cottage cheese bagels

Cottage cheese bagels are a soft, chewy breakfast or snack option that feels wholesome and comforting. People love them for their light texture, mild tang, and satisfying bite. They’re easy to make at home for busy mornings, family brunches, or a cozy night in. I usually mix the cottage cheese into the dough until it’s smooth, which keeps the bagels tender and slightly fluffy. These bagels are perfect toasted or fresh, and the subtle flavor pairs wonderfully with sweet spreads, savory toppings, or just a simple pat of butter.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple, flexible, and yields bagels that are soft yet hold their shape. Using cottage cheese adds moisture and protein while keeping the dough light. The method is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require long fermentation, making it weeknight- or weekend-friendly. You can make a batch ahead and freeze some for later, ensuring a quick breakfast anytime. Cottage cheese bagels are budget-conscious, satisfying, and versatile—you can add seeds, herbs, or spices, or keep them plain for easy customization. They’re crowd-pleasing, cozy, and perfect for saving to your Pinterest collection for later baking inspiration.

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Ingredients

Tip: Use full-fat cottage cheese for a richer, creamier dough.

  • Cottage cheese – 1 cup
  • All-purpose flour – 2 cups
  • Baking powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Salt – ½ teaspoon
  • Egg – 1
  • Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
  • Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning
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Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Drain cottage cheese if very wet. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Mash cottage cheese slightly to remove lumps before adding to the dry ingredients.

See also  Cream Cheese Cookies

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Add egg and olive oil to the dry mixture. Stir to form a soft, slightly sticky dough. Knead gently on a floured surface until smooth. Dough should hold together but remain tender, not stiff or dry.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Divide dough into equal portions. Roll each into a ball and shape into a bagel by poking a hole in the center. Sprinkle optional toppings over the top and press gently to adhere.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Place bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown and firm to the touch. Cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite spread.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

The dough comes together quickly with minimal prep. Bagels bake in under 30 minutes and can be made in larger batches for freezing. Pre-sliced bagels thaw easily, making them convenient for breakfast, brunch, or a snack. This recipe works perfectly for Pinterest users who want fresh baked bread without long waits or complicated steps.

Tips & Tricks

  • Drain cottage cheese
    Too much moisture can make dough sticky. Drain or pat dry to maintain a firm but soft texture.
  • Use a light hand kneading
    Over-kneading can make bagels tough. Gently fold until smooth for a tender bite.
  • Shape evenly
    Consistent sizes ensure even baking. Press the center hole slightly wider as it shrinks during baking.
  • Add seeds at the right time
    Sprinkle toppings before baking, not after, so they stick well and toast lightly for extra flavor.
See also  Cottage Cheese Egg Bites

Variations

  • Meaty version
    Fold in finely chopped cooked bacon or ham bits into the dough for a savory breakfast twist. Press lightly so bits remain inside the bagel while baking.
  • Vegetarian option
    Keep plain or add grated vegetables like carrot or zucchini for subtle flavor and moisture. Great for a light snack or lunchbox option.
  • Ingredient swap
    Replace half the flour with whole wheat for a nuttier taste and slightly denser texture. Adjust baking time if dough feels heavier.
  • Flavor or herb boost
    Add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder to the dough. It enhances aroma and adds depth without extra toppings.

Serving Suggestions

  • Simple breakfast
    Serve toasted with butter, cream cheese, or fruit jam for a cozy morning.
  • Savory snack
    Top with avocado, tomato slices, or smoked cheese for a filling afternoon bite.
  • Brunch platter
    Pair with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, or yogurt for a Pinterest-worthy brunch spread.
  • Party appetizer
    Slice and serve with dips, spreads, or mini sandwiches for a casual gathering.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge storage
    Store cooled bagels in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keeps texture and flavor intact.
  • Reheating
    Toast or warm in the oven briefly to restore softness and slight crispiness.
  • Freezing
    Wrap individual bagels in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
  • Make-ahead tips
    Shape bagels in advance and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Bake fresh when ready for the best texture.

Recipe Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
  • Rest Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Calories: 150–180 per bagel
Protein: 8–10 grams
Key nutrients include protein from cottage cheese and moderate carbohydrates from flour. Values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

See also  Beer Cheese Dip

FAQs

Yes, shape dough and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.

Too much moisture in cottage cheese can make dough sticky and hard to shape.

Yes, but bagels may be slightly less tender.

Likely from overmixing or using too much flour.

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature or fridge for 2–3 days, freeze for longer.

Conclusion

Cottage cheese bagels are soft, chewy, and versatile, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack. They’re easy to make, adaptable with toppings, and convenient for busy mornings. Whether toasted with butter, topped with veggies, or served on a brunch platter, they’re a cozy, homemade treat worth saving to your Pinterest collection.

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cottage cheese bagels

Recipe by Tasty VaultCourse: Cheese Recipes
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cottage cheese

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 1 egg

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Drain cottage cheese. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Add egg and olive oil. Mix into a soft dough. Knead gently until smooth.
  • Divide dough into portions. Shape into bagels and add optional toppings.
  • Place on baking sheet and bake 20–25 minutes until golden. Cool slightly and serve.

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