Name: Cottage Cheese Bagels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (240g) cottage cheese (small curd, drained if watery); 1 large egg; 2 cups (250g) self-rising flour; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 1 egg (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon water; Toppings of choice (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning, etc.)

If you're obsessed with soft, chewy bagels but crave a healthy, protein-boosted twist, these Cottage Cheese Bagels are the absolute best! They come out golden and tender, with a satisfyingly chewy bite and a subtle, savory tang from rich cottage cheese.

You won't believe how quick these are to whip up-no yeast, no boiling, and no complicated steps. Whether you're after a nutritious on-the-go breakfast, an energy-boosting snack, or a tasty sandwich base, this recipe will become your new kitchen staple.

Bonus: they're perfect for meal prep and totally customizable with your favorite toppings! I first made these for a weekend brunch, and they've been on repeat ever since.

Cottage Cheese Bagels fresh out of the oven, sprinkled with sesame seeds

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick & easy-no yeast, no boiling required!
Naturally high in protein for a filling breakfast or snack
Soft, chewy texture that's just like classic bagels
Customizable with your favorite toppings and mix-ins

Key Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Bagels

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is the secret to plump, moist bagels that pack a serious protein punch. It brings a slight tang and creamy texture, making these bagels taste rich without needing extra fat. Use full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese-just be sure to choose the small curd variety and drain off excess liquid for best results. Greek yogurt can work in a pinch, but the texture will be a little denser.

Self-Rising Flour

Self-rising flour simplifies this recipe, ensuring your bagels rise tall and fluffy with minimal effort. If you don't have self-rising flour on hand, you can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and a bit of salt (check the recipe notes for measurements). Using all-purpose flour alone won't give you the same rise or tenderness.

Eggs

An egg is mixed into the dough for extra structure and a golden crumb, while another is brushed on top for that beautiful, shiny finish. If you're egg-free, a dairy-free yogurt may be substituted in the dough and a little milk or cream can be brushed on top instead, but the glaze won't shine quite as much.

Toppings

Toppings are what make bagels fun! Classic options like sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or poppy seeds add crunch and flavor. Want sweet bagels? Try cinnamon sugar or dried fruit. Don't skip this step-it's where your personality shines!

Salt

A touch of salt in the dough balances the flavors and brings out the subtle savory notes of the cottage cheese. Feel free to adjust to taste, but don't leave it out, or your bagels will taste flat.

Instructions for Cottage Cheese Bagels

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep and Preheat

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your bagels won't stick and gives them a golden, even bake.

Mix the Dough

In a blender or food processor, blitz the cottage cheese until smooth. In a large bowl, combine the pureed cottage cheese, one egg, self-rising flour, and salt. Stir with a spatula until a shaggy dough forms. If it's too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until manageable.

Shape the Bagels

Dust your hands with flour and divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each into a log about 8 inches long, then form a ring and pinch the ends to seal. Place shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.

Add the Topping

Whisk the second egg with a tablespoon of water for your egg wash. Brush generously over each bagel, then sprinkle on your desired toppings. Be creative-this is the fun part!

Bake Until Golden

Bake bagels for 22-25 minutes, or until puffed and deep golden brown. Cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Bagels are best enjoyed slightly warm, fresh from the oven.

Recipe Variations

Gluten-Free Bagels

Swap the self-rising flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend and add 2 teaspoons baking powder and ½ teaspoon salt. You'll get bagels everyone can enjoy!

Dairy-Free Option

Try using thick, unsweetened dairy-free yogurt in place of cottage cheese. The texture will be a bit different but still delicious and moist.

Sweet Cinnamon Raisin

Fold ⅓ cup raisins and 1 teaspoon cinnamon into the dough, and top with cinnamon sugar before baking. It's perfect for a quick breakfast treat.

Whole Wheat Twist

Use half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose (with baking powder and salt if making your own self-rising). Bagels will be heartier and extra satisfying.

Mini Bagels

Divide dough into 12 pieces instead of 6 for adorable, snack-size bagels-great for kids' lunches or party trays!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Cottage Cheese Bagels toasted with a generous smear of cream cheese, savory smoked salmon, or your favorite veggie spread. They're delicious alongside scrambled eggs for breakfast, piled with turkey and crisp lettuce for lunch, or as a grab-and-go snack. For extra flair, garnish with fresh herbs like chives or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, toast sliced bagels until warm and crisp. For longer storage, freeze bagels individually (wrapped tightly), and thaw overnight or toast straight from frozen for a speedy breakfast.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cottage Cheese Bagels (FAQ)

Q: Can I make Cottage Cheese Bagels ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! These bagels keep well for several days and freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or busy mornings.

Q: What if I don’t have self-rising flour?

A: No problem! You can make your own by mixing 2 cups all-purpose flour with 3 teaspoons baking powder and ½ teaspoon salt.

Q: Are these bagels chewy like traditional bagels?

A: Yes! Thanks to the cottage cheese, these bagels are soft inside with a satisfyingly chewy bite, very close to classic bagels but easier and quicker to make.

Ready for warm, protein-packed bagels in under an hour? I know these Cottage Cheese Bagels will become your new favorite! Don't forget to leave a comment or rating below-I love hearing how your bakes turn out!

★★★★★ 4.80 from 187 ratings