Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe

This homemade Cottage Cheese Bagel recipe transforms just two main ingredients into deliciously chewy, golden bagels that taste like they came from your favorite bakery. Ready in just 15 minutes, these bagels offer a protein boost from the cottage cheese while maintaining that classic bagel texture you love. Perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunches when you want something special without the fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Just Two Main Ingredients: Self-rising flour and cottage cheese are all you need for the dough – no yeast, no proofing, no waiting!
• Quick and Simple: From mixing bowl to table in just 15 minutes, these bagels are perfect for those mornings when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spare.
• Customizable: Make them your own with various toppings, from classic sesame seeds to everything bagel seasoning.
• Protein-Packed: The cottage cheese adds a protein boost that you won’t find in traditional bagels, making these a more nutritious option.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Self-Rising Flour: The secret to these no-yeast bagels. It contains baking powder and salt already mixed in, giving your bagels lift without the wait.
• Whipped Cottage Cheese: Provides moisture and structure to the dough while adding protein. The whipped variety blends more smoothly into the dough.
• Egg: Used for brushing the tops before baking, giving your bagels that beautiful golden sheen and helping toppings stick.
• Toppings: Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or whatever strikes your fancy! The toppings add flavor, texture, and visual appeal.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are some delicious variations to try:

• Sweet Bagels: Add a tablespoon of honey to the dough and top with cinnamon sugar for a breakfast treat.
• Herb & Garlic: Mix dried herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough and top with minced garlic and parmesan cheese.
• Whole Wheat Option: Replace half the self-rising flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and more fiber.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix shredded cheddar or mozzarella into the dough for cheesy bagels that are perfect with savory toppings.

How to Make Cottage Cheese Bagels

Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) or set your air fryer to the same temperature. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper if using the oven.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and whipped cottage cheese. Mix with a wooden spoon until it starts coming together, then use your hands to knead until you have a smooth dough. If the mixture seems too dry, add a bit more cottage cheese or a splash of water.

Step 3: Shape Your Bagels

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Divide it into eight equal portions and roll each into a ball. Press your thumb through the center of each ball to create a hole, then gently stretch to form the classic bagel shape.

Step 4: Add Toppings

Place the shaped bagels on your parchment-lined baking sheet or prepare them for the air fryer. Brush the tops with whisked egg, then sprinkle with your chosen toppings, pressing gently to help them adhere.

Step 5: Bake or Air Fry

For oven baking, place the bagels in your preheated oven for 18-20 minutes until golden brown. If using an air fryer, cook for about 10 minutes, checking occasionally for that perfect golden color.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix just until combined for the best texture. Overworking can make your bagels tough.
• Wet Your Hands: If the dough is sticking to your fingers while shaping, slightly wet your hands to make handling easier.
• Size Matters: Try to make your bagels uniform in size so they cook evenly.
• Check Early: Every oven and air fryer is different, so start checking a few minutes before the suggested cooking time.

How to Serve

These versatile bagels work beautifully in so many ways:

Breakfast Sandwiches

Split and toast your bagel, then layer with scrambled eggs, avocado, and a slice of cheese for a protein-packed start to your day.

Classic Schmear

Nothing beats a toasted bagel spread with cream cheese. Add sliced cucumbers and tomatoes for a fresh twist.

Lunch Option

These make excellent sandwich bases! Try tuna salad, turkey and cheese, or a vegetarian option with hummus and roasted vegetables.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. They’ll maintain their texture better in the fridge than at room temperature.

Freezing

These bagels freeze beautifully! Slice them in half first, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to six months, ready whenever a bagel craving strikes.

Reheating

For the best texture, toast frozen or refrigerated bagels directly from storage—no need to thaw first. They’ll taste freshly baked with just a quick trip through the toaster.

FAQs

Can I use regular cottage cheese instead of whipped?
Yes, you can use regular cottage cheese, but you’ll want to blend it smooth first. Whipped cottage cheese creates a smoother dough without the curds, but regular cottage cheese will work if you process it briefly in a food processor.

Why didn’t my bagels rise much?
Check that your self-rising flour is fresh—the leavening agents can lose potency over time. Also, make sure you’re not overworking the dough, which can prevent proper rising. The bagels won’t rise dramatically like yeast bagels, but they should be light and fluffy inside.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute a gluten-free self-rising flour blend. You may need to adjust the cottage cheese amount slightly as gluten-free flours sometimes require more moisture. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I know when the bagels are done baking?
The bagels should be golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you’re unsure, you can insert a toothpick into the thickest part—it should come out clean or with a few crumbs, not wet dough.

Final Thoughts

These Cottage Cheese Bagels might just revolutionize your breakfast routine! With minimal ingredients, effort, and time, you can enjoy freshly baked bagels any day of the week. The protein boost from the cottage cheese makes them more satisfying than store-bought versions, and the endless topping possibilities mean breakfast never gets boring. Give them a try this weekend—I bet they’ll become a regular on your breakfast menu!

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