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3-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe

4.5 from 78 reviews

These 3-ingredient cottage cheese bagels are a quick, easy, and high-protein snack or breakfast option. Made from cottage cheese, self-rising flour, and an egg wash, they can be baked in the oven or air fried for a golden-brown, savory treat perfect for sandwiches, toppings, or on their own.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup self-rising flour (or all-purpose/whole wheat flour with 2 tsp baking powder and a pinch of salt; or gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum and 2 tsp baking powder)
  • 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese (blended smooth)

For Egg Wash & Topping

  • 1 large egg (beaten for egg wash)
  • Optional: Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, shredded cheese, or poppy seeds for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the oven rack on the top level. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Blend Cottage Cheese: In a blender or food processor, blend the full-fat cottage cheese until smooth to ensure an even dough texture.
  3. Mix & Knead Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese and self-rising flour. Stir well until a dough forms that pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it 8-10 times until it becomes smooth and pliable.
  4. Shape the Bagels: Divide the dough evenly into four portions. Roll each portion into a rope approximately 6-7 inches long and about 1 inch thick. Join the ends of each rope securely to form a classic bagel shape, pinching the seam to seal.
  5. Apply Egg Wash & Season: Brush the tops of the bagels with beaten egg to promote browning. Sprinkle your preferred topping such as everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, shredded cheese, or poppy seeds for added flavor and texture.
  6. Bake: Place the shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until the bagels turn golden brown. Once baked, let them cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
  7. Air Fryer Option: Alternatively, preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick spray. Place the bagels inside and air fry for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, checking halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Notes

  • You can substitute self-rising flour with all-purpose or whole wheat flour by adding 2 tsp baking powder and a pinch of salt.
  • For a gluten-free version, use 1 cup gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum and 2 tsp baking powder.
  • Store the baked bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freeze bagels for up to 4 months; slice before freezing for easier toasting later.
  • These bagels pack approximately 11 grams of protein each, making them a great healthy, high-protein snack.

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