Easy Cottage Cheese Bagels

Name: Easy Cottage Cheese Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 egg; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey; Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making these Easy Cottage Cheese Bagels for breakfast! The combination of the rich, creamy cottage cheese and the chewy bagel texture is simply irresistible. In just a matter of minutes, I can whip up a batch that is not only satisfying but also packed with protein. Whether I'm pairing them with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or just enjoying them plain, these bagels have quickly become a staple in my kitchen. Trust me, once you give them a try, you'll be hooked too!

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:43:09.621Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of using cottage cheese in bagels, I was intrigued. I decided to give it a shot during a busy morning, and I was thrilled with the results. The dough came together quickly, and baking them filled my kitchen with the most delightful aroma.

One trick I've learned is to let the bagels rest for a few minutes after shaping them; this helps develop a better texture and chewiness. These bagels are a great way to start the day and are perfect for meal prepping, too!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich flavor from creamy cottage cheese
A delightful chewiness that satisfies
Quick and easy to make for any occasion

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese serves as the backbone of these bagels, providing both moisture and a rich, creamy texture. Its higher protein content compared to other dairy options makes this recipe a filling choice for breakfast. Look for full-fat or 2% cottage cheese to maximize flavor, though low-fat versions can still yield good results if you're looking to reduce calories.

When mixing the cottage cheese into the dough, ensure it's well blended with the egg and honey to create a uniform mixture. This step is crucial because any larger curds can result in uneven baking, leading to inconsistently textured bagels. Using a fork or a whisk can help break down the curds more effectively.

Shaping and Baking Techniques

For perfectly shaped bagels, make sure to poke a hole in the center that is large enough—about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. This hole will prevent the bagels from puffing up excessively during baking. If you're new to shaping bagels, practice makes perfect, and they don’t have to be perfect circles; a bit of rustic charm adds to their homemade appeal.

When baking, keep an eye on the bagels during the final minutes. They should be golden brown and firm to the touch. If they appear too pale, they may need an extra couple of minutes in the oven, but watch closely to avoid over-baking. I recommend rotating the pan halfway through for even cooking.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make these delicious bagels!

Bagel Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 egg
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey
Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)

Now that you have everything ready, let's start making the bagels!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your bagels!

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the cottage cheese, egg, honey, and salt until well combined. Gradually stir in the flour and baking powder until a dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into six equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then poke a hole in the center to shape them into bagels. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the bagels. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bagels to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite toppings!

Enjoy your homemade cottage cheese bagels!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding herbs or garlic powder to the dough before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These cottage cheese bagels are incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. They pair beautifully with classic options like cream cheese and smoked salmon, but try spreading a bit of avocado for a fresh twist. You can also create a mini breakfast sandwich by adding cooked eggs or turkey bacon between two halves.

For a sweeter option, consider topping them with a light drizzle of honey or a smear of fruit preserves. The subtle hint of sweetness from the honey in the dough complements various spreads impeccably, making these bagels suitable for both savory and sweet cravings.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you plan on making these bagels ahead of time, you can prepare the dough and shape them, then freeze the unbaked bagels. Simply place them on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a sealed bag or container. When you're ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Leftover bagels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days, or in the fridge for a week. To reheat, simply toast them for a few minutes until warm and crisp, bringing back their delightful chewiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works just as well in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

→ What can I top my bagels with?

You can top them with cream cheese, avocado, smoked salmon, or even fresh vegetables for a tasty snack.