High Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels

Name: High Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey or sugar; 1 egg (for egg wash); Optional toppings (sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love starting my day with these High Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels. Not only are they rich in flavor, but they are also incredibly filling. With the creaminess of cottage cheese baked into the bagel, I find that they keep me energized and satisfied until lunchtime. Plus, they’re simple to make and perfect for customizing with different toppings. Whether I’m rushing out the door or enjoying a weekend brunch, these bagels are my go-to recipe for a nutritious start.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:16:13.831Z

When I first tried making bagels with cottage cheese, I was surprised at how delicious they turned out! The creaminess of the cottage cheese gives these bagels a unique texture and adds extra protein, making them a perfect breakfast option. I remember experimenting with different ratios of flour to cottage cheese, and the one I settled on created the ideal balance of chewiness and lightness. I’ll never go back to regular bagels!

What I love most is how versatile these bagels can be. I often top them with smoked salmon and cream cheese, or I simply spread some avocado for a quick meal. Each variation brings something new to the table and makes breakfast a delight rather than a chore. Plus, they freeze well, so I can always have a few on hand.

        Why You Will Love These Bagels
        High in protein for a satisfying meal
Unique creamy texture from cottage cheese
Versatile for various toppings and spreads

      

Achieving the Perfect Texture

The key to achieving the ideal bagel texture lies in the balance of wet and dry ingredients. The cottage cheese not only adds protein, but its moisture is crucial for creating a tender texture. If you prefer a chewier bagel, consider using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. This type of flour has a higher protein content, which can enhance elasticity and create that classic bagel chewiness. Make sure to mix just until combined to avoid over-developing the gluten.

When shaping your bagels, make sure to create an even thickness when rolling the dough into balls. The holes you make in the center should be substantial, as they will close up slightly during baking. If the holes are too small, it can result in dense bagels that lack that signature bite. Remember to handle the dough gently to maintain air pockets that contribute to a light, airy result.

Customizing Your Bagels

These High Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels are incredibly versatile and lend themselves well to various flavor profiles. For a savory touch, you can mix in chopped herbs like chives or dill into the dough. Alternatively, if you prefer something sweeter, consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins along with a sprinkle of cinnamon to the mixture before baking. This allows you to tailor each batch to fit your taste or the occasion.

Toppings are another wonderful way to customize your bagels. Sesame seeds and everything bagel seasoning are popular choices, but you could also experiment with toppings such as poppy seeds or crushed nuts. If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider brushing the bagels with garlic-infused olive oil before adding your toppings for that extra kick. Keep an eye on the toppings while baking, as they can toast quickly and become bitter.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients for Bagels

1 cup cottage cheese
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey or sugar
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional toppings (sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning)

Make sure to have these ready before you begin!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your bagels:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

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

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then poke a hole in the center to shape it into a bagel.

Prepare for Baking

Place the bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle with any desired toppings.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before enjoying with your favorite toppings!

Enjoy your homemade bagels!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in herbs or spices into the dough before shaping the bagels.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your bagels fresh, allow them to cool completely after baking, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for one to two days. If you want to keep them longer, these bagels freeze beautifully. Simply wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy one, pop it directly in the toaster from the freezer for a quick and easy breakfast.

If you feel your bagels have lost some of their texture after freezing, there’s a quick fix. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes to restore their crust. This will make them crispy on the outside while keeping the inside soft and delightful, just like when they were freshly baked.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels are coming out too dense, it could be due to overmixing the dough or using too much flour. Remember to use a light hand when combining ingredients. If you accidentally add too much flour, try adding a bit of water or cottage cheese to bring the dough back to the right consistency. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can lead to flat bagels that lack lift.

On the other hand, if your bagels spread out too much instead of holding their shape, make sure you’re shaping them tightly and creating a decent-sized hole in the center. If the dough is too sticky, use a light dusting of flour on your working surface. Adjusting the amount of flour used isn't a one-size-fits-all; consider the humidity of your environment as well, as it can affect dough consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Yes! Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they can last up to three months in the freezer.

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Absolutely! Whole wheat flour works well, but it may give a denser texture to the bagels.

→ What can I top these bagels with?

These bagels are great with cream cheese, avocado, smoked salmon, or even peanut butter!

→ How long do they last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, they can last up to a week in the refrigerator.