3-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe
These 3-ingredient cottage cheese bagels are a quick, easy, and high-protein snack or breakfast option. Made with self-rising flour, blended full-fat cottage cheese, and an egg wash, they require no rising time and can be baked in the oven or air fried for convenience. Perfect for topping with cream cheese or using as a sandwich base, they are versatile, make-ahead friendly, and support a healthy lifestyle with 11g of protein per bagel.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup self-rising flour (or see flour alternatives below)
- 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese, blended smooth
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
Optional Toppings
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Sesame seeds
- Shredded cheese
- Poppy seeds
Flour Alternatives
- If using all-purpose or whole wheat flour: 1 cup flour + 2 tsp baking powder + pinch of salt
- For gluten-free: 1 cup gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum + 2 tsp baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and arrange the oven rack on the top level. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Blend Cottage Cheese: Place the full-fat cottage cheese in a blender or food processor and blend until it becomes a smooth, creamy consistency with no lumps.
- Mix & Knead Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese with the self-rising flour. Stir the mixture until a dough forms and pulls away cleanly from the sides of the bowl. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it gently about 8-10 times until smooth and pliable.
- Shape the Bagels: Divide the dough evenly into four portions. Roll each piece into a rope roughly 6-7 inches long and about 1 inch thick. Form each rope into a circle by joining and pinching the ends together to create the traditional bagel shape.
- Egg Wash & Season: Beat the large egg and brush it evenly over the surface of each bagel. Sprinkle your choice of toppings such as everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, shredded cheese, or poppy seeds to add flavor and texture.
- Bake: Place the bagels on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until they turn golden brown. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Air Fryer Option: To cook in an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick spray and arrange the shaped bagels inside. Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, checking for doneness.
Notes
- To freeze, slice bagels before freezing and store in an airtight bag for up to 4 months; toast from frozen for a quick snack.
- If substituting flours, add baking powder and salt to ensure proper rise and texture.
- Use full-fat cottage cheese for the best texture and flavor.
- These bagels do not require proofing or rising time, making them a fast recipe.
- Store baked bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days.
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