Cottage Cheese Bagel Recipes

Name: Cottage Cheese Bagel Recipes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 egg (for egg wash); Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Lightly Delicious

I absolutely love experimenting with cottage cheese, especially when it comes to making bagels! This delightful creamy ingredient adds not only a unique flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of my favorite breakfast. The combination of chewy bagels and creamy cottage cheese is pure bliss. Today, I’m sharing my go-to recipes that transform a plain bagel into a delicious canvas for your favorite toppings. Whether you're a busy professional or a weekend brunch enthusiast, these recipes are simple and satisfying.

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:49:15.399Z

When I first decided to incorporate cottage cheese into my bagel recipes, I was amazed at how this creamy ingredient elevated the dish. The moisture it adds makes for a wonderfully chewy bagel without sacrificing texture. The best part? You can easily customize the toppings based on your mood or the season!

One specific tip I’ve learned is to mix the cottage cheese with herbs and spices for an even richer flavor. It not only enhances the taste but also turns a simple bagel into a gourmet experience. Trust me, your breakfast routine will never be the same!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy cottage cheese enhances the bagel's texture.
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Healthy, protein-packed breakfast option.

      

Understanding Ingredients

The backbone of these cottage cheese bagels is, of course, the cottage cheese itself. It contributes a rich creaminess that not only enhances texture but also infuses the bagels with moisture. When selecting your cottage cheese, I recommend opting for a medium or large curd variety as these will lend some delightful chewiness to the dough. Low-fat options work well too, ensuring you maintain the health benefits without sacrificing too much flavor.

The flour you choose can significantly affect your bagel's final texture. All-purpose flour provides a balance of chewiness and tenderness that’s perfect for this recipe. However, if you're looking to boost the nutritional profile further, you can swap in whole wheat flour. Just be aware that this may result in a denser bagel. If you wish, adding a tablespoon of vital wheat gluten can help improve the rise and texture when using whole wheat.

Mastering the Technique

Shaping your bagels is not just about aesthetics; it plays a crucial role in their final texture. To ensure even cooking and a beautiful shape, make sure to roll each dough piece into an even rope about 10-12 inches long before pinching the ends together. This helps create a uniform bagel that cooks evenly. If the dough feels too sticky, lightly flour your hands rather than adding extra flour to the dough, which could make the bagels tough.

Egg wash adds a beautiful sheen to your bagels before baking. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, a mixture of aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) and a splash of water can create a similar glossy finish. For a crunchier texture, consider sprinkling the bagels with seeds before baking, which not only adds flavor but also an appealing visual contrast.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

Cottage Cheese Bagel Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup cottage cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 egg (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)

Make sure to have all ingredients ready for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious cottage cheese bagels:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly.

Combine wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the cottage cheese and olive oil until well blended.

Combine wet and dry ingredients

Add the cottage cheese mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.

Shape the bagels

Divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each part into a rope and then pinch the ends together to form a bagel shape.

Add egg wash

Beat the egg and brush it over the bagels for a golden finish. Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds if desired.

Bake

Place bagels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Once baked, let the bagels cool before slicing and topping.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding garlic powder or herbs to the cottage cheese mixture before applying it to your bagel.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can be stored for later enjoyment. If you plan to make them ahead of time, allow the baked bagels to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for up to three days or can be frozen for up to two months. For freezing, individually wrap them in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can take out a bagel whenever the craving strikes!

To reheat the frozen bagels, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the bagels directly on the rack to allow moisture to escape, and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, a few minutes in the microwave on medium power works too—just be careful not to overdo it, as they can become chewy.

Creative Topping Ideas

The versatility of these cottage cheese bagels opens the door to endless topping possibilities. For a savory twist, spread some smoked salmon and cream cheese for a classic bagel experience, or layer avocado and red pepper flakes for a fresh, healthy option. You could even try a Mediterranean flair with feta cheese, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil.

If you have a sweet tooth, consider topping your bagels with a layer of cottage cheese, a drizzle of honey, and fresh berries for a delightful breakfast. Toasted nuts or granola can add a satisfying crunch. The key is to balance the creaminess of the cottage cheese with complementary flavors, creating a satisfying bite every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta or cream cheese, but the texture will differ.

→ How long do these bagels last?

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the bagels?

Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

→ What toppings go well with cottage cheese bagels?

Consider fresh fruits, smoked salmon, or avocado for tasty toppings that complement the bagels perfectly.