Soft, chewy cottage cheese bagels made with just three simple ingredients offer a fast and satisfying homemade option without the need for complicated steps or long rising times.

Cottage cheese adds moisture and a boost of protein, creating a tender interior while still giving that classic bagel texture on the outside.

Another protein healthy snack I suggest for trying out, protein waffles, tasty and simple, while staying healthy!

Preparation takes minimal effort, making it perfect for busy mornings or a quick snack any time of day.

Enjoy them as a base for breakfast sandwiches, toasted and spread with cream cheese or butter, or paired with eggs and avocado for a more filling meal.

Different toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning can easily be added to change up the flavor each time you bake them.

Plate of baked cottage cheese bagels with a crispy crust and a side of jam

Cottage Cheese Bagels

Perfect for busy mornings or a satisfying snack, these bagels can be enjoyed toasted with butter, layered into breakfast sandwiches, or topped with avocado and eggs.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 bagels
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup cottage cheeseĀ 
  • 1 cup self-rising flourĀ 
  • 1 egg for egg wash, optional

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone mat
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Clean surface for shaping dough
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    Add cottage cheese to a mixing bowl and stir until smooth.
    Add self-rising flour and mix until a dough forms.
    Bowl of cottage cheese dough being mixed with flour using a wooden spoon
  2. Transfer dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until combined.
    Divide dough into 4 equal portions.
    Hands portioning dough into equal pieces on a floured surface
  3. Roll each portion into a rope and connect ends to form a bagel shape.
    Place shaped bagels onto prepared baking sheet.
    Hands shaping dough into a twisted bagel form on a floured wooden board
  4. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden finish if desired.
    Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
    Allow to cool slightly before slicing and enjoying.
    Golden brown cottage cheese bagels topped with sesame seeds and soft cheese centers on a wooden board

Video

Notes

Nutrient Amount
Calories 180 kcal
Carbohydrates 22 g
Protein 10 g
Fat 5 g
Serving Size 90 g
Saturated Fat 2 g
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5 g
Monounsaturated Fat 1.5 g
Trans Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 45 mg
Sodium 320 mg
Potassium 120 mg
Fiber 1 g
Sugar 2 g
Vitamin A 120 IU
Vitamin C 0 mg
Calcium 80 mg
Iron 1.2 mg

Cooking Tips

  • Dough may feel slightly sticky, add a little flour if needed.
  • Full-fat cottage cheese gives better texture and flavor.
  • Air fryer can be used at 180°C for about 15 minutes.
  • Add toppings like sesame seeds or everything seasoning before baking for extra flavor.

Are There Alternative Ingredients?

A few simple swaps can adjust texture, flavor, or dietary needs without complicating the recipe.

Small changes can still deliver great results while fitting what you have on hand, making cottage cheese bagels flexible and easy to customize.

 

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Cottage Cheese Alternatives

Greek yogurt works as an easy replacement and creates a smoother, less lumpy dough. Flavor turns slightly tangy and texture stays soft, which many people prefer for a more traditional bread-like feel.

Thick plain yogurt can also be used, though it may need a bit more flour if the mixture feels too wet.

Ricotta cheese is another option, giving a slightly richer taste and a softer crumb.

  • Greek yogurt for smooth texture and tangy flavor
  • Plain yogurt for a similar result with slight adjustments
  • Ricotta cheese for a softer and slightly richer bagel

Flour Substitutes

All-purpose flour can replace self-rising flour by adding 1½ teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt per cup.

Whole wheat flour can be used for part of the flour to add fiber, though bagels may turn out a bit denser and more hearty.

Gluten-free flour blends can also work, but the texture may be slightly different and may require extra binding.

  • All-purpose flour + baking powder + salt as a substitute
  • Whole wheat flour for added fiber and a denser texture
  • Gluten-free blends for dietary needs with slight texture changes

Egg Wash Options

Egg wash adds a golden finish but is not required. Milk or a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk can give a similar color, though slightly lighter.

Skipping it entirely still produces good results with a more matte finish. A light brush of olive oil can also help achieve a subtle sheen.

  • Egg wash for classic golden color
  • Milk or plant-based milk for a lighter finish
  • Olive oil for a mild shine
  • No wash for a soft, natural look

Dairy-Free Choices

Plant-based cottage cheese or thick dairy-free yogurt can replace regular dairy options.

Texture may vary slightly depending on the brand, so adjusting the flour may help achieve the right dough consistency.

Coconut-based or almond-based products tend to work best due to their thickness.

  • Plant-based cottage cheese is a close alternative
  • Dairy-free yogurt for similar moisture and structure
  • Adjust flour as needed to balance consistency

Summary

Simple ingredients come together to create cottage cheese bagels that feel homemade without the usual effort.

Texture stays soft inside with a lightly crisp exterior, making them a reliable choice for many meals or snacks.

Try different toppings or fillings to keep things interesting and make each batch your own. Give them a go and enjoy a fresh, easy alternative to store-bought bagels.