Protein Bagels Made With Cottage Cheese

Name: Protein Bagels Made With Cottage Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup almond flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 egg; Sesame seeds (for topping, optional)

Highlighted under: Light Healthy Meals Recipes

I absolutely love making these protein bagels with cottage cheese because they offer a delicious twist on a classic favorite. With a combination of high-protein ingredients and a soft, chewy texture, they are perfect for breakfast or a snack. What I find particularly appealing is the simplicity of the recipe; it’s quick and easy to whip up. Plus, the cottage cheese adds a creamy flavor that's unexpected and delightful. Let me take you through this amazing recipe that has become a staple in my kitchen!

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:23:35.316Z

In my journey of creating healthier snacks, I stumbled upon the idea of using cottage cheese in bagels, and it changed everything. The protein-packed ingredient not only enhances the nutritional profile but also lends a delightful creaminess that I couldn't resist. I love trying out various toppings and spreads on these bagels, from avocado to smoked salmon.

One particular tip I’ve discovered is to let the dough rest for a few minutes before shaping it. This allows the gluten to relax and makes it easier to shape the bagels without them becoming too dense. Trust me, this little step makes all the difference in achieving that perfect chewy texture that everyone loves.

Why You'll Love These Bagels
High in protein to keep you satisfied
Moist interior with a golden crispy crust
Versatile for sweet or savory toppings

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese not only contributes to the protein content of these bagels but also lends a unique moisture that sets them apart from traditional bagels. The creamy texture helps to create a soft interior, resulting in a delightful chewiness that complements the crispy crust. When measuring the cottage cheese, make sure to drain excess liquid to prevent the dough from becoming overly wet, which can lead to bagels that lose their shape while baking.

In addition to the moisture, the tangy flavor of cottage cheese adds a subtle richness to the bagels that pairs wonderfully with both sweet and savory toppings. If you're feeling adventurous, try using flavored cottage cheese varieties for a fun twist—herbed or garlic options can infuse a savory depth while fruit-flavored ones are great for sweet toppings.

Shaping and Baking Tips

Shaping the bagels correctly is crucial for achieving that classic bagel appearance and texture. When rolling the dough into balls, ensure they are tight to prevent them from spreading out too much during baking. Use a light touch when poking a hole in the center, as overly stretching the dough can cause the hole to close up while baking. To maintain their shape, you might also choose to refrigerate the shaped bagels for about 10 minutes before baking, which helps them hold their form.

When it's time to bake, preheating your oven to the correct temperature is vital for achieving a desirable golden color. If you want an extra crispy texture, consider placing a small oven-safe dish with water at the bottom of the oven during baking; the steam will help create a crust that’s both crispy and chewy. Keep an eye on the bagels during the last few minutes of baking; they should have a deep golden brown color and a firm crust.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup almond flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg
Sesame seeds (for topping, optional)

Make sure to have these ready to create your bagels!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, salt, and egg. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 1 minute until smooth. Let it rest for 5 minutes.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your finger to form a bagel shape. If desired, dip in sesame seeds.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Enjoy with your favorite toppings!

Your protein bagels are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like dill or garlic powder to the dough before baking. You can also experiment with different types of flour for varied textures.

Storage and Reheating

Once your protein bagels have cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag, where they will last for about three months. To reheat, simply place them in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through—this will help to regain that fresh, chewy texture.

For a quick morning option, you can toast them right from frozen. Just add a couple more minutes to the toasting time, and enjoy them with your choice of cream cheese, nut butter, or even jams to enhance their flavor.

Flavor Variations

Experimenting with flavors can turn your protein bagels into an exciting treat! You can mix in ingredients like chopped herbs (e.g., chives, dill) or spices (e.g., garlic powder, onion powder) into the dough to create your personalized twist. Adding shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, gives the bagels a cheesy goodness that pairs well with savory toppings like avocado or smoked salmon.

For a sweeter bagel, incorporate a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup into the dough and consider adding dried fruits or chocolate chips for extra flavor. Topping them with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking can also give your bagels a delightful sweetness that’s perfect for a breakfast treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend, but the texture may vary.

→ How long can I store the bagels?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze the bagels?

Absolutely! These bagels freeze well. Just make sure they are completely cooled before freezing.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Cream cheese, avocado, or smoked salmon work wonderfully with these bagels!