Cottage cheese bagels are the delicious, high-protein twist your breakfast routine didn’t know it needed. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll whip up soft, chewy bagels that rival your favorite bakery, no yeast, no fancy tools, and no waiting around. This 3-ingredient recipe comes together in minutes and bakes up golden on the outside and tender in the middle, thanks to one surprisingly creamy secret: cottage cheese.
Whether you’re after high protein bagels for your morning meal, a satisfying post-workout snack, or an easy option for meal prep, this recipe is about to become your go-to. Let’s dive into why you’ll want to make these on repeat.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Cottage Cheese Bagels
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels
Description
These cottage cheese bagels are soft, chewy, and packed with protein. With only 3 ingredients and no yeast needed, they’re perfect for a quick breakfast or healthy snack.
Ingredients
1 cup self-rising flour (Note 1)
1 cup full-fat cottage cheese (Note 2)
1 large egg, beaten for egg wash
Optional toppings: sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, shredded asiago cheese, or poppy seeds
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine flour and cottage cheese until a dough forms.
3. Divide dough into 4 portions and roll each into a rope. Shape into bagels.
4. Place on baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg and add toppings.
5. Bake 20–22 minutes, or until golden. Cool 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Note 1: To make your own self-rising flour, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour with 1½ tsp baking powder and ¼ tsp salt.
Note 2: Drain excess liquid from cottage cheese for best dough consistency.
You can also air fry these at 330°F for 12–15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love These Cottage Cheese Bagels
High-Protein, Easy & Delicious
These cottage cheese bagels aren’t just tasty, they’re shockingly easy to make and deliver 11 grams of protein per bagel. With just two main ingredients and one egg for that golden finish, you’ll get all the chewy, satisfying texture of traditional bagels, minus the time commitment.
They’re also naturally lower in fat and sugar compared to store-bought bagels. Thanks to the power of cottage cheese dough, every bite is light, moist, and just the right amount of dense. And did we mention there’s no yeast and no rise time involved? That means less waiting, more eating.
If you’re looking for healthy bagels at home, this is your recipe. It’s also a genius way to sneak in more calcium and protein without sacrificing flavor.
We even gave them a spin in the air fryer, spoiler alert: air fryer cottage cheese bagels turn out perfectly crisp on the outside and fluffy inside.
Perfect for Meal Prep or Quick Breakfast
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or just want a quick breakfast with staying power, cottage cheese bagels fit the bill. Make a batch on Sunday, and you’ll have homemade bagels with cottage cheese ready for easy grab-and-go mornings.
You can dress them up sweet or savory: top with everything bagel seasoning, almond butter and banana, or smoked salmon and avocado. They’re also freezer-friendly, making them a reliable part of your cottage cheese baking recipes rotation.
One batch gives you warm, chewy comfort you can feel good about. And with only 3 ingredients, this easy bagel recipe will be your new weekday hero.
Ingredients & Substitutions for the Best Cottage Cheese Bagels
Key Ingredients for the Best Cottage Cheese Bagels
What makes this protein bagel recipe so magical is the short and simple ingredient list. Just three core items create the perfect chewy bagel texture, no rising, no kneading, and no fuss.
- Cottage cheese: Use full-fat cottage cheese for moisture and richness. It gives these bagels structure and acts as the liquid + fat all in one.
- Self-rising flour: This shortcut flour already contains baking powder and salt, so you don’t need to measure extras.
- Egg: Just one beaten egg gives your bagels that glossy, bakery-style golden top after baking.
This combo gives you soft, chewy, flour and cottage cheese bagels without yeast or boiling.
Easy Ingredient Swaps and Substitutions
You can still make delicious cottage cheese bagels even if you need to tweak the ingredients:
- No self-rising flour? Mix 1 cup all-purpose flour with 1 ½ tsp baking powder + ¼ tsp salt.
- Want gluten-free? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and add the baking powder/salt combo above.
- Watching carbs? For low carb cottage cheese bagels, sub almond flour and add ½ tsp baking soda and 1 egg white to help the dough bind.
- No cottage cheese? You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute, but you’ll end up with Greek yogurt bagels that are slightly less dense.
And of course, toppings are totally your call! Try shredded asiago, sesame seeds, or even poppy for classic flair.
Ingredient
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Self-rising flour | 1 cup |
| Full-fat cottage cheese | 1 cup |
| Egg (beaten, for egg wash) | 1 large |
| Toppings (optional) | Sesame seeds, asiago, everything seasoning, poppy seeds |
How to Make Cottage Cheese Bagels
These cottage cheese bagels come together in about 25 minutes from start to finish. No mixer, no yeast, and no boiling water required! You’ll be amazed at how chewy and golden they turn out using just three basic ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the dough
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of self-rising flour with 1 cup of full-fat cottage cheese. Stir with a rubber spatula until a dough forms. Don’t overmix.
Step 3: Shape the bagels
Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Lightly flour your hands and roll each piece into a rope, then connect the ends to form a bagel shape.
Step 4: Brush and top
Place the bagels on the baking sheet. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for shine, then sprinkle with your favorite toppings, like everything seasoning or shredded asiago.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly puffed. Cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
That’s it, 3 ingredient cottage cheese bagels you’ll want to bake every week!
Want to explore other delicious ways to bake with cottage cheese? Try this cheesy-soft cottage cheese bread recipe or whip up these easy cottage cheese egg muffins that are perfect for meal prep.
Tips for the Best Cottage Cheese Bagels
Pro Tips for Perfect Texture & Flavor
- Drain excess liquid from your cottage cheese if it’s very watery. Too much moisture can make the dough sticky or gummy. Aim for thick, spoonable curds (4% milkfat is best).
- Use a gentle hand when mixing. Overmixing will make your bagels dense instead of soft and chewy.
- Customize the flavor! Try stirring garlic powder or shredded cheddar right into the dough for a savory twist.
- Air fryer version? Yes! Cook at 330°F for 12–15 minutes. Air fryer cottage cheese bagels come out perfectly crisp without heating your oven.
Want another cheesy protein-packed idea? Check out these irresistible cottage cheese banana muffins, they’re naturally sweet and meal-prep ready.
What to Avoid for Best Results
- Don’t skip the egg wash. It gives that shiny, golden crust we all love on classic bagels.
- Avoid overbaking. They may look pale at first, but resist the urge to keep baking past 22 minutes. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
- Don’t expect a doughy rise. These are no yeast bagels, so they won’t puff like traditional ones, but they’ll still be chewy and satisfying!
Still craving more cozy, high-protein recipes? Try these fun cottage cheese chocolate brownies for a surprisingly rich dessert with a light twist.
Topping Ideas for Cottage Cheese Bagels
One of the best things about these cottage cheese bagels? They’re like a blank canvas for whatever you’re craving, sweet, savory, or somewhere in between.
Here are some tasty topping ideas to try:
Savory Favorites
- Classic everything bagel seasoning – A little garlic, onion, and sesame takes things to the next level.
- Shredded asiago or sharp cheddar – Sprinkle before baking for a melty cheese crust.
- Sliced avocado + chili flakes – Creamy, spicy, and perfect for a post-gym bite.
- Smoked salmon + cream cheese – A high-protein brunch dream.
- Soft scrambled eggs + hot sauce – Perfect for mornings when you want a real breakfast sandwich.
Want something cozy on the side? These crispy cottage cheese chips are a crunchy, guilt-free treat.
Sweet & Simple
- Peanut butter + banana slices – Great for kids and adults alike.
- Greek yogurt + berries – A tangy topping that also amps up the protein.
- Cream cheese + a drizzle of honey – Simple, elegant, and satisfying.
- Nutella + strawberries – Treat yourself—you’ve earned it!
If you’re into baking with sweet cottage cheese combos, don’t miss these blueberry cottage cheese muffins, they’re a fruity, protein-rich delight.
How to Store and Reheat
These cottage cheese bagels are meal prep gold. Whether you’re storing for a few days or freezing for later, here’s how to keep them soft, chewy, and delicious.
Short-Term Storage
- Room Temperature: Store cooled bagels in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 2 days. Keep them on the counter, away from heat or sunlight.
- Refrigerator: Not necessary unless your kitchen is very warm, but they’ll keep an extra day if chilled. Just know they may dry out slightly.
Long-Term Freezing
Want to make a double batch? Go for it!
- Wrap bagels tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer bag.
- Label and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To thaw, just leave them on the counter for 1–2 hours or overnight in the fridge.
Best Reheating Methods
- Toaster: Slice in half and toast to revive that perfect crusty bite.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 5–8 minutes if you’re reheating a whole bagel.
- Air Fryer: Air fry at 330°F for 3–4 minutes for a quick warm-up.
These bagels make a perfect match with savory spreads or served alongside cottage cheese tuna salad for an easy lunch. Or, turn leftovers into a quick breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs and melty cheese, yum!
Craving more prep-friendly recipes? Don’t miss these cottage cheese chicken patties for a protein-packed dinner idea that freezes beautifully.
Other Cottage Cheese Recipes You May Like
If you’re loving these cottage cheese bagels, wait until you see what else you can whip up with that tub of creamy goodness. Here are some other cozy, high-protein cottage cheese recipes worth bookmarking:
Start your day strong with these pillowy cottage cheese egg muffins, they’re perfect for breakfast on the go or a light lunch with salad.
Want something savory and comforting? You’ll love this baked potato and cottage cheese combo. It’s hearty, warm, and way more satisfying than it sounds.
If you’re craving sweets, try the naturally sweet blueberry cottage cheese muffins or go richer with this cottage cheese chocolate cake that’s secretly full of protein.
And if you’ve got 10 minutes and a blender, don’t miss this viral cottage cheese chocolate mousse, light, fluffy, and totally spoon-worthy.
These recipes prove just how versatile cottage cheese really is, from bagels to brownies!
FAQ: Cottage Cheese Bagels
Is cottage cheese good for bagels?
Absolutely! Cottage cheese bagels are not only easy to make, but they’re packed with protein and have a perfectly chewy texture. The creamy curds in cottage cheese dough help bind everything together while adding a subtle tang and moisture that gives the bagels their soft bite.
Can you use cottage cheese instead of yogurt in bagels?
Yes, you can swap Greek yogurt with cottage cheese in most easy bagel recipe formats. Just make sure your cottage cheese is thick (not watery), and expect a slightly richer texture. It’s a great option if you’re aiming for high protein bagels with a creamy twist.
How do you make Bethenny Frankel’s viral cottage cheese bagel?
Her version uses 3 ingredient cottage cheese bagels: cottage cheese, self-rising flour, and egg. That’s exactly the base of this recipe! You can bake or air fry them, and finish with toppings like everything seasoning. Try them with avocado or whipped cream cheese for a celeb-style bite.
Why do bodybuilders eat cottage cheese before bed?
Cottage cheese is rich in casein protein, which digests slowly, making it ideal for overnight muscle recovery. That’s why it’s a favorite among athletes and fitness lovers. Recipes like these cottage cheese bagels offer a fun way to enjoy those benefits anytime of day, not just before bed.
Whether you’re short on time, cutting carbs, or just craving a bakery-style bagel you can feel great about, these cottage cheese bagels check every box. They’re chewy, protein-packed, and impossibly easy to make, no yeast, no boiling, no stress. With endless topping options and a short ingredient list, they’re everything a home cook could ask for.
Give them a try, and you might just ditch store-bought bagels for good. While you’re here, explore more delicious, protein-rich ideas on our site, because cottage cheese deserves a permanent spot in your fridge.
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