Are you looking for a delicious, protein-packed bagel recipe that’s simple to make and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients? These 3-ingredient cottage cheese bagels are going to be your new favorite obsession. Whether you prefer baking them in the oven or crisping them up in the air fryer, these bagels are the perfect high-protein snack, breakfast staple, or sandwich base. They are light, fluffy, and packed with protein, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.
Why You’ll Love These Cottage Cheese Bagels
- Simple Ingredients – Only three essential ingredients are needed: self-rising flour, cottage cheese, and an egg wash.
- High in Protein – Thanks to cottage cheese, each bagel is loaded with protein to keep you full longer.
- Versatile – Enjoy them with your favorite toppings, use them for sandwiches, or eat them as a snack.
- Gluten-Free Friendly – Swap regular flour for a quality gluten-free blend and enjoy these bagels without worry.
- Quick to Make – Prep time is only 10 minutes, and you’ll have fresh, homemade bagels in about 35 minutes!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 cup self-rising flour (See Notes for Gluten-Free Option)
- 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional Toppings: Sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, shredded asiago cheese, or poppy seeds
Instructions
Oven-Baked Method
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the rack to the top position. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Blend the Cottage Cheese: Add the cottage cheese to a food processor or blender and blend on high until smooth. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure a creamy consistency.
- Make the Dough: Transfer the blended cottage cheese to a medium bowl and add the flour. Mix well until fully combined and the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl.
- Knead the Dough: Lightly flour your work surface and knead the dough 8-10 times until smooth. If the dough is too sticky, continue adding flour 1 tablespoon at a time until manageable.
- Shape & Season: Divide the dough into 4 equal portions (approximately 80g each if using a kitchen scale). Roll each portion into a 6-7 inch rope (about 1 inch thick), then form a circle and pinch the ends together to seal. Brush with the beaten egg and sprinkle your chosen toppings.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bagels are puffed and golden brown. Let them cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Air Fryer Method
- Preheat: Set the air fryer to 350°F and allow it to preheat for 5 minutes.
- Prepare Bagels: Follow steps 2-5 from the oven-baked method.
- Air Fry: Spray the air fryer basket with nonstick spray, place the bagels inside, and air fry for 12-14 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through.
Storage & Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store bagels in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep them fresh for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap each bagel in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Defrost before reheating.
- Reheat: Toast in an air fryer or oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
These protein-packed bagels are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:
- Classic Breakfast: Spread cream cheese or butter on top.
- Savory Sandwich: Use them as a base for breakfast sandwiches with eggs, bacon, or avocado.
- Sweet Treat: Top with honey, almond butter, or fresh berries.
- Lunch Option: Slice and use as a sandwich with turkey, ham, or grilled chicken.
Helpful Tips & Notes
- Flour Substitutes: If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by mixing 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum, such as King Arthur’s, and mix with the same ratio of baking powder and salt.
- Dough Consistency: The type of cottage cheese you use will affect the dough. If it’s too sticky, gradually add more flour until manageable.
- Greek Yogurt Alternative: You can substitute Greek yogurt for cottage cheese, but the texture may differ slightly.
Final Thoughts
These cottage cheese protein bagels are a game-changer for anyone looking for a simple, delicious, and nutritious homemade bagel option. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, they fit into busy schedules while offering a satisfying, protein-packed bite. Whether you bake them in the oven or use an air fryer, these bagels are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Try them out today and experiment with your favorite toppings and spreads. Let us know how you like them and share your creations!
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Cottage Cheese Protein Bagel
Ingredients
✅ 1 cup self-rising flour
✅ 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
✅ 1 large egg (beaten, for egg wash)
✅ Toppings: sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, asiago cheese, or poppy seeds
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 375°F (top rack) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Blend cottage cheese until smooth.
3️⃣ Mix & Knead: Combine blended cottage cheese with flour. Knead on a floured surface 8-10 times until smooth.
4️⃣ Shape & Season: Divide dough into 4 balls, roll into ropes, shape into circles, and seal. Brush with egg wash and add toppings.
5️⃣ Bake for 25-30 min until golden brown. Let cool for 15 min.
Air Fryer Option: Preheat to 350°F, spray the basket, and air fry for 12-14 min.
💡 Storage: Stays fresh in an airtight container for up to 4 days!
Nutrition
- Calories: 150 per bagel
- Fat: 4g per bagel
- Carbohydrates: 22g per bagel
- Protein: 10g per bagel