Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese

Name: Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 egg; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; Toppings as desired (sesame seeds, everything seasoning, etc.)

Highlighted under: Fresh & Balanced Eats

I love starting my day with these Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese! These bagels are not just delicious but also packed with protein, making them a perfect choice for a healthy breakfast or snack. The combination of creamy cottage cheese and the perfectly chewy dough creates a satisfying texture that keeps me full for hours. I often enjoy them with a spread of avocado or a sprinkle of everything seasoning, which elevates their flavor even more. You’ll find that they’re quick to make, too!

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:29:35.801Z

When I first decided to make these bagels, I was looking for a healthy breakfast option that wouldn’t sacrifice taste. I experimented with using cottage cheese in the dough, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well it worked! It added not only protein but also a lovely creaminess that elevates the bagels.

One key tip I found was to let the dough rest a little before shaping it into bagels. This helps to develop a better texture, and you’ll notice the difference in every bite. These bagels have since become a staple in my kitchen!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
High in protein to fuel your day
Chewy texture that satisfies your cravings
Versatile - perfect with sweet or savory toppings

Understanding Ingredient Roles

Each ingredient in these Protein Bagels plays a pivotal role in achieving the desired texture and flavor. The cottage cheese not only provides a protein boost but also contributes moisture, resulting in a tender bagel. Using low-fat or full-fat cottage cheese will yield slightly different textures; I prefer the creaminess of full-fat for a richer taste. Meanwhile, the all-purpose flour forms the structural base, and its gluten content is crucial for the chewiness that makes bagels so satisfying.

Eggs in the dough enhance binding and provide a beautiful golden color during baking. You could experiment with using a flax egg as a vegan alternative, but keep in mind the texture might differ slightly. Baking powder ensures the bagels rise properly, preventing them from turning out dense. Be sure to measure accurately to avoid an imbalance that could lead to issues in the dough’s consistency.

Bagel Shaping Tips

When shaping your bagels, achieving the right size is important to ensure even cooking. Each piece of dough should be roughly the size of a tennis ball before rolling it out. Roll the dough into a rope about 10-12 inches long, and make sure to pinch the ends securely to prevent them from separating during baking. A common mistake is not sealing the ends well enough—keep an eye on this step to avoid bagels that fall apart in the oven.

Try to give the bagels a uniform thickness; this helps them bake evenly. If you prefer a different size, just adjust the dough pieces accordingly, but remember to adjust the baking time slightly if making larger or smaller bagels. You can also create a hole in the center larger than you think, as the bagels will puff up during baking.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

These Protein Bagels are incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. For a savory twist, consider spreading avocado with a pinch of salt or even a drizzle of olive oil. If you lean towards sweet flavors, a touch of honey or almond butter paired with banana slices can be delightful. Adding toppings before baking, like sesame seeds or everything seasoning, offers an extra flavor dimension that elevates the simple bagel experience.

To store your bagels, let them cool completely, then keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months; just ensure they are wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. To enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or pop them in the toaster for a crispy finish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese:

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cottage cheese
1 egg
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
Toppings as desired (sesame seeds, everything seasoning, etc.)

Make sure everything is fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your homemade Protein Bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese and egg, then add it to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into eight equal pieces and roll each piece into a rope. Pinch the ends together to form bagels and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the bagels for about 20 minutes or until they are golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the bagels to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy with your favorite toppings!

Allow your creativity to shine with toppings and spreads!

Pro Tips

You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option or add herbs and spices to the dough for extra flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels don’t rise like you expect, check that your baking powder hasn’t expired. Fresh baking powder is essential for achieving that fluffy interior. Additionally, make sure to mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a tougher texture due to gluten development. If the dough feels dry, a small splash of milk can help moisten it up without compromising the recipe integrity.

Another issue could be if they turn out too dense. This can happen if either the flour measurement is overly packed or if the dough wasn’t kneaded enough. Always fluff the flour with a spoon before measuring to ensure you’re using the correct amount. If you find your bagels too heavy, a little more kneading to incorporate air can significantly improve the overall texture.

Nutritional Adjustments

For those looking to cut back on carbs, consider swapping half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour. This keeps the protein content high while reducing carbohydrates, maintaining a similar texture. Just remember that this will change the flavor profile slightly. Alternatively, for a gluten-free option, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend, but ensure that it contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to help with structure.

If you’re aiming for lower sodium, reducing the salt in the dough is an easy fix. You can also incorporate herbs like dill or chives directly into the dough for added flavor without extra sodium. This not only enhances taste but also adds nutritional benefits—fresh herbs are often packed with vitamins and antioxidants.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well in this recipe. It will still give you protein and flavor!

→ How should I store the bagels?

Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add ingredients like onions or garlic?

Absolutely! You can mix in chopped onions, garlic, or even spices to customize your bagels.

→ What are some topping suggestions?

Try topping them with cream cheese, avocado, smoked salmon, or even nut butter for a tasty twist!