Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese

Name: Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Optional: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning for topping

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen

I love starting my day with a delicious homemade bagel that not only satisfies my cravings but also fuels my body with protein. These Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese are incredibly easy to make, and you can whip up a batch in no time. The combination of creamy cottage cheese and the perfect bagel texture is something that makes these bagels a staple in my kitchen. Plus, they are versatile, allowing me to enjoy them plain, topped, or even as part of a nutritious sandwich.

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:13:35.794Z

Making these Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese was a game-changer for my breakfast routine. I experimented with different ratios of cottage cheese to flour, and I found that a 1:1 ratio gives the best texture—fluffy yet slightly chewy. Using Greek yogurt instead of water enhances the protein content even further, making these bagels a nutritious choice.

What I love most about this recipe is how easily customizable it is. I often add herbs or seasonings like garlic powder or everything bagel seasoning to the dough for an extra flavor kick. It turns a simple bagel into something really special!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
High in protein to keep you full and satisfied
Easy to make with just a few ingredients
Versatile for breakfast, lunch, or snacks
Great texture with a slightly chewy bite

The Versatility of Protein Bagels

These Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for any meal or snack throughout the day. You can enjoy them plain, simply spread with a little butter, or as a base for more elaborate toppings. Consider adding avocado, smoked salmon, or your favorite deli meats to create a hearty sandwich. They also work wonderfully with a variety of spreads like hummus or cream cheese, allowing you to customize them to your taste preferences.

If you're looking to switch things up, try using different toppings such as sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning. These toppings not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a delightful crunch. Feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations to find your personal favorites; the bagels' neutral flavor pairs really well with sweet or savory toppings alike.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great things about these bagels is that they can be made in advance. After baking, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, and you can pop them in the toaster straight from the freezer for a quick breakfast on busy mornings.

If you're worried about them becoming stale, consider reheating them in the oven for a refreshing crispiness. Simply preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the previously frozen bagels for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and the exterior feels slightly crispy again. This method rejuvenates their texture, ensuring that you can enjoy fresh-tasting bagels even after freezing.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese:

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cottage cheese
1 large egg
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning for topping

Make sure to measure carefully for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your protein-packed bagels:

Preheat and Prepare the Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cottage cheese, egg, baking powder, and salt. Stir until a dough forms.

Form the Bagels

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it gently until smooth. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces, rolling each piece into a ball. Poke a hole in the center of each ball to form the bagel shape.

Bake

Place the bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Enjoy them fresh, topped with your favorite spread, or store them in an airtight container for later!

Enjoy your fresh and nutritious protein bagels!

Pro Tips

For a sweeter version, consider adding a tablespoon of honey to the dough for a hint of sweetness. Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination!

Common Troubleshooting Tips

While making these bagels is straightforward, sometimes you may encounter issues with dough consistency. If your dough is too sticky, incorporate a little bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it becomes manageable. Conversely, if the dough feels too dry, add small amounts of cottage cheese until it reaches the right consistency. Ideally, the dough should be tacky but not overly sticky, making it easier to shape correctly.

Another common issue could be uneven baking. To ensure consistent results, be sure to space the bagels evenly on your baking sheet, allowing for proper air circulation. If some bagels are browning faster than others, you might want to rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for an even golden finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to adapt this recipe for dietary preferences, there are a few easy substitutions you can make. For a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum, which helps mimic the chewy texture of traditional bagels. Just verify the blend's suitability for baking, as different mixes vary in composition.

For those who prefer dairy-free options, you can substitute cottage cheese with a vegan alternative like almond or soy-based cream cheese. This will alter the flavor slightly, but will still provide a nice creamy texture. Be sure to choose a product that closely resembles the thickness of cottage cheese to maintain the right dough consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the bagels?

Yes, these bagels freeze well! Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in an airtight container.

→ How can I make them gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

→ What can I use instead of cottage cheese?

You can use ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute for cottage cheese.

→ How long do these bagels last?

They are best enjoyed fresh but can last 2-3 days in the fridge in an airtight container.