High Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels

Name: High Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 egg; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey; Water (for boiling)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with a healthy and filling breakfast, and these High Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels have become one of my favorites. The cottage cheese adds a wonderful creaminess while boosting the protein content, making these bagels perfect for keeping hunger at bay until lunch. We enjoy them toasted with a variety of toppings, from smoked salmon to avocado. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make from scratch, which is always a win in my book!

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:04:12.136Z

When I first discovered this recipe, I was skeptical about using cottage cheese in bagels. However, after trying it out, I was hooked! The texture is incredibly satisfying, and the added protein makes for a nutritious breakfast option. I love experimenting with different flavors by adding herbs or spices to the dough before baking.

Another tip I found helpful is to ensure the bagels are boiled before baking; this step gives them that classic chewy crust we all crave. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort!

        Why You Will Love These Bagels
        Packed with protein to fuel your day
Soft, chewy texture that's irresistible
Customizable with your favorite toppings

      

The Benefits of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese serves as the cornerstone of this recipe, not only providing a creamy texture but also a substantial protein boost. The protein content helps to keep you satisfied longer, making these bagels a smart option for breakfast or a snack. If you're looking to increase the protein even more, consider using high-protein cottage cheese, which can add an additional 2-3 grams of protein per serving.

The acidity in cottage cheese also interacts with the baking powder, contributing to the rise of the bagels. This interaction is crucial for achieving that light, airy texture. It’s important to use fresh cottage cheese; avoid the low-fat versions with added stabilizers, as they can affect the overall consistency of your dough.

Perfecting the Bagel Shape

Shaping the bagels correctly is vital for both aesthetics and cooking. Make sure to roll each portion into a smooth ball before creating the hole. For even cooking, the hole should be about 1-1.5 inches wide. A good trick is to use your thumb and forefinger to create the hole, ensuring that the bagels maintain their shape during boiling and baking.

If your dough feels too sticky while shaping, dust your hands with a little extra flour to make it more manageable. However, avoid adding too much flour at this stage, as it can lead to denser bagels; you want the dough to remain soft and pliable.

Boiling for Authentic Chewiness

Boiling the bagels is a critical step that enhances their texture. Aim for a rolling boil; not too gentle, or they won't cook properly. Each bagel should be boiled for about 2-3 minutes per side to achieve a chewy exterior. Keep an eye on them during this phase; if they’re rising to the surface too quickly, gently press them down with a slotted spoon to keep them submerged.

Don't skip the boiling step as it is essential for developing that characteristic bagel crust. If you prefer a darker color, you may consider adding a tablespoon of malt syrup to the boiling water, which can also enhance the flavor.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1 egg
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey
Water (for boiling)

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for better mixing.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, honey, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the flour until a soft dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then make a hole in the middle using your finger to form a bagel shape.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop each bagel into the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.

Bake the Bagels

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

Let the bagels cool slightly before topping them with your favorite spreads!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different toppings like cream cheese, smoked salmon, or fresh veggies to add more flavor to your bagels.

Storage and Reheating

These bagels can be kept fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you want to store them longer, consider freezing them. Place them in a freezer-safe bag with parchment separator to prevent sticking, and they’ll last for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy some, simply toast them right from the freezer for a few minutes until they’re warm and toasty.

Reheating is straightforward. If you prefer a crisp exterior, pop the bagel halves in a toaster or under the broiler for a couple of minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 20-30 seconds, but this method may result in a softer texture.

Topping Ideas

The beauty of these bagels lies in their versatility. For a classic taste, try topping them with cream cheese and smoked salmon. Add capers, red onion slices, or dill for an additional flavor profile. If you're in the mood for something lighter, mashed avocado topped with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes is a delicious option.

For a sweet variation, spread a layer of almond butter or peanut butter over the toasted bagel and top with sliced bananas or berries. This delightful twist makes it perfect for any time of day, not just breakfast!

Scaling the Recipe

This bagel recipe can easily be scaled up or down according to your needs. If you're planning a brunch, doubling the recipe is a fantastic idea. Make sure to use a larger mixing bowl to accommodate the increased dough size, and allow for sufficient space while boiling.

Conversely, if you’re not sure about making four bagels at once, feel free to halve the ingredients. Just keep in mind that the cooking times will remain the same, so there’s no need to adjust them unless you’re reducing the size of the bagels.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option, but it may change the texture slightly.

→ How can I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer storage.

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Absolutely! Once cooled, place the bagels in a freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of honey?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup for a vegan option.