Looking for a quick, protein-packed breakfast or snack that’s delicious, simple, and kid-approved? Cottage cheese bagels might just be your new favorite. With just a few ingredients and a little prep, these chewy bagels come together in under 30 minutes—and they’re loaded with flavor and nutrition. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to make cottage cheese bagels that are golden outside and fluffy inside, plus tips for storage, variation, and even making them gluten-free. Whether you’re baking them for breakfast or stacking them into sandwiches, they’re sure to be a hit!
Why I Can’t Stop Making Cottage Cheese Bagels
The Cottage Cheese Obsession Starts Here
It feels like cottage cheese is finally getting the attention it deserves—and I’m not mad about it! In my kitchen, it’s been a lifesaver lately. Whether I’m blending it into pancakes, tossing it in smoothies, or turning it into savory dips, it’s become a staple in our meals. So when I came across the idea of using it in bagels, I had to try it.
One Saturday morning, I blended cottage cheese with self-rising flour, shaped a few rounds, and popped them into the oven. Twenty-five minutes later, we had golden brown bagels that were chewy, satisfying, and surprisingly high in protein. I knew right away this was going to be a recipe I’d make on repeat. Even my daughter, who normally pushes anything “healthy” to the edge of her plate, devoured hers topped with butter and strawberry jam.
Now, I batch these every Sunday, some for the freezer, some for snacking, and some for the toaster each morning. If you’ve loved our oat and cottage cheese pancakes, then this is the next breakfast game-changer to keep in your back pocket.
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Just 3 Ingredients, All the Bagel Vibes
What really sold me? These cottage cheese bagels only need three ingredients: cottage cheese, self-rising flour, and an egg for that golden crust. That’s it. No yeast. No proofing. No kneading for hours. And yet—they still taste like a bakery treat. Even better? They bake perfectly in both the oven and air fryer.
The texture is everything: soft, chewy, and just the right amount of crispy on top. And with 11 grams of protein per serving, they’re a powerhouse breakfast or snack option. They’re also endlessly customizable. Try them with everything seasoning, shredded cheese, or plain if you’re layering them into a sandwich.
If you’re a fan of cottage cheese in general, you’ll love pairing these with our cottage cheese chip recipe for a high-protein snack plate or turning them into mini breakfast sandwiches stuffed with eggs and avocado.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Bagels Step-by-Step
Start with the Basics: Just Blend, Mix, and Shape
Making cottage cheese bagels is surprisingly easy. All you need is a food processor or blender, a bowl, and a baking tray. Start by blending 1 cup of full-fat cottage cheese until it’s completely smooth. This helps the dough mix evenly and gives your bagels that soft texture we all love.
Next, transfer the blended cottage cheese to a mixing bowl. Add 1 cup of self-rising flour and stir until a sticky dough forms. If you don’t have self-rising flour, just use all-purpose flour with 2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt—it works just as well.
Dust a clean surface with a little flour, then knead the dough for a minute or two. It should become soft and easy to work with. Divide it into 4 equal pieces, roll each one into a rope, and connect the ends to form a bagel shape.
I use this time to let my kids get creative—they love rolling and shaping their own dough. It turns breakfast prep into a fun little activity, and we all end up looking forward to the finished result. If you’re already into making our oat and cottage cheese pancakes, this bagel recipe will feel just as simple and satisfying.
Oven or Air Fryer? You’ve Got Options
Once your cottage cheese bagels are shaped, lay them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush each with a beaten egg white to help them brown beautifully. Add your favorite toppings—everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or even a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
To bake: preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for 25–30 minutes on the top rack. Want to save time? Use the air fryer! Preheat it to 350°F and air fry the bagels for 12–14 minutes until golden and puffed.
Both methods give a chewy texture with a crisp, golden top. Pair these with our cottage cheese chip recipe for a high-protein breakfast spread that’s as fun as it is filling.
PrintCottage Cheese Bagels: Simple, High-Protein & Ready in Minutes
Soft, chewy, and packed with protein—these cottage cheese bagels are made with just 3 ingredients. A quick and healthy breakfast or snack, ready in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 bagels 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking or Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
1 cup self-rising flour
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional: everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or shredded cheese
Instructions
1. Blend cottage cheese until smooth.
2. Mix with flour until a dough forms.
3. Knead lightly and divide into 4 pieces.
4. Roll each into a rope and shape into bagels.
5. Brush tops with egg wash and season.
6. Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes or air fry at 350°F for 12–14 minutes.
7. Cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
For gluten-free: use a 1:1 GF flour blend with baking powder and salt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 182mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
How to Store Cottage Cheese Bagels the Right Way
Keep Them Fresh for Days or Freeze for Later
Once you’ve baked your cottage cheese bagels, you’ll want to store them the right way to keep their texture and flavor intact. Let them cool completely on a wire rack—this prevents moisture from getting trapped inside, which can lead to soggy bottoms (no one wants that).
For short-term storage, place the bagels in an airtight container or zip-top bag. Keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigerating them—this can dry them out much faster. Instead, if you want them to last longer, freeze them.
To freeze, slice the bagels almost all the way through before storing. That way, you can toss them straight into the toaster from frozen. Wrap each one in parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
If you’re the meal prep type, this method makes cottage cheese bagels a perfect make-ahead breakfast or snack. I usually bake a double batch on Sundays and freeze most of them—saves me so much time during the week!
Looking for more prep-friendly ideas? Our oat and cottage cheese pancakes freeze just as well and reheat beautifully on busy mornings.
Reheat and Top to Your Heart’s Content
Reheating frozen cottage cheese bagels is simple. Pop them in the toaster or oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes. The outside gets perfectly crisp while the inside stays soft and chewy.
I like to serve mine with smashed avocado and chili flakes, but they’re just as tasty with classic butter or cream cheese. And if you’re into bold flavors, try using them for mini sandwiches—tuna salad, turkey, or even egg and cheese.
For another cottage cheese-based snack to pair them with, don’t miss our cottage cheese chip recipe. It’s a savory, protein-packed combo you’ll keep coming back to.
Are Cottage Cheese Bagels Actually Healthy? Yes—Here’s Why
More Protein, Less Guilt in Every Bite
Let’s get one thing straight—cottage cheese bagels aren’t just a viral trend. They’re a genuinely smart option for anyone trying to eat better without giving up comfort foods. Each bagel packs about 11 grams of protein, thanks to the cottage cheese base. That’s more than double the protein in a typical white flour bagel.
That high protein count isn’t just a buzzword. It helps keep you full longer, supports muscle growth, and provides sustained energy—especially helpful for growing kids, busy parents, or anyone who skips lunch because their day gets away from them.
Compared to traditional bagels, these also use fewer ingredients and no added sugar. You control the toppings, so you can keep it simple with everything seasoning or go big with fiber-rich seeds like chia or flax.
If your mornings already include high-protein staples like our oat and cottage cheese pancakes, then these cottage cheese bagels will fit right into your daily routine.
Flexible for Many Diets and Lifestyles
Another big plus? Cottage cheese bagels can fit into several dietary needs. They can be made gluten-free with a 1:1 flour substitute (like King Arthur’s blend with xanthan gum) and customized for vegetarian diets. Just skip cheese toppings or swap for dairy-free alternatives if needed.
They also work well for meal preppers and anyone tracking macros. Each one contains about 180 calories, 25g of carbs, and only 4g of fat. It’s a lighter, more balanced option that still satisfies your craving for something warm and bready.
Want to add more to your cottage cheese menu? Try our cottage cheese chip recipe as a crunchy, protein-rich snack that pairs perfectly with your bagel on the side.
FAQ About Cottage Cheese Bagels
What Molly Made cottage cheese bagels—what’s the difference?
The version from What Molly Made popularized the use of just three ingredients: cottage cheese, self-rising flour, and egg wash. This recipe stays true to that simplicity while offering flexibility—like air frying or baking and different topping options. If you love her version, you’ll definitely enjoy these cottage cheese bagels made right at home.
How to make cottage cheese bagels at home?
To make cottage cheese bagels, blend 1 cup of full-fat cottage cheese until smooth. Mix it with 1 cup of self-rising flour until a dough forms. Knead, shape into four bagels, brush with egg wash, and bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes—or air fry at 350°F for 12–14 minutes. They’re quick, easy, and super satisfying.
How do you store cottage cheese bagels?
Once cool, store your cottage cheese bagels in an airtight bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. To freeze, slice them nearly all the way through and wrap individually. They reheat beautifully in the toaster or oven, straight from frozen. Avoid refrigerating, as it can dry them out.
Are cottage cheese bagels healthy?
Yes! Cottage cheese bagels are high in protein, low in fat, and free from added sugar. Each one has about 11 grams of protein and 180 calories, making them a smart choice for breakfast or snacks. They’re also easy to make gluten-free with the right flour blend and ideal for anyone looking for a wholesome option.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a quick, protein-packed alternative to store-bought bagels, these cottage cheese bagels deliver in every way. With only three simple ingredients, no yeast, and less than 30 minutes of total time, they’ve become a staple in our busy kitchen. Whether you bake or air fry them, top them with seasoning or stuff them into sandwiches, the options are endless.
As a mom and chef, I love finding nourishing recipes that actually make life easier—and this one truly does. Add them to your weekend prep list, freeze a batch, and you’ll never have to skip breakfast again. Don’t forget to pair them with one of our cottage cheese favorites like oat and cottage cheese pancakes or the snack-worthy cottage cheese chip recipe.
