High-Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe

If you’re looking for a bagel that’s as delicious as it is nourishing, you’ve just struck gold! High-Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels blend the classic chewy texture of bagels with a protein punch that’ll keep you satisfied and energized. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up these homemade beauties in your own kitchen — no fancy equipment or tricks required. Each bite is soft, flavorful, and satisfying, making these bagels a must for breakfast, lunch, or snack time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about this recipe is how deceptively simple the ingredient list is. Each element has a starring role, working together to create bagels that are savory, tender, and bursting with wholesome flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to bring High-Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels to life:

• Self-rising flour: This powerhouse keeps things easy and guarantees pillowy bagels with the perfect rise.
• Full-fat cottage cheese: The secret to amazing tenderness and a boost of protein you can actually taste.
• Large egg: A glossy egg wash not only deepens the golden color on top but also helps your toppings stick.
• Toppings (sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, shredded asiago cheese, or poppy seeds): Your chance to jazz things up with bold flavors, a bit of crunch, or a cheesy finish.

How to Make High-Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels

Step 1: Prepare for Baking

Start by heating your oven to 375 degrees and getting your baking sheet ready with a sheet of parchment paper. Placing your rack near the top ensures the bagels bake up golden and beautiful every time.

Step 2: Blend the Cottage Cheese

Scoop the full-fat cottage cheese into your food processor or blender. Give it a few blitzes on high speed so it turns completely smooth. Scrape down the sides as needed; this step is crucial to banish any lumps and guarantee your High-Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels have the best possible texture.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Transfer that velvety cottage cheese to a medium-sized bowl, then add in the self-rising flour. Mix until it’s totally incorporated and the dough starts pulling cleanly from the bowl’s sides. This is your cue to move on!

Step 4: Knead and Shape

Dust your countertop generously with flour and knead your dough about 8 to 10 times, just until smooth and supple. If it’s sticky, sprinkle on a touch more flour. Then, roll the dough into a ball and split it evenly into 4 pieces (I like to weigh them for uniformity, about 80g each). Shape each into a 6-7-inch rope and close into a circle, pinching the ends to seal for that iconic bagel look.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Brush the tops generously with your beaten egg. This creates a beautiful sheen and acts as glue for your chosen toppings, whether you prefer a cheesy crown or classic everything seasoning. Slide the bagels into the oven and let them bake to deep, golden perfection.

How to Serve High-Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels

Garnishes

These bagels shine with a finishing touch! I’m a sucker for a heavy dose of everything bagel seasoning, but a dusting of sesame, poppy seeds, or a shower of asiago cheese is equally irresistible. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle on minced fresh chives or a tiny pinch of flaky salt right before serving for a pop of extra flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair your High-Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels with smoked salmon, sliced cucumbers, or a scoop of your favorite egg salad for a meal that’s satisfying and chic. They’re also a perfect match for classic breakfast fare: think sharp cheddar, crunchy veggies, or a big, hearty salad for a nutritious lunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to have some fun! Slice your bagels and load them up with a swipe of whipped cream cheese, stacked turkey, and tomato for an energizing midday sandwich. For brunch with friends, serve them in a basket with little bowls of flavored spreads and lots of colorful veggies so everyone can build their own feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover High-Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels are a gift for busy weekday mornings. Place cooled bagels in an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 24 hours, or in the fridge for up to four days. If you plan to eat later in the week, consider slicing them first for quick grabbing and toasting.

Freezing

These bagels freeze beautifully! Let them cool completely, then wrap each one snugly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil. Tuck them into a resealable freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months; just thaw overnight in the fridge or pop straight into the toaster to reheat.

Reheating

For that freshly-baked magic, split your bagels and toast them until warm and crisp. If you prefer a softer texture, wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Either way, you’ll reclaim that irresistible, just-baked feel.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese?

I recommend full-fat cottage cheese for the richest taste and creamiest texture, but if you’re in a pinch, low-fat can work. Just know your bagels might turn out slightly less tender and flavorful.

What if I don’t have self-rising flour?

No worries! Combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to make your own self-rising flour at home.

Can I double the recipe for more bagels?

Absolutely! This recipe scales up really well. Just be sure to blend the cottage cheese in batches if your mixer is on the smaller side, and you’re set for plenty of High-Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels.

Which toppings work best?

Everything bagel seasoning is simply classic, but shredded asiago cheese, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds each bring their own charm and crunch. Don’t be afraid to mix and match to suit your cravings!

Are these bagels gluten-free?

As written, the recipe uses wheat flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with a one-for-one gluten-free flour blend with added baking powder and salt; just be aware results may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried homemade High-Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels, you’re in for a delightful surprise. They’re hearty, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether you love them fresh out of the oven or toasted with your favorite spread, I hope you’ll give this easy, protein-packed twist on classic bagels a try and make them part of your regular kitchen rotation!

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