Can I use gluten-free flour to make these bagels?

Yes, you can substitute self-rising flour with gluten-free self-rising flour to make these cottage cheese bagels gluten-free.

Do I need to blend the cottage cheese?

Blending the cottage cheese is optional, but it helps create a smoother dough and better texture in the finished bagels.

Can I make these bagels in an air fryer?

Yes, these bagels can be cooked in an air fryer at 350°F for about 10–12 minutes until golden brown.

How do I store the bagels?

Store the bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 1 month.

Can I add toppings to the bagels?

Absolutely! Popular topping options include everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, shredded cheese, or herbs.

Are these bagels suitable for a high-protein diet?

Yes, each bagel contains around 11 grams of protein, making them a great choice for high-protein diets and meal prep.

Breakfast

Cottage Cheese Bagels – Simple, Tasty Homemade Bake

Name: Cottage Cheese Bagels
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese (blended for smoother texture); 1 cup self-rising flour (or gluten-free self-rising flour); 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Optional toppings: everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, herbs, or cheese

by Patricia Jannet

20 de May de 2025

Cottage Cheese Bagels – Simple, Tasty Homemade Bake

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If you’re searching for the ultimate Cottage Cheese Bagels recipe, you’ve just found the one that’s taking the internet—and healthy kitchens—by storm. These easy, 3-ingredient cottage cheese bagels are soft on the inside, golden on the outside, and packed with 11 grams of protein per bagel, making them one of the best high-protein bagel recipes available online today.

What makes these homemade cottage cheese bagels truly stand out is their simplicity and nutrition. You don’t need yeast, you don’t need rising time, and you don’t need complicated equipment. With just cottage cheese, self-rising flour, and an egg wash, you can make fluffy, satisfying bagels in under 30 minutes—using your oven or air fryer.

Perfect for meal prep, weight management, or anyone looking to cut carbs without giving up bread, these protein-packed cottage cheese bagels are ideal for breakfast, snacks, or even sandwich bases. They’re also a great alternative for those following low-carb, high-protein, or gluten-free diets (with simple swaps).

Why You’ll Love These Cottage Cheese Bagels

Only 3 ingredients
Ready in 30 minutes
High protein (11g per bagel!)
No yeast or rising time required
Perfect for meal prep
Air fryer or oven-friendly
Freezer-friendly & family-approved

Whether you’re on a high-protein diet, meal prepping, or just want a healthy homemade breakfast option, this recipe delivers.

Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Bagels

These bagels are ridiculously easy. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

1 cup full-fat cottage cheese – Blended until smooth for better texture
1 cup self-rising flour – Or use AP flour with baking powder + salt
1 large egg (for egg wash) – For that glossy, golden finish

Optional Toppings

Sesame seeds
Everything bagel seasoning
Shredded asiago cheese
Poppy seeds

Ingredient Swaps (For All Diets)

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend + 2 tsp baking powder + ½ tsp salt
Dairy-Free: Swap with Greek-style non-dairy yogurt (texture may vary)
Whole Wheat: Substitute half the flour for whole wheat for more fiber

How to Make Cottage Cheese Bagels – Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven or Air Fryer

Oven: Preheat to 375°F, rack in the top third
Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F for 5 minutes

Step 2: Blend the Cottage Cheese

Blend 1 cup of full-fat cottage cheese in a food processor or blender until smooth. This step ensures a uniform dough and soft texture.

Step 3: Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese with 1 cup of self-rising flour. Stir until it forms a sticky dough.

Pro Tip: If the dough is sticky, add 1 tablespoon of flour at a time and knead gently.

Step 4: Knead and Divide

Transfer dough to a floured surface. Knead 8–10 times until smooth, then divide into 4 equal parts (approx. 80g each).

Step 5: Shape the Bagels

Roll each piece into a 6–7 inch rope, about 1 inch thick. Join the ends and pinch the seams to form bagels.

Step 6: Egg Wash + Season

Brush each bagel with beaten egg white. Sprinkle with your choice of topping (everything bagel seasoning is a fan favorite!).

Step 7: Bake or Air Fry

Oven: Bake for 25–30 minutes on the top rack until golden brown.
Air Fryer: Cook at 350°F for 12–14 minutes, or until puffed and golden.

Cool for 15 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Cottage Cheese Bagels

Can I make cottage cheese bagels ahead of time?
Yes! Make a double batch and freeze them individually for up to 4 months. Toast from frozen for best results.

What is the secret to fluffy cottage cheese bagels?
Blending the cottage cheese and not over-kneading the dough. Also, position the oven rack in the top third for perfect browning.

How do I avoid sticky dough?
The water content in cottage cheese varies by brand. Add flour 1 tablespoon at a time and knead until just smooth.

Want gluten-free bagels?
Use a blend like King Arthur’s GF mix with baking powder and salt. Tested and approved!

Best Ways to Serve Cottage Cheese Bagels

These bagels are incredibly versatile. Here are ways to enjoy them:

Classic: Toasted with cream cheese and smoked salmon
Savory: Topped with turkey, spinach, and Dijon
Sweet: Slathered with almond butter and banana slices
Brunch: Paired with a spinach and egg scramble
Lunch: Make a high-protein sandwich with tuna salad or chicken salad

Nutritional Information for Cottage Cheese Bagels

Each bagel (without toppings):

Calories: 180 kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 11g
Fat: 4g
Sodium: 182mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Calcium: 54mg
Iron: 1mg

Perfect for low-fat, high-protein meal plans.

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Avoid refrigeration—it makes them stale faster.
Freezer: Freeze sliced bagels for up to 4 months. Toast from frozen!

FAQs about Cottage Cheese Bagels

Can I freeze cottage cheese bagels?

Yes. Cool completely, slice, and freeze for up to 4 months. Toast directly from frozen for best results.

What can I use instead of self-rising flour?

Use 1 cup all-purpose flour + 2 tsp baking powder + ½ tsp salt.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?

Yes. Greek yogurt also works well, though cottage cheese has more protein per serving.

Are cottage cheese bagels healthy?

Definitely. They’re high in protein, lower in fat, and don’t require refined sugar or butter.

Why are my bagels dry?

You may have used a flour like almond or coconut, which absorbs too much moisture. Stick to all-purpose, whole wheat, or a trusted GF blend.

Related Recipes – You Might Also Like

If you love these cottage cheese bagels, don’t miss out on our other quick, healthy breakfast recipes!

Conclusion

Now you know exactly how to make the best cottage cheese bagels at home with just 3 ingredients. They’re high in protein, easy to prep, and endlessly customizable.

What toppings will you try first?
Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe on Pinterest, Instagram, or Facebook if you loved it!
If you made this recipe, please leave a star rating and review!