Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese

Name: Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese
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 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional); Water for boiling

Highlighted under: Fresh Daily Nutrition

I absolutely love making these Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese for breakfast or a snack. They are not only delicious but also packed with protein, making them a great option for those busy mornings when you need something quick yet satisfying. The cottage cheese adds a creamy texture, while the bagels offer that perfect chewiness. I often top them with fresh herbs or a slice of smoked salmon for an extra flavor boost. Trust me, you’ll want to make a batch of these to keep on hand!

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:49:36.491Z

Making these Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese has been a game-changer for my meal prep. I remember the first time I pulled them from the oven; the aroma filled my kitchen, and I knew I had created something special. The technique I use—mixing the dough just until combined—ensures the bagels have a chewy texture without being dense, which is vital for that classic bagel bite.

Another tip I've discovered over the years is to let the bagels rest for a few minutes before boiling them. This helps them hold their shape better in the water and gives a lovely crust once baked. Trust me; once you try these, traditional bagels will take a back seat!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Packed with protein to keep you full and satisfied
Deliciously chewy texture that rivals store-bought
Customizable with your favorite toppings
Great for meal prep or quick breakfasts

Dough Consistency Matters

Achieving the right dough consistency is crucial for a great bagel. When mixing the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, you should aim for a shaggy dough that is slightly sticky but holds together. If the dough feels too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches that ideal consistency. Avoid over-kneading, as this can lead to a dense bagel that lacks that chewy texture we all love.

After kneading, let the dough rest briefly. This step allows the gluten to relax, which helps in shaping the bagels. Keeping your hands lightly floured during shaping can prevent sticking and help you form uniform bagels. Remember, the shape affects not only the appearance but the baking time as well, so take care to shape evenly.

Boiling Techniques for Perfect Bagels

Boiling the bagels is a step that cannot be missed, as it contributes to the authentic chewy texture. When you gently drop the bagels into the boiling water, cook them for about 2 minutes on each side. You should see them bobbing slightly, which indicates they are cooking properly. If they sink right away, the dough might be too dense; in that case, ensure your dough is not over-kneaded.

You can enhance the flavor of your bagels by adding a tablespoon of honey or malt syrup to the boiling water. This not only adds a subtle sweetness but can also help achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust during baking. Be cautious not to overcrowd the pot; boil in batches if necessary to maintain the boiling temperature.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cottage cheese
1 large egg
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Water for boiling

With your ingredients ready, let's move to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. In another bowl, whisk the egg and cottage cheese until blended. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Lightly flour your work surface and knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape each into a bagel by forming a ring with your hands.

Boil the Bagels

In a large pot of boiling water, gently drop in the bagels, cooking them for about 2 minutes on each side. This step gives the bagels their signature texture.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the boiled bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the bagels cool before slicing and serving!

Pro Tips

For a savory twist, try adding herbs or spices to the dough before baking. You can also experiment with different toppings like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning for added flavor!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Once your bagels have cooled completely, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply place the bagels in a ziplock bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop them directly into a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, which will revive their chewy texture.

If you find yourself with leftover bagels after a gathering, they make for an excellent base for sandwiches or can be sliced and toasted for a quick breakfast option. I often enjoy them with cream cheese and chives, but feel free to get creative with toppings like hummus or avocado.

Customizing Your Bagels

These protein bagels are a fantastic base for customization. You can fold in shredded cheese, diced sun-dried tomatoes, or chopped olives into the dough for extra flavor. Additionally, consider topping the bagels with everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds before baking to enhance their appeal and crunch.

For a lower-carb version, you can substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with almond flour, although keep in mind that the texture may vary. If you're avoiding dairy, try using a plant-based yogurt in place of cottage cheese. Experimenting with flavors can make each batch feel fresh and exciting!

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, whole wheat flour will work but may change the texture slightly. You might need to add a bit more water.

→ How should I store the bagels?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

→ What are some topping ideas for these bagels?

Cream cheese, avocado, smoked salmon, or your favorite spreads are all fantastic choices!