Cottage Cheese Protein Bagels

Imagine biting into a warm, golden bagel with a soft, chewy texture and a surprising protein punch—all without the fuss of yeast or hours of waiting. These Cottage Cheese Protein Bagels are a game-changer for busy mornings, combining the creamy goodness of cottage cheese with self-rising flour to create a nutritious breakfast or snack in just 30 minutes. Whether you're fueling up before a workout or looking for a satisfying midday bite, these bagels deliver on both flavor and nutrition.

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The magic of these bagels lies in their simplicity. The cottage cheese not only boosts the protein content but also keeps the bagels incredibly moist and tender. When mixed with self-rising flour, it creates a dough that's easy to work with and doesn't require any special bread-making skills. The result is a bagel that rivals traditional versions in taste and texture, but comes together in a fraction of the time and with far more nutritional benefits.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240 g) cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
• 1½ cups (190 g) self-rising flour
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash, optional)
• 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, mix cottage cheese and self-rising flour until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for 1–2 minutes, just until smooth (do not over-knead).

Step 4: Shape the Bagels

Divide dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each into a rope, then form into a bagel shape and pinch ends to seal.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Place bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with desired toppings.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

If you don't have self-rising flour on hand, you can easily make your own by whisking together 1½ cups all-purpose flour, 2¼ tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt. Be careful not to over-knead the dough, as this can make the bagels tough—just knead until the dough comes together smoothly. For the best texture, use full-fat cottage cheese, but low-fat works well too if you're watching calories. The egg wash is optional but highly recommended for achieving that beautiful golden-brown finish and helping toppings adhere.

Varianten und Anpassungen

These bagels are wonderfully versatile. For a dairy-free version, substitute the cottage cheese with a plant-based high-protein yogurt, though texture may vary slightly. Add extra flavor by mixing chopped fresh herbs like chives, dill, or rosemary directly into the dough, or fold in shredded cheese such as cheddar or parmesan. You can also experiment with sweet versions by adding a touch of honey and cinnamon to the dough and topping with a simple glaze. Try different toppings like za'atar, flaky sea salt, dried onion, or even a cinnamon-sugar mixture for variety.

Serviervorschläge

These protein-packed bagels are delicious on their own or toasted until crispy. Serve them fresh with cream cheese, butter, or your favorite nut butter for a satisfying breakfast. They're also perfect sliced and topped with smoked salmon, avocado, and a poached egg for a complete protein-rich meal. For a lighter option, spread with hummus and top with cucumber and tomato slices. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 3 months and toast directly from frozen.

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These Cottage Cheese Protein Bagels prove that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just two main ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a breakfast staple that's not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Whether you enjoy them plain, loaded with toppings, or customized to your taste preferences, these bagels are sure to become a regular feature in your kitchen. Give them a try and discover how easy it is to make homemade bagels that truly work for your lifestyle.

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, both full-fat and low-fat cottage cheese work well and slightly affect the texture and richness.

→ Is yeast needed for these bagels?

No yeast is required; self-rising flour provides the necessary leavening, making the process quicker and simpler.

→ How do I make self-rising flour at home?

Combine all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt to create self-rising flour, ensuring proper rise without yeast.

→ What toppings can be added?

Common toppings include everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds, brushed on with an egg wash for color.

→ Can these bagels be frozen?

Yes, they freeze well; thaw and lightly toast to enjoy freshly baked texture and flavor.