If you’re looking for a high-protein, low-fat, and easy-to-make bagel that tastes amazing, then you need to try these Cottage Cheese Protein Bagels! Made with just three simple ingredients—self-rising flour, full-fat cottage cheese, and an egg—these bagels are not only incredibly delicious but also packed with 11g of protein per serving.
Whether you enjoy them plain, topped with everything bagel seasoning, or paired with your favorite spread, these bagels are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a healthy snack. Plus, they can be baked in the oven or air-fried for a quicker, crispier texture.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making these protein-rich cottage cheese bagels, including step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and variations to suit your dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 3 main ingredients – No long list of ingredients needed!
- High in protein – A great way to boost your protein intake without protein powders.
- Super easy to make – No yeast, no proofing, and no long waiting times.
- Customizable – Add your favorite seasonings or cheese to enhance the flavor.
- Gluten-free option available – Easily adaptable for dietary preferences.
- Oven or air fryer-friendly – Choose your preferred cooking method.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup self-rising flour (See Note 1 for a gluten-free option)
- 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese (See Note 2 for substitutions)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Toppings (optional): Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, shredded Asiago cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Oven or Air Fryer
- For baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the rack to the top.
- For air frying: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray your air fryer basket with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Blend the Cottage Cheese
- Place the cottage cheese in a food processor or blender.
- Blend on high until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
Step 3: Make the Dough
- Transfer the blended cottage cheese to a medium bowl.
- Add self-rising flour and mix until fully combined. The dough should start pulling away from the sides of the bowl.
- Transfer to a floured surface and knead 8-10 times, until smooth.
- If the dough is sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour.
Step 4: Shape the Bagels
- Roll the dough into a large ball, then divide it into 4 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a 6-7 inch rope, about 1 inch thick.
- Join the ends to form a circle, pinching the seam tightly.
Step 5: Season and Bake
- Brush the tops with a beaten egg.
- Sprinkle with your chosen toppings (everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or shredded cheese).
- For baking: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- For air frying: Air fry for 10-12 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- Let cool for 15 minutes before slicing.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cottage Cheese Bagels
- For fluffier bagels: Don’t over-knead the dough—8-10 kneads are enough.
- Want more protein? Use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a slightly different texture.
- Crispier crust: Air fry for a few extra minutes or broil the bagels for 1-2 minutes after baking.
- Evenly sized bagels: Weigh each dough piece to approximately 80g for uniformity.
- For extra cheesy bagels: Mix shredded cheddar or Asiago into the dough before shaping.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
How to Store:
- Keep bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
How to Freeze:
- Wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and place them in a ziplock bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, toast directly from frozen or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic bagel sandwich: Slice and fill with cream cheese, avocado, or smoked salmon.
- Sweet twist: Spread with peanut butter and drizzle with honey.
- High-protein breakfast: Pair with scrambled eggs and turkey bacon.
- Pizza bagel: Top with marinara, mozzarella, and pepperoni, then bake until bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these bagels gluten-free?
Yes! Use 1 cup gluten-free flour blend and mix with 3 teaspoons baking powder + ½ teaspoon salt to mimic self-rising flour.
2. Do I have to blend the cottage cheese?
Blending creates a smoother texture, but if you prefer a more textured bagel, you can skip this step.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and bake in batches if needed.
4. Are these bagels keto-friendly?
No, because self-rising flour is high in carbs. However, you can experiment with almond flour and baking powder for a lower-carb version.
5. Can I use a different cheese instead of cottage cheese?
Yes! Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese can be used, but the texture may slightly vary.
Final Thoughts
These Cottage Cheese Protein Bagels are a game-changer for those looking for an easy, high-protein, and delicious homemade bagel recipe. With only three simple ingredients, they come together quickly and can be customized to your liking. Whether you bake or air fry them, they’re sure to be a hit!
Try this recipe today and let us know how they turn out. Don’t forget to save and share this recipe with fellow bagel lovers! Happy baking!
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🥯 Cottage Cheese Protein Bagels – Just 3 Ingredients!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 Bagels 1x
Description
These high-protein cottage cheese bagels are soft, chewy, and incredibly easy to make! Whether baked or air-fried, they’re the perfect healthy snack, breakfast, or sandwich base. With only 180 calories and 11g of protein per bagel, you’ll love this guilt-free twist on a classic favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup self-rising flour (see note for substitutions)
- 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese (blended until smooth)
- 1 large egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Toppings: Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or shredded asiago cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. (For air fryer, preheat to 350°F (175°C).)
2️⃣ Blend cottage cheese in a food processor or blender until smooth.
3️⃣ Mix the dough: Transfer cottage cheese to a bowl, add flour, and stir until combined. Knead 8-10 times on a floured surface until smooth. (Add extra flour if sticky.)
4️⃣ Shape the bagels: Divide dough into 4 equal pieces (~80g each). Roll each into a 6-7 inch rope, join the ends, and pinch to seal.
5️⃣ Egg wash & season: Brush bagels with beaten egg and sprinkle with toppings.
6️⃣ Bake: Bake 25-30 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Let cool for 15 minutes before slicing. (For air fryer: Cook for 10-12 minutes at 350°F.)
Notes
✔️ No self-rising flour? Use 1 cup all-purpose flour + 3 tsp baking powder + ½ tsp salt.
✔️ Gluten-Free? Swap for 1 cup gluten-free flour blend + baking powder + salt (tested with King Arthur’s).
✔️ Want extra protein? Try plain Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese.
✔️ Make-ahead friendly! Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 per bagel
- Fat: 4g per bagel
- Carbohydrates: 25g per bagel
- Protein: 11g per bagel