Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese

Name: Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups bread flour; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/4 cup water; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 3 teaspoons baking powder; 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Easy Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love starting my mornings with these Protein Bagels with Cottage Cheese! They not only provide a deliciously chewy texture but are also packed with protein to keep me energized throughout the day. Making these bagels from scratch has become a joyful routine that fills my kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. I find that they work wonderfully as a base for toppings, whether savory or sweet, making them a versatile addition to my breakfast or snack options.

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:37:36.073Z

When I first tried making protein bagels with cottage cheese, I was amazed by how simple yet rewarding the process was. The dough comes together quickly, and the addition of cottage cheese infuses each bite with moisture and nutrition. I recommend letting the bagels rise slightly before baking, which enhances their texture and makes them airy.

Since then, I've experimented with various toppings—everything from classic cream cheese to avocado and smoked salmon. The high protein content keeps me full, and I've even shared them with friends who rave about their taste and health benefits!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
High in protein, perfect for athletes and active individuals
Deliciously chewy texture that satisfies every bite
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings

Why the Right Ingredients Matter

The star of these Protein Bagels is undoubtedly the cottage cheese. Not only does it provide a significant protein boost, but it also contributes to the bagels' unique chewy texture. When mixed with the bread flour, the moisture from the cottage cheese allows you to create a dough that's both pliable and easy to shape. Make sure to use a good-quality cottage cheese, as the creaminess directly affects the bagel's flavor and mouthfeel.

Bread flour is preferred over all-purpose flour in this recipe due to its higher protein content, which helps develop gluten and gives the bagels their structure. If you’re in a pinch, you can use all-purpose flour, but your bagels may turn out a bit denser. Always measure your flour accurately, as too much can lead to dry dough, which won’t rise properly during boiling.

Techniques for Perfect Bagels

When shaping the bagels, be gentle yet deliberate. After forming the initial ball, smoothly stretch the center hole without tearing the dough. If you notice any cracks forming, a little extra shaping will help. The size of the hole matters; it should be around two inches in diameter as the bagels will puff up during boiling and baking. If left too small, they might close up completely, resulting in less-than-ideal bagels.

Boiling the bagels before baking is a crucial step that sets this recipe apart from regular bread-making. The boiling process gelatinizes the surface starches, creating a chewy crust once baked. Keep an eye on the clock; cooking them for exactly 1-2 minutes on each side is essential to achieving that optimal texture. If you're experimenting with different flavors or toppings, remember to boil them first for the best results.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your protein-packed bagels:

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups bread flour
1 cup cottage cheese
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
3 teaspoons baking powder
1 egg (for egg wash)

Your ingredients are all set—let's get started!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious protein bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the bread flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Add the cottage cheese and water. Stir until a dough forms, then knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your finger to form a bagel shape. Gently stretch the hole to about 2 inches in diameter.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop the bagels into the boiling water, cooking for 1-2 minutes on each side. Remove with a slotted spoon and let drain.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the boiled bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a glossy finish, then bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let the bagels cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite spreads or toppings and revel in the protein-packed goodness!

Your freshly baked protein bagels are ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in herbs or spices into the dough, such as garlic powder or sesame seeds on top before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Protein Bagels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply let the bagels cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer; just thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

If you want to enjoy them fresh-baked throughout the week, you can pre-shape the dough into bagels and refrigerate. Allow them to rest in the fridge for up to overnight before boiling and baking. This method adds more flavor as the dough rises slowly, enhancing the overall texture.

Serving and Topping Suggestions

The beauty of these bagels lies in their versatility. You can customize them based on your cravings or dietary preferences. For savory toppings, consider cream cheese with fresh herbs, avocado slices, or even smoked salmon. If you're in the mood for something sweet, a little ricotta cheese topped with honey and berries makes a perfect breakfast or snack.

For a unique twist, try adding herbs or spices directly to the dough, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or everything bagel seasoning. This not only enhances the bagels' flavor but also makes them even more fun to serve at brunch or gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Yes! Once cooled, place the bagels in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Absolutely! Whole wheat flour can be substituted, but you may need to adjust the amount of water slightly.

→ What is the best way to reheat the bagels?

Toast them in a toaster or reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to enjoy their fresh baked texture.

→ How can I add flavor to the bagels?

Consider adding onion flakes, poppy seeds, or even spices directly to the dough for extra flavor!