There’s something downright comforting about a warm, chewy bagel first thing in the morning. But when I started looking for breakfast ideas that wouldn’t leave me crashing by 10 a.m., I stumbled across something unexpected—cottage cheese bagels. At first, I didn’t quite believe it. Cottage cheese? In a bagel?
But one weekend, curiosity won. I whipped out the blender, scooped some full-fat cottage cheese, and got to work. What came out of the oven 30 minutes later completely surprised me. These weren’t just decent—they were fluffy, golden, and satisfying. And guess what? No yeast, no rise time, and no boiling water in sight. Cottage cheese bagels had officially entered my breakfast rotation.
What I love most is how forgiving this recipe is. Even if you’ve never made a dough in your life, these bagels come together in one bowl. Mix, shape, bake—done. You don’t need fancy tools or baking skills. They’re the kind of recipe that feels like a win, especially when mornings are rushed and you still want something warm and homemade.
The cottage cheese not only adds a creamy texture—it also brings a solid hit of protein. That means these bagels won’t leave you starving an hour later. They keep well, toast like a dream, and go with everything from butter to smashed avocado. You can even slice them and build a full-on sandwich for lunch. One of my favorites? A toasted cottage cheese bagel topped with cream cheese and smoked salmon. It’s pure comfort food, made healthier.
Table of Contents
Ingredients & Kitchen Prep
When it comes to making cottage cheese bagels, the real beauty lies in how simple the ingredients are. You likely have most of these items already sitting in your kitchen. No need for yeast, special flours, or even a stand mixer. Everything comes together in one bowl with just a bit of mixing.
Here’s what you’ll need to make four fluffy, golden cottage cheese bagels that are high in protein and full of flavor.
Easy Ingredient List
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Full-fat cottage cheese (blended) | 1 ¼ cups |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Pinch of salt | To taste |
| Egg (for brushing) | 1, whisked |
| Toppings (e.g., everything bagel seasoning) | Optional |
Ingredient Tips & Smart Swaps
- Cottage cheese: Full-fat works best for a creamy, rich texture. If you want a slightly tangier bite, you can use Greek yogurt instead.
- Flour: No self-rising flour? No problem. Just mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour with the baking powder and a pinch of salt.
- Egg wash: You can skip it, but that golden crust is worth the extra step.
- Seasonings: Everything bagel seasoning is a favorite, but sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even cinnamon sugar work beautifully.
Before we dive into the baking, make sure to drain any excess liquid from your cottage cheese if it seems watery. This helps avoid sticky dough. If your dough does get a little wet, don’t panic—just dust your hands with flour and keep going.
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Cottage Cheese Bagels: Easy, Protein-Packed, and Totally Delicious
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels 1x
Description
Soft, high-protein cottage cheese bagels made with just 5 ingredients—fluffy, easy, and perfect for breakfast.
Ingredients
1 ¼ cups full-fat cottage cheese (blended)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
Pinch of salt
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional: Everything but the bagel seasoning
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line baking sheet.
2. Blend cottage cheese until smooth.
3. Mix flour, baking powder, salt, and cottage cheese into a dough.
4. Divide into 4 portions, shape into bagels.
5. Brush with egg wash and top with seasoning.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
7. Cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
You can skip the egg wash for a simpler version.
Be sure to blend cottage cheese until smooth for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 4mg
Step-by-Step Instructions
If you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this is the part you’ll love. Making cottage cheese bagels from scratch sounds fancy, but it’s honestly easier than mixing pancake batter. You don’t need a bread machine or a dough hook—just your hands, a bowl, and a little enthusiasm. These steps will guide you through the process with zero stress.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your cottage cheese bagels won’t stick and cleanup stays easy.
Step 2: Blend the Cottage Cheese
Pop your full-fat cottage cheese into a blender or food processor. Blend until it’s smooth and creamy. This helps give your cottage cheese bagels that soft, bouncy interior without any curds showing up in the final bite.
Step 3: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Add your blended cottage cheese to the dry ingredients. Stir with a spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. If it’s sticky (and it probably will be), don’t worry—that’s normal for cottage cheese bagels. Just flour your hands a bit.
Step 4: Shape the Bagels
Divide the dough into four equal portions. Wet your hands if needed to keep the dough from sticking. Roll each portion into a ball, then poke your finger through the center and shape it into a ring. You now have the classic cottage cheese bagel shape.
Step 5: Add Toppings and Egg Wash
Place each shaped bagel on your prepared baking sheet. Beat one egg in a small bowl and brush it over the tops of the bagels. This gives that glossy, golden finish. Sprinkle your favorite toppings over each one. Everything seasoning is a top pick, but sesame or cinnamon sugar work too.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until your cottage cheese bagels are golden brown and firm to the touch. Let them cool slightly before slicing.
Bonus Tips:
- Slice your cottage cheese bagels before freezing so you can pop them straight into the toaster.
- For added protein, mix a scoop of unflavored protein powder into the flour.
Now that your bagels are warm, fluffy, and fresh from the oven, let’s look at how to store, serve, and remix them with fun toppings.
Serving, Storing & Creative Ideas
Freshly baked cottage cheese bagels are hard to beat, especially when they’re warm and smell like a bakery right in your kitchen. But let’s not stop at “just bagels.” These little protein-packed rings are incredibly versatile—ideal for quick breakfasts, hearty sandwiches, or even a mid-afternoon snack with a spread of almond butter and sliced banana.
What to Eat With Cottage Cheese Bagels
These bagels shine with both sweet and savory toppings. In the morning, I love mine toasted with whipped cream cheese and a drizzle of honey. For a more filling option, add sliced avocado, a pinch of chili flakes, and a fried egg.
You can also go all-in with a deli-style sandwich. Try piling on smoked salmon, capers, and red onion for a classic combo. Or stack turkey, sharp cheddar, and a swipe of Dijon mustard for a lunch you’ll crave again and again.
If you’re into flavor-packed breakfast ideas, check out these Cottage Cheese Banana Bread or my go-to microwave egg both pair beautifully with cottage cheese bagels for a protein-powered start.
How to Store and Freeze
Cottage cheese bagels keep well on the counter or in the freezer, which makes them perfect for meal prep.
- Room temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Fridge: Keep for up to 5 days, but toast them before eating for best texture.
- Freezer: Slice bagels in half before freezing. Place in a freezer-safe bag and pop straight into the toaster when you’re ready—no thawing needed.
Want to change things up? Try these easy ideas:
- Add cinnamon and raisins to the dough for a sweeter twist.
- Top with shredded asiago or cheddar before baking.
- Stir in garlic powder and herbs for a savory version.
The real fun with cottage cheese bagels is how flexible they are. Make a batch on Sunday, and you’ve got breakfast covered all week.
More Protein-Packed Recipes from My Kitchen
If you enjoyed baking these cottage cheese bagels, you’ll love the other protein-rich, fuss-free recipes waiting for you on UmmyRecipes. I’ve tested every one of them in my own kitchen, so you can count on flavor and ease.
Start with my cottage cheese pizza bowl—a low-carb comfort dish that brings all the cheesy satisfaction without the dough. It’s quick, filling, and perfect when you want pizza vibes on a busy weeknight. For a sweeter take on cottage cheese, try my cottage cheese banana bread. It’s moist, high in protein, and makes the perfect snack or light breakfast.
Need something quick and savory in the morning? You’ll love my microwave mayo omelet—a creamy, fluffy egg dish that’s ready in just minutes. It’s my go-to when time is tight but I still want something warm and satisfying.
And don’t forget about snacks! My dark chocolate hemp energy bites are rich, chewy, and naturally sweetened. They’re packed with plant protein and perfect for that 3 p.m. slump or a post-workout bite.
All these recipes pair wonderfully with cottage cheese bagels, giving you a variety of ways to enjoy high-protein meals throughout the day. From breakfast to snack time, you’re covered with tasty, no-stress options.
FAQs About Cottage Cheese Bagels
Is cottage cheese good for bagels?
Absolutely. Cottage cheese is not only good—it’s fantastic in bagels. It makes the dough soft and tender while adding a solid dose of protein. Unlike traditional bagels, cottage cheese bagels stay light and moist inside without needing extra fat. Plus, you won’t taste the cheese itself once baked. It’s subtle and lets the toppings shine.
Can you use cottage cheese instead of yogurt in bagels?
Yes, you can swap cottage cheese for Greek yogurt in most bagel recipes. You may need to blend the cottage cheese first to smooth it out. In fact, many people find that cottage cheese bagels come out softer and fluffier compared to yogurt-based ones. Just watch the moisture content—if your cottage cheese is very watery, drain it before mixing
How do you make Bethenny Frankel’s viral cottage cheese bagel?
Bethenny Frankel’s viral version of cottage cheese bagels typically includes blended cottage cheese, self-rising flour, and sometimes an egg. The dough is shaped into rings, brushed with egg wash, and baked until golden. What sets her version apart is its simplicity—you can make it in under 30 minutes with just a few basic ingredients. The texture is fluffy, and they toast beautifully the next day.
How many calories are in a cottage cheese bagel?
A typical cottage cheese bagel made from this recipe contains around 180 to 200 calories, depending on your toppings and exact ingredient brands. Each one packs about 10 to 12 grams of protein, making it a more balanced choice than traditional store-bought bagels, which often have more carbs and fewer nutrients.
Conclusion
Making your own cottage cheese bagels at home is one of those little kitchen wins that feels way bigger than it looks. You take a few simple ingredients, mix them in a bowl, shape them with your hands, and before you know it—warm, golden bagels are on the table. They’re fluffy, protein-packed, and ready to be topped with whatever you’re craving.
What I love most is how easy they are to fit into any kind of morning. Whether you’ve got five minutes or a full brunch spread planned, these bagels hold their own. And they freeze beautifully, so you’re always just a quick toast away from something homemade.
So if you’re on the hunt for a breakfast that’s fast, filling, and full of flavor, give cottage cheese bagels a try. They’ve become a regular in my kitchen, and I have a feeling they’ll find a home in yours too.
If you loved these cottage cheese bagels and enjoy real-life kitchen wins, come hang out with me beyond the blog! Follow me on Pinterest for new comforting recipes each week, and follow me on Medium where I share personal cooking stories, tips, and honest moments from my home kitchen.
