush of olive oil for a vegan-friendly alternative.
Yes! Greek yogurt works as a substitute, but cottage cheese gives a slightly softer texture and extra protein. If using Greek yogurt, ensure it’s thick to maintain the dough’s consistency.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never made homemade bagels before, this cottage cheese bagel recipe is the perfect place to start. It’s quick, simple, and requires no yeast or complicated steps—just mix, shape, and bake! Whether you’re looking for a high-protein breakfast option, a snack on the go, or a healthy alternative to store-bought bagels, these will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
One of the best things about these bagels is their customizability. You can keep them classic, add sweet touches like cinnamon and raisins, or go for a savory version with herbs and cheese. They’re great for meal prep, as you can bake a batch at the start of the week and have a fresh, homemade bagel ready whenever you need it. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, making them a great option for busy mornings.
If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy making homemade Sourdough Bagel Recipe.
Now it’s time to give these cottage cheese bagels a try! I’d love to hear how they turned out—leave a comment below or share your version on social media. Tag me so I can see your creations!
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