Easy Cottage Cheese Bagels

Name: Easy Cottage Cheese Bagels
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; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 egg, beaten

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I have always loved the texture and flavor of bagels, but I wanted to create a version that incorporates the healthy goodness of cottage cheese. These Easy Cottage Cheese Bagels are not only simple to make, but they also come with an unexpected protein boost. They are perfect for breakfast or a quick snack, and I've found them to be incredibly versatile. You can top them with anything from cream cheese to fresh vegetables, making them a delightful addition to any meal.

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:58:11.013Z

When I first tried incorporating cottage cheese into my bagel recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by how moist and delicious they turned out. The creamy texture from the cottage cheese made the bagels incredibly soft while still maintaining that classic bagel chew. I like to bake them until they're golden brown, which adds a lovely crunch to the exterior.

After experimenting with various toppings, I discovered that everything bagel seasoning pairs exceptionally well with these. It's the perfect way to elevate the flavor profile, and the best part is that you can customize them with your favorite spices or toppings. They disappear quickly in my house!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        High in protein thanks to cottage cheese
Quick and easy to make from scratch
Perfectly customizable with various toppings

      

Perfecting the Dough

Achieving the right dough consistency is key to making these bagels delightful. When mixing the ingredients, you want the dough to be slightly sticky but manageable. If it's too dry, add a tablespoon of water; too wet? Incorporate a bit more flour gradually until it holds together without sticking excessively to your hands. Remember, overmixing can lead to tough bagels, so mix just until combined.

As you shape your bagels, ensure to create an even hole in the center. A hole that's about one inch in diameter works well, as the bagels puff up while baking. If your holes close up during baking, you may have rolled the dough too tightly. It's sometimes helpful to use your thumb to create the hole after shaping the bagel to ensure it stays in place.

Customizing Your Bagels

These Easy Cottage Cheese Bagels serve as a perfect canvas for various toppings. The subtle flavor of the bagel pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory options. Consider spreading cream cheese and topping with sliced cucumbers or smoked salmon for a classic experience. For a sweeter option, try cream cheese mixed with a bit of honey and fresh fruit such as strawberries or blueberries.

Feel free to experiment with flavor additions right in the dough. Mixing in a teaspoon of garlic powder or chopped fresh herbs can elevate the taste profile before baking. Alternatively, sprinkle some everything bagel seasoning on top right before they go into the oven for a savory crunch.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Bagel Ingredients

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

Once you have everything ready, you can start making the bagels!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and beaten egg until a dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces, then shape each piece into a bagel by forming a circle with a hole in the middle.

Bake

Place the bagels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Let the bagels cool slightly before enjoying!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top before baking. You can also add herbs or spices to the dough for a flavor twist.

Storage Solutions

If you have leftover bagels, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply toast from frozen or let them thaw in the fridge overnight for a day when you crave a fresh bagel.

To refresh leftovers, place them in a toaster oven for a few minutes or wrap in aluminum foil and heat in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help restore some of that delicious crust while keeping the inside moist and tender.

Scaling Your Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up when hosting a brunch or family gathering. For each additional batch, simply double or triple the ingredients as needed. Just ensure your baking sheet can accommodate the extra bagels without overcrowding, as this can affect their ability to bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.

When scaling, timing remains the same for each batch. The only adjustment might be in baking time if baking multiple sheets at once; you may need to rotate them halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them and look for those golden brown edges to indicate doneness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may change the texture slightly.

→ How should I store the bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

→ What toppings would you recommend?

Cream cheese, smoked salmon, sliced tomatoes, or anything you enjoy on bagels works great!