Cottage Cheese Protein Bagels

Imagine biting into a soft, chewy bagel that's not only delicious but also packed with protein—all made with just two main ingredients and ready in 30 minutes. These Cottage Cheese Protein Bagels are a game-changer for busy mornings when you want something wholesome, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. No yeast, no waiting for dough to rise, just mix, shape, and bake. Whether you're fueling up for a workout, looking for a nutritious breakfast option, or simply craving a homemade bagel without the fuss, this recipe delivers golden, pillowy perfection every single time.

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The beauty of these protein bagels lies in their simplicity and versatility. Cottage cheese not only adds moisture and a tender crumb but also boosts the protein content significantly, making each bagel a satisfying choice that keeps you full longer. The self-rising flour does all the leavening work, creating a light, airy texture without any complicated steps. Top them with everything bagel seasoning for a classic deli-style experience, or keep them plain and simple—either way, you'll have a batch of freshly baked bagels that taste like you spent hours in the kitchen, not minutes.

Ingredients

• Dough: 1 cup (240 g) cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat), 1½ cups (190 g) self-rising flour
• Toppings (optional): 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash), 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the oven and baking sheet

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

Step 2: Mix the dough

In a large bowl, mix cottage cheese and self-rising flour until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the dough

Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for 1–2 minutes, just until smooth (do not over-knead).

Step 4: Shape the bagels

Divide dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each into a rope, then form into a bagel shape and pinch ends to seal.

Step 5: Add toppings

Place bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with desired toppings.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 7: Cool and serve

Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To make your own self-rising flour, simply whisk together 1½ cups all-purpose flour, 2¼ tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt. When kneading the dough, be gentle and avoid overworking it—this keeps the bagels soft and tender rather than tough. If the dough feels too sticky, dust your hands and work surface lightly with flour, but don't add too much or the bagels may become dense. For perfectly round bagel shapes, roll each piece of dough into a rope about 8 inches long, then wrap it around your hand and roll the seam on the counter to seal. The egg wash is optional but highly recommended for achieving that beautiful golden, shiny crust.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a dairy-free version, substitute the cottage cheese with a plant-based high-protein yogurt, though results may vary slightly in texture. Add extra flavor to the dough itself by mixing in chopped fresh herbs like chives, dill, or rosemary, or fold in shredded cheese such as cheddar or parmesan. Experiment with different toppings beyond everything bagel seasoning—try coarse sea salt, garlic flakes, dried onion, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a sweet variation. You can also make mini bagels by dividing the dough into 8 pieces instead of 4, adjusting the baking time to 12–15 minutes. For those following specific diets, these bagels are naturally vegetarian and can be made lower in calories by using low-fat cottage cheese.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these protein bagels fresh from the oven with your favorite spreads—cream cheese, butter, avocado, or nut butter all pair beautifully. Toast them for extra crunch and top with smoked salmon, capers, and red onion for a classic bagel-and-lox breakfast. They're also perfect as a base for breakfast sandwiches: slice in half and fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and crispy bacon or turkey sausage. For a lighter option, spread with Greek yogurt and top with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey. These bagels store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or freeze individually wrapped for up to 3 months—just thaw and toast when ready to enjoy.

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These Cottage Cheese Protein Bagels prove that healthy, homemade baking doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With minimal ingredients, no special equipment, and a quick bake time, you can enjoy fresh, protein-packed bagels any day of the week. They're perfect for meal prep, freeze beautifully, and satisfy that bagel craving without any of the guilt. Whether you're new to baking or a seasoned pro looking for a shortcut, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen—simple, delicious, and endlessly adaptable to your tastes.