Cottage Cheese Bagels

Isabella

These cottage cheese bagels are soft, chewy, and irresistibly delicious—made easily at home without long rising or boiling. Creamy cottage cheese creates a tender, protein-rich dough that bakes into golden bagels perfect for breakfast, snacks, or sandwiches.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 4 bagels

Course: Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Bagel Dough:
1 cup full-fat cottage cheese – gives moisture and tanginess
1 cup self-rising flour – for structure and lift
1 large egg beaten, for the egg wash
Toppings Optional, Choose Your Favorite:
Sesame seeds
Everything bagel seasoning
Shredded Asiago cheese
Poppy seeds
Note: Make sure the cottage cheese is well-drained or patted slightly dry if very wet to prevent overly sticky dough.

Method

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the rack near the top. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth.
Transfer the blended cottage cheese to a mixing bowl. Gradually add the self-rising flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently 8–10 times until smooth and elastic.
Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each into a 6–7 inch rope and pinch the ends together to form bagels.
Place bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush lightly with beaten egg and sprinkle with desired toppings.
Bake for 25–30 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Cool for 15 minutes before slicing.
Optional Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Air fry bagels for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.

Notes

If self-rising flour is unavailable, substitute with 1 cup all-purpose flour plus 1½ teaspoons baking powder and ¼ teaspoon salt. Avoid adding too much extra flour to keep the bagels tender.