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 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 egg, beaten; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey; Sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making these High Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels for breakfast. They are not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying, keeping me fueled throughout the morning. The cottage cheese adds a fantastic texture and protein boost, making them a perfect choice for those busy days. I’ve experimented with different toppings, and they’ve all been a hit! Whether you enjoy them plain or topped with your favorite spreads, these bagels are a game-changer and a wonderful way to start your day off right!

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:28:09.705Z

When I first set out to create these High Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels, I wanted something that combined nutrition with flavor. The key lies in using high-quality cottage cheese, which not only enhances the protein content but also gives a unique softness to the bagels. I found that by blending the cottage cheese until smooth, I achieved a creamy consistency that pairs perfectly with the chewy bagel texture.

One of my favorite tips is to let the dough rest for a bit after mixing. This helps develop the gluten, making your bagels delightfully chewy on the outside while remaining soft inside. Trust me, it’s a small step that makes a world of difference in the final result. Plus, I love trying different toppings for variety!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein to keep you energized
Chewy texture with a delicious creamy flavor
Versatile for any topping or spread, sweet or savory

      

Understanding the Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a key ingredient in this bagel recipe, bringing a unique texture and a substantial protein boost. Its moisture content helps create a chewy bagel that is unlike traditional bread-based versions. The acidity in cottage cheese also acts as a natural tenderizer, ensuring your bagels turn out light and fluffy. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, you can use low-fat cottage cheese, but the texture may be slightly less creamy.

When blending cottage cheese, it's important to achieve a smooth consistency. This will help integrate it evenly into the dough, ensuring each bite is filled with its delicious flavor. A food processor can make this step easier, but a strong whisk will also do the trick. Just be careful not to over-blend; you want a creamy mixture, not a liquid one.

Shaping Perfect Bagels

Shaping the bagels properly is crucial for achieving that classic bagel look and texture. After dividing the dough, roll each portion gently into a rope about 10-12 inches long. Use your thumbs to create a hole in the middle, ensuring it's big enough to allow for expansion while baking. Pinching the ends tightly will prevent them from coming apart during the rising process. If you notice the holes closing up during shaping, simply reshape them before placing them on the baking sheet.

To get a nicely browned crust, ensure that your oven is at the right temperature before baking. If you notice the tops aren’t browning as expected, you can turn on the broiler for the last minute of baking, watching closely to avoid burning. The end goal is a golden-brown exterior with a glossy finish; it gives a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the chewy interior.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious bagels:

Main Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 egg, beaten
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey
Sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (optional, for topping)

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your cottage cheese bagels:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, blend the cottage cheese until smooth. Add in the egg, honey, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each piece into a rope and shape it into a bagel, pinching the ends to seal.

Add Toppings

If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top of each bagel.

Bake the Bagels

Place the bagels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the bagels to cool for a few minutes before slicing them open. Enjoy plain or with your favorite toppings!

Serve and enjoy these nutritious bagels at any time of day!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different types of cheese or add herbs to the dough for extra flavor!

Variations and Toppings

One of the best things about these bagels is their versatility when it comes to toppings. You can enhance the flavors by adding garlic powder, onion flakes, or even fresh herbs like chives into the dough before shaping. For a sweet variation, consider adding a tablespoon of cinnamon and a splash of vanilla extract to the mixture, creating a delightful breakfast treat when paired with cream cheese.

For the toppings, don't be afraid to experiment. A simple spread of cream cheese can be elevated with sliced cucumbers or smoked salmon for a satisfying meal. Alternatively, a smear of peanut butter and banana slices offers a nutritious and filling option that complements the protein-packed bagel.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These high-protein cottage cheese bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but they store well for later use. Allow them to cool completely before storing 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’ll keep for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen bagel, simply remove it from the freezer and toast it straight from frozen for a quick breakfast. They will toast up nicely, maintaining their chewy texture. For a softer consistency, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them gently in a toaster oven or microwave.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ How long do these bagels last?

They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

→ Can I add other toppings besides sesame seeds?

Absolutely! Try toppings like poppy seeds, garlic powder, or even cheese for added flavor.

→ Are these bagels gluten-free?

To make gluten-free bagels, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.