Protein Bagels Made With Cottage Cheese

Name: Protein Bagels Made With Cottage Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt

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I love starting my day with something nutritious and satisfying, and these protein bagels made with cottage cheese have become a favorite in our household. The combination of cottage cheese ensures a soft, chewy texture while packing a protein punch. Whether toasted and topped with avocado or enjoyed plain, they’ve quickly become a staple for both breakfast and snacks. Trust me, they’re not just healthy, but also incredibly easy to make from scratch in under 30 minutes!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:53:34.704Z

When I first tried making bagels with cottage cheese, I was surprised at how simple and effective it was. The moisture from the cheese replaces a lot of the fat typically found in bagel recipes without sacrificing flavor. I experimented with different toppings and found that everything from savory herbs to sweet cinnamon worked beautifully.

One crucial tip I discovered is to let the dough rest for a bit before shaping. This simple step makes it easier to work with and results in an even better bagel. I promise once you make these, you'll never want to go back to store-bought!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
High-protein content keeps you full and satisfied.
Soft and chewy texture that rivals traditional bagels.
Quick and easy to make at home from scratch.

A Deep Dive into Ingredients

Cottage cheese is the star ingredient in these bagels, contributing both moisture and a lovely, chewy texture. It’s also packed with protein, which is why these bagels will keep you feeling full for longer. When selecting cottage cheese, choose a brand with a smooth consistency; grainy or overly watery cottage cheese can lead to an undesirable texture in the final product.

The all-purpose flour acts as the backbone of the dough, giving structure to the bagels. If you're looking for a slightly healthier alternative, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. Just keep in mind this may slightly alter the texture and flavor.

Perfecting Your Bagel Techniques

Shaping the bagels correctly is crucial for achieving that classic bagel form. When you roll the dough into balls, make sure to create a hole that's about 1-2 inches wide in the center. This allows for even cooking and helps the bagels rise properly. If the hole closes as you handle the dough, simply reshape it before baking to maintain that characteristic bagel look.

When baking, watch for visual cues. You’ll want to take them out of the oven when they’re golden brown, which usually takes around 20 minutes. If they’re light in color, they might still be doughy inside. Let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet to firm up before trying to transfer them; this prevents any collapsing.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 egg
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, flour, egg, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Make a hole in the center of each ball to form a bagel shape.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding herbs or spices directly into the dough before baking. These bagels can also be frozen for later use—just reheat in the toaster when you're ready to enjoy.

Storing and Freezing Your Bagels

These protein bagels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2-3 days, making them a great candidate for meal prep. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure they are cooled completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

To reheat, simply pop a frozen bagel in the toaster or preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm them for about 10-15 minutes. You can even sprinkle a little water on the bagel's surface before toasting to create a steam effect, resulting in a fresher bagel experience.

Creative Serving Suggestions

These protein bagels are wonderfully versatile and can be topped with a variety of ingredients. For a savory breakfast, try spreading cream cheese or hummus, then layering with smoked salmon, cucumber slices, and fresh dill. This not only enhances the flavor but also elevates the protein content even further.

For a sweet twist, consider slathering a bagel with almond butter or peanut butter, then topping it with banana slices and a drizzle of honey. This combination adds delicious complexity and turns your bagel into a delightful energy-boosting snack.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may make the bagels denser.

→ How should I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I top my bagels with?

There are endless topping options including cream cheese, smoked salmon, nut butter, or simply a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar.