Protein Bagels Made With Cottage Cheese

Name: Protein Bagels Made With Cottage Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); Sesame seeds for topping (optional)

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I absolutely love making these protein bagels with cottage cheese. They offer a great balance of flavor and texture, plus they're packed with protein to fuel my day. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity; all you need are a few staple ingredients that you may already have at home. As someone who enjoys a nutritious breakfast, these bagels have become a go-to in my kitchen. The balance of flavors is fantastic, making it hard to eat just one!

Created by

Seraphina Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:33:35.178Z

When I first experimented with cottage cheese in bagels, I was pleasantly surprised by the light and airy texture it created. Not only did it yield a wonderful flavor, but it also boosted the protein content significantly. I love serving them fresh from the oven, slathered with a bit of cream cheese and smoked salmon—it’s a deliciously satisfying breakfast!

One trick I've discovered is to let the dough rest for a few minutes before shaping it into bagels. This allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to form them without tearing. Now, I always keep a batch of these bagels in my freezer for a quick, nutritious breakfast any day of the week!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        High in protein thanks to cottage cheese
Easy to make with minimal ingredients
Versatile base for both sweet and savory toppings

      

Texture and Flavor Profile

These protein bagels made with cottage cheese boast a unique texture that's both chewy and fluffy. The inclusion of cottage cheese adds moisture and protein, resulting in a bagel that has a delightful bite. As they bake, you can expect them to develop a golden-brown crust while remaining soft on the inside. This contrast makes each bite satisfying, whether you enjoy them plain or topped with your favorite spreads.

The flavor profile is subtly sweet due to the optional honey, which enhances the overall taste without overpowering it. If you prefer a savory twist, consider omitting the honey and adding garlic powder or onion flakes into the dough. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize the flavors, ensuring that each batch can reflect your personal preferences.

Ingredient Highlights and Substitutions

Cottage cheese is the star ingredient here, providing not just protein but also creaminess that binds the bagel ingredients together. If you find yourself without cottage cheese, Greek yogurt can serve as a great substitute, lending a similar texture and protein content. Just be mindful to choose a plain, unsweetened option to keep the flavor profile intact.

The choice of flour can also influence the bagel’s outcome. While all-purpose flour works perfectly, using whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and more fiber. If you’re gluten-sensitive, a gluten-free flour blend may also work, though you might need to adjust the liquid slightly to achieve the right dough consistency.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These bagels store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled bagels in a zip-top bag and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy one, pop it directly into a toaster or a warm oven for a few minutes to revive their fresh-baked texture.

For serving, these bagels are a delightful canvas for endless topping possibilities. Cream cheese, avocado, smoked salmon, or even almond butter can enhance your breakfast or snack experience. I love experimenting with different toppings depending on my mood, blending sweet and savory for a satisfying treat any time of the day.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have everything ready to dive into the fun!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your bagels:

Mix Ingredients

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

Knead the Dough

Lightly flour your work surface and knead the dough for about 2-3 minutes until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and create a hole in the middle to form a bagel shape.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Bake for 25 minutes until golden.

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving with your favorite toppings.

Enjoy your homemade protein-packed bagels!

Pro Tips

For best results, use full-fat cottage cheese, as it adds creaminess to the dough. Feel free to experiment with different toppings like everything bagel seasoning or even sweet options like cinnamon and raisins.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels don't rise as expected, the culprit might be the baking powder. Ensure it's fresh for optimal leavening; old powder can result in dense bagels. Additionally, knead the dough just until it’s smooth; over-kneading could lead to tougher bagels, while under-kneading might leave them crumbly.

Another common issue arises when shaping the bagels. If the dough is too sticky, lightly dust your hands and work surface with flour. However, avoid adding too much flour, as this can alter the bagel's texture. A perfect bagel should hold its shape without being too dry or tough.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scaling; simply double or triple the ingredient quantities to make more bagels without any complicated adjustments. Just ensure that you have a larger mixing bowl, as the dough can get quite thick. When scaling, it's also beneficial to bake in batches so that each set has enough space to rise and bake evenly.

Keep in mind that baking times may slightly vary with larger batches. Check for doneness around the recommended time, but depending on your oven and the size of your bagels, you might need to add an additional 2-5 minutes for a perfect golden-brown finish.

Creative Variations

One easy variation is to incorporate spices or herbs directly into the dough. Dried oregano or Italian seasoning can add a burst of flavor that's great for a savory breakfast option. For a different twist, try mixing in shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, before baking, creating a cheesy, savory bagel that pairs perfectly with a bowl of soup.

If you're in the mood for something sweet, consider adding chocolate chips or dried fruit like cranberries or apricots. A handful mixed into the dough can transform your protein bagels into an indulgent yet nutritious treat. These variations not only keep the recipe exciting but also allow for creativity in your kitchen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use nonfat cottage cheese?

Yes, but the texture might be slightly different—nonfat cottage cheese may result in a less creamy bagel.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in dried herbs, garlic powder, or other seasonings to customize your bagels.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

I recommend cream cheese, smoked salmon, avocado, or even peanut butter for a sweet twist.