High Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels

Name: High Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey; Sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with a nutritious breakfast, and these High Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels have quickly become my go-to choice. The combination of creamy cottage cheese and chewy bagels makes for a satisfying meal that fuels my morning activities. With the added bonus of being easy to make, this recipe never fails to impress my family and friends. Whether toasted and topped with avocado or enjoyed with a smear of cream cheese, these bagels are a delicious way to kick-start my day with a protein-packed punch.

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:58:12.551Z

When I first discovered that I could incorporate cottage cheese into my bagel recipe, I was amazed at how much moisture and flavor it added. This means my bagels are not only soft but also packed with protein, making them a hearty choice for breakfast. The best part? They come together quickly, requiring minimal effort in the kitchen.

I also like to experiment with toppings and seasonings. Whether I sprinkle some everything bagel seasoning or a pinch of garlic powder into the dough, these simple modifications can really elevate the flavor. I’ve enjoyed sharing these bagels with friends, and they’ve always asked for more!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        High in protein for a filling breakfast option
Versatile toppings make it easy to customize
Simple to prepare and bake at home

      

Nutritional Benefits of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is renowned for its high protein content, making it an excellent choice for a filling breakfast. Each serving of these bagels not only delivers protein but also provides calcium, important for bone health. By incorporating cottage cheese into the bagel dough, you enhance the overall nutritional profile while keeping the texture light and fluffy. It’s a fantastic way to fuel your morning with essential nutrients that keep you energized throughout the day.

Additionally, the presence of cottage cheese adds moisture to the dough, which is essential for achieving the right consistency. It gives the bagels a slightly tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with sweet toppings like honey or savory choices like cream cheese. This balance of taste and nutrition makes cottage cheese a key player in this recipe.

Perfecting Your Bagel Shape

Shaping the bagels can be tricky if you’ve never done it before. To create the perfect hole for your bagels, I recommend using a floured finger to push through the center of each ball of dough carefully. Ensure you do this gently to avoid deflating the dough, which should remain airy for the ideal texture. After shaping, let the bagels rest for about 5 minutes; this helps relax the gluten and contributes to a chewier bagel.

If you prefer a more uniform shape, consider using a donut mold. Simply place the dough in the mold to achieve even circles before baking. This method ensures consistent size and reduces the chance of them spreading too much in the oven.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These bagels can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature or kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bagels after they have cooled completely—simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just defrost and give them a quick toast to revive their chewy texture.

Versatility is key with these bagels. Besides the classic cream cheese spread, you can experiment with a variety of toppings. Consider adding smoked salmon and capers for a savory twist, or layer on fresh fruits and nut butter for a sweet treat. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

For the Bagels

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cottage cheese
1 large egg
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey
Sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, and honey. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then use your finger to create a hole in the middle, shaping it into a bagel. Place the bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Add Toppings and Bake

If desired, sprinkle the bagels with sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bagels to cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy warm or toasted with your favorite spreads!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, try adding herbs or garlic to the dough before baking. These bagels also freeze well, so consider making a double batch and storing the extras for later!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels turn out dense or heavy, make sure you’re measuring the flour correctly. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing it down. Excess flour can lead to a dry dough that doesn't rise properly during baking.

Another common issue is bagels spreading out instead of holding their shape. Ensure that your dough is not too wet. If it seems too sticky while you are shaping, add a little more flour to your work surface but avoid overworking the dough to maintain its airy quality.

Customizing Your Bagels

Feel free to get creative with flavor additions! You can mix in herbs like dill or chives directly into the dough for a savory twist. Alternatively, adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg can give your bagels a delightful sweetness—perfect if you plan to top them with fruit spreads.

Consider using whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend if you’re looking for healthier variations. Just be mindful that the texture may change depending on the flour used, and adjust the liquid accordingly for the right consistency.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This recipe is easily scalable, whether you want to make a smaller batch for yourself or a larger one for a gathering. If you’d like to double the recipe, simply multiply all ingredients by two and monitor baking time closely, as it may vary slightly with more bagels on the pan.

When halving the recipe, be cautious with the egg; you can use a single egg and reserve a part of it for the liquid part of your dough. This way, you won't compromise the bagel's structure and texture while still effectively reducing the overall quantity.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may change the texture slightly. You might need to adjust the liquid in the recipe.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for up to a month.

→ Can I add other ingredients to the dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate add-ins like cheese, herbs, or even diced vegetables to personalize your bagels.

→ How can I make these bagels vegan?

You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and the cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative.