These Cottage Cheese Bagels are fluffy, healthy, and oh-so-easy to make! With creamy cottage cheese mixed into the dough, they pack a protein punch while staying soft and delicious.
Every bite is a treat, especially when you’re feeling a little snacky. I love to add some cream cheese or my favorite jam on top. It’s a breakfast win! 🥯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: You can use either full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese. I prefer full-fat for a richer flavor. If you want non-dairy, try a vegan cream cheese to keep the creamy texture.
Flour: All-purpose flour is great for bagels, but you can substitute half with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Just note that the texture might be a bit denser.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the dough and add texture. For a vegan version, try using 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flax mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
Everything Bagel Seasoning: If you’re out, make your own mix with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and a bit of garlic and onion powder. It’s super easy to whip up!
How Do You Properly Knead Bagel Dough?
Kneading is essential for developing the dough’s structure. Here’s how to do it right!
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and sprinkle a little flour on your hands to prevent sticking.
- Press the dough with the heel of your hand, then fold it over itself.
- Give it a quarter turn, and repeat: press, fold, turn.
- Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Don’t rush it! Proper kneading helps create that chewy bagel texture we all love.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat based on preference)
- 2 large eggs
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Boiling the Bagels:
- Water for boiling (about 6 cups)
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
For Topping:
- Everything bagel seasoning (store-bought or a homemade mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus 20-25 minutes for baking, and 5 minutes to boil the bagels. Overall, you’ll be enjoying your homemade bagels in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will keep your bagels from sticking when they’re baking!
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, and salt. Stir well until everything is nicely combined and smooth. This is where the bagel gets its rich flavor and moisture!
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. This mixture will help the bagels rise nicely as they bake.
4. Form the Dough:
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until a slightly sticky dough forms. Don’t be afraid to use your hands to get it all combined!
5. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as you knead.
6. Shape the Bagels:
Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball. Then, poke a hole through the center of each ball with your finger and carefully stretch it to form a bagel shape. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; they’ll look great once baked!
7. Boil the Bagels:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and stir in the baking soda. This step is crucial as it gives bagels their chewy texture. Boil 2-3 bagels at a time for about 1 minute on each side. Once boiled, remove them with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Add Seasoning:
While the bagels are still wet from boiling, sprinkle a generous amount of everything bagel seasoning on top. This is what gives them that delicious flavor!
9. Bake the Bagels:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
10. Cool and Serve:
Once they are done baking, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool slightly. Then slice them up, spread on some cream cheese or your favorite topping, and enjoy!
These Cottage Cheese Bagels are not only simple to make but also a nutritious treat—perfect for breakfast or a snack. Enjoy your delicious creations!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta or cream cheese for a different texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that ricotta may create a more delicate bagel, while cream cheese could yield a richer taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply toast them or warm them in the oven!
Can I Make These Vegan?
Absolutely! To make vegan bagels, replace the cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative (like vegan cream cheese) and substitute the eggs with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flax mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
What Toppings Pair Well With Cottage Cheese Bagels?
Besides everything bagel seasoning, you can try spreads like cream cheese, avocado, or hummus. You could also add fresh veggies, smoked salmon, or even sweet toppings like jam or honey for a delicious twist!