Table of Contents
Description
These Cottage Cheese Bagels are soft, high-protein, and low-carb — the perfect healthy breakfast or snack made in minutes with simple ingredients!
🧡 Introduction
If you’ve been craving a bagel that fits into a healthy, low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing flavor, you’re going to fall in love with these Cottage Cheese Bagels. Soft, chewy, protein-packed, and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to feel restrictive. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto-friendly, or high-protein diet — or you’re just looking for a better alternative to regular bagels — this recipe will be a new favorite.
What makes these bagels so amazing is how simple they are. With just a few basic ingredients, including creamy cottage cheese, you can whip up bakery-style bagels that are just as delicious as traditional ones but far healthier. Cottage cheese adds moisture, protein, and a slightly tangy flavor that gives these bagels their signature taste. Plus, they’re versatile — perfect for breakfast sandwiches, lunch on the go, or an afternoon snack with your favorite spread.
If you’re looking for an easy healthy recipe that tastes indulgent, works great for meal prep, and can be customized with different flavors, these Cottage Cheese Bagels check all the boxes. Let’s get into how to make them! 🥯✨
🧂 Recipe Equipment
You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe. Here’s what you’ll use:
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Air fryer or oven
- Spoon or dough scraper
- Cooling rack
📍 Recipe Stat Sheet
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 12–15 minutes (air fryer) / 18–20 minutes (oven) |
| Total Time: | 25–30 minutes |
| Servings: | 4 small bagels |
| Diet: | High-Protein, Low-Carb, Keto-Friendly, Gluten-Free Option |
🧀 Ingredients
For the Cottage Cheese Bagels
- 1 cup cottage cheese (blended smooth)
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp Everything Bagel Seasoning (plus extra for topping)
- Pinch of salt
🥛 Ingredient Notes
- Cottage Cheese: Blend for a smoother dough texture. Low-fat or full-fat both work; full-fat makes a softer bagel.
- Almond Flour: Gives a low-carb, gluten-free base with a soft texture. Avoid almond meal (grainy texture).
- Egg: Helps bind the dough for structure.
- Baking Powder: Provides lift to create fluffy, airy bagels.
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: Adds classic bagel flavor. Swap for sesame seeds, cheddar, or cinnamon & sweetener for variations.
👩🍳 Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
Start by blending your cottage cheese in a blender or food processor until smooth and creamy. This step ensures the dough isn’t lumpy.
In a mixing bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, almond flour, baking powder, egg, and a pinch of salt. Stir until a soft dough forms. It will be slightly sticky, and that’s okay — that’s what keeps the bagels moist and fluffy.
2. Shape the Bagels
Scoop the dough into 4 portions. Lightly wet your hands or dust them with almond flour to prevent sticking.
Roll each portion into a ball, then gently poke a hole in the center with your finger and stretch it to create a bagel shape. Place onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Add Toppings
Sprinkle the tops generously with Everything Bagel Seasoning or your preferred topping. A little press ensures the seasoning sticks while baking.
4. Cook the Bagels
Air Fryer Method (Best!):
Air fry at 350°F (180°C) for 12–15 minutes until golden and slightly crisp on the outside.
Oven Method:
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes or until puffed and lightly golden.
5. Cool & Enjoy
Transfer to a cooling rack and let them cool for 5 minutes. This helps the bagels set and develop the perfect chewy texture. Slice, toast if desired, and enjoy warm!
💡 Pro Tips & Delicious Variations
- Make Them Sweet: Add ½ tsp cinnamon + 1 tsp sugar-free sweetener + sprinkle with cinnamon “sugar” topping.
- Add More Protein: Mix 1–2 tbsp protein powder into the dough (vanilla for sweet, unflavored for savory).
- Cheesy Version: Add ¼ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella into the dough.
- Meal Prep Tip: Double the recipe — they store well and make breakfast a breeze!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
These Cottage Cheese Bagels pair well with:
- Cream cheese + smoked salmon (classic bagel combo)
- Avocado, salt, and red pepper flakes
- Turkey, lettuce, and cheese for a protein-packed sandwich
- Peanut butter and banana (for a sweet option)
- Eggs and bacon for a breakfast bagel sandwich
Perfect for breakfast, lunch boxes, post-workout snacks, or on-the-go meals!
❄️ Storage Information
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 24 hours.
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individually for up to 2 months. Thaw and toast before eating for best results.
- Reheating: Air fry or toast for 2–3 minutes to restore texture.
🔢 Nutrition Facts (Estimated per bagel)
- Calories: ~135
- Carbs: 5g
- Protein: 11g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
🌟 Final Thoughts
These Cottage Cheese Bagels are the perfect combination of healthy, delicious, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re trying to eat more protein, cut back on carbs, or simply enjoy a nutritious homemade breakfast that tastes like comfort food, this recipe is a total win.