Cottage Cheese Bagels aren’t just a trending recipe—they’re a reflection of everything we believe in here at Melting Kitchen. I’m Emily, the mom and home cook behind this little corner of the internet, and these bagels represent exactly why I started this blog in the first place: to bring you real food that fits real life.
This cottage cheese bagels recipe was born during one of those classic chaotic mornings—the kind with spilled milk, mismatched socks, and kids yelling, “Mom, I’m starving!” We needed something fast, filling, and healthy. I’d seen versions of the popular two-ingredient Greek yogurt bagels before, but I had a container of cottage cheese sitting in the fridge begging to be used.why not try making cottage cheese bagels instead?
I tossed the cottage cheese in a blender to smooth it out, mixed it with self-rising flour, and before I knew it, we had a dough for cottage cheese bagels. Easy peasy. My kids helped shape the for cottage cheese bagels (because honestly, it’s like edible Play-Doh), and within 30 minutes, we were pulling golden, protein-packed bagels from the oven. They were chewy, flavorful, and felt like a breakfast win—no perfection required.
That’s the kind of cooking I believe in. Food that makes you feel good, not guilty. Recipes you can make with kids underfoot, homework spread out on the kitchen table, and laundry buzzing in the background. Melting Kitchen is about support, not pressure—and this cottage cheese bagels recipe fits perfectly into that mission.
Don’t miss our Cottage Cheese Egg Bites if you love easy, protein-rich breakfasts the whole family can enjoy.
So if you’re craving something nourishing, simple, and joyfully homemade, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the story behind these cottage cheese bagels and see why they’ve become one of the most loved recipes in my kitchen.
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30-Minute Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe
- Total Time: 30minutes mins
- Yield: 4 bagels 1x
Description
These cottage cheese bagels are soft, chewy, and packed with protein. Made with just two main ingredients and no yeast, they’re perfect for a quick and healthy homemade breakfast. Ready in under 30 minutes, this 5-step recipe is family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and totally foolproof.
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Full-fat cottage cheese, 2 % works too, strained
- 1 Cup Self-rising flour
- 1 egg, used as egg wash if using toppings
- Everything Bagel seasoning, Optional topping, sesame seeds, etc.
Instructions
- In a blender, add the 1 Cup Full-fat cottage cheese and blend until smooth.
- Transfer the cottage cheese to a large mixing bowl and add the 1 Cup Self-rising flour.
- Mix the flour and blended cottage cheese with your hands or spatula until well combined. The dough may be a bit sticky. Add 1-2 tablespoons of flour if needed to be able to handle the dough.
- Transfer onto a lightly floured flat surface and knead a few times until you are able to form a ball. You may use 1-2 tablespoons of flour if needed to handle the dough.
- Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Form a ball, create a hole in each one using your finger, and gently pull It apart to form a bagel shape.
Brush some egg wash (from 1 egg) over each bagel and top with sesame seeds or Everything Bagel seasoning.
- Place the bagels onto the prepared sheet pan and bake for 25-28 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow the bagels to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy.
Notes
If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can use 1 cup of all-purpose flour mixed with 1½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt as a substitute.
Let the bagels cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. They’ll firm up as they rest and keep their soft, fluffy texture.
This recipe works well with low-fat cottage cheese (2% or 4%) and small curd varieties. Just be sure to strain out any excess liquid before blending to avoid a wet dough.
- Prep Time: 5mins
- Cook Time: 25mins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Oven
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
- Calories: 180kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 182mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Table of Contents
Why Cottage Cheese Bagels Are Trending
The Rise of Cottage Cheese in Healthy Recipes
In the last year, cottage cheese has made a serious comeback. Once seen as a bland diet food, it’s now praised for being a versatile, high-protein ingredient used in everything from pancakes to ice cream. Social media has played a big role in this revival, with viral videos showing innovative ways to use cottage cheese bagels being one of the most buzz-worthy.
Not only is cottage cheese creamy and packed with protein, but it also blends smoothly when whipped, making it a perfect substitute for yogurt or cream cheese in baking recipes. This versatility is a key reason why health-conscious home cooks are swapping it into traditional baked goods.
Why Bagels Are Getting a High-Protein Makeover
Traditional bagels are delicious—but they’re also often loaded with refined carbs and lacking in protein. As more people prioritize protein for weight management, muscle building, and satiety, there’s been a demand for healthier baked goods.
That’s where cottage cheese bagels come in. By replacing the traditional base with blended cottage cheese and self-rising flour, you get a chewy, satisfying bagel that’s rich in protein and way lower in calories than your store-bought kind. These bagels are also easier to make than you think, no boiling needed!
Influencers like Bethenny Frankel helped push this trend forward by sharing easy, quick recipes that take under 30 minutes—making them perfect for busy families, meal preppers, and anyone wanting a cleaner breakfast option.
What Are Cottage Cheese Bagels?
Understanding the Basic Ingredients
cottage cheese bagels offer a protein-packed spin on the classic breakfast staple. Instead of relying on yeast, multiple proofing steps, or boiling, this simplified recipe uses just a handful of ingredients to create fluffy, chewy bagels with a light golden crust.
The core of this cottage cheese bagels recipe includes blended full-fat cottage cheese and self-rising flour. That’s it. The cottage cheese provides moisture and richness, while the flour delivers structure and rise. When mixed together, they form a soft dough that’s easy to handle and even easier to bake. You can finish them off with an optional egg wash and your favorite toppings like everything seasoning or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
This recipe removes the intimidation factor from bagel-making. No kneading for 10 minutes. No proofing in a warm oven. Just mix, shape, and bake. It’s approachable enough for beginners but satisfying enough for experienced bakers.
Cottage Cheese vs Greek Yogurt in Bagel Recipes
If you’ve tried the internet-famous two-ingredient bagels made with Greek yogurt, you already know how simple and effective that method can be. Cottage cheese bagels follow a similar concept, but with a slightly different outcome.
Blended cottage cheese delivers a creamier consistency and a gentler taste than Greek yogurt.. While Greek yogurt lends a bit of tang to baked goods, cottage cheese gives a softer, more neutral taste that lets toppings and mix-ins shine. It also tends to produce a slightly more tender crumb due to its higher moisture content.
For anyone who doesn’t love the tang of yogurt or simply wants to try something new, cottage cheese is a fantastic alternative. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak extra protein into your morning routine.
How It Compares to Regular Bagels in Taste and Texture
Traditional bagels have a dense, chewy texture that comes from a two-step process involving boiling and then baking. This gives them that iconic shiny crust and chewy bite. Cottage cheese bagels skip the boiling step, so the result is more of a cross between a bagel and a soft roll.
They’re lighter, a little softer, and not quite as dense as their classic counterparts. That said, they still hold their shape beautifully and toast up wonderfully. You can slice them, top them with cream cheese, avocado, eggs, or enjoy them plain right out of the oven.
What they lack in authenticity, they make up for in simplicity. And for busy families or beginner bakers, that’s often the better trade-off.
Looking for inspiration? Try our protein-packed Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust for another easy and satisfying meal idea.
Health Benefits of Cottage Cheese Bagels
Protein Content and Satiety
One of the biggest reasons cottage cheese bagels are gaining popularity is their impressive protein profile. Traditional store-bought bagels tend to be carb-heavy and lacking in the nutrients that help keep you full. By using cottage cheese as a base, cottage cheese bagels offer a smart alternative for people looking to increase their protein intake without making a huge change to their breakfast routine.
Each homemade cottage cheese bagel contains about 11 grams of protein, making it a smart choice for breakfast or a post-workout snack. Protein helps you feel full longer, supports muscle recovery, and helps balance blood sugar levels throughout the day. For busy mornings or growing kids, this added protein can make all the difference in keeping energy levels up until the next meal.
Low Fat, High Nutrition: Is It Really Healthy?
Cottage cheese brings more than just protein to the table. It’s a great source of calcium, vitamin B12, and phosphorus. When blended and baked into a bagel, these nutrients are preserved, making the Cottage Cheese Bagels recipe a wholesome option to start your day.
Using self-rising flour keeps the recipe simple and still adds a modest amount of carbohydrates for energy. And since the recipe only includes a few clean ingredients, it avoids the additives and preservatives found in many packaged bagels.
The optional egg wash adds a touch of color and a small protein boost, especially when paired with toppings like sesame or everything bagel seasoning. You can even make them without the egg if you’re looking for a vegetarian or egg-free version.
Is There Anything Unhealthy About Cottage Cheese?
Cottage cheese is generally considered a healthy food, especially when consumed in moderation. That said, there are a few things to keep in mind depending on your dietary needs.
Some store-bought varieties can be high in sodium. If you’re watching your salt intake, look for low-sodium versions or strain the cottage cheese before blending to reduce moisture and excess salt.
It’s also a dairy product, so those who are lactose intolerant may experience digestive discomfort. In that case, a lactose-free cottage cheese or another dairy-free alternative could be used to make cottage cheese bagels, though results may vary in texture.
Overall, cottage cheese bagels offer a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and flavor without the guilt. They’re satisfying, simple to prepare, and way more nutritious than most bakery or grocery store options.
Don’t miss our family-favorite Cottage Cheese Egg Bites if you’re looking for another low-carb, protein-rich breakfast option that works great for meal prep.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Bagels Step-by-Step
Required Ingredients and Preparation
Making cottage cheese bagels at home is incredibly simple and requires just a few staple ingredients. You probably already have them in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need for a basic batch of four bagels:
- 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese (2% works too)
- 1 cup self-rising flour
- 1 egg (for optional egg wash)
- Optional toppings: everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds
Before you start, preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup. Make sure to strain your cottage cheese slightly if it’s too watery, then blend it until smooth. This gives you a texture similar to Greek yogurt, which helps the dough form properly.
Blending and Kneading Tips for Perfect Dough
Start by adding your cottage cheese to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Once that’s ready, transfer it into a large mixing bowl and add the self-rising flour.
Mix the two together using a spatula or your hands. It will be sticky at first, which is totally normal. If the dough feels too wet to handle, sprinkle in 1 to 2 tablespoons of flour until you can form a manageable dough ball.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times, just until smooth. This doesn’t require much effort or precision. Once the dough comes together, divide it into four equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a ball, then use your finger to poke a hole in the center and gently stretch it into a bagel shape. If you prefer a more uniform look, you can roll the dough into a log and connect the ends to form the circle.
Customizing Your Cottage Cheese Bagels
Topping Ideas for Every Taste
One of the best things about cottage cheese bagels is how easy they are to personalize. Once you’ve shaped your dough, you can top them with a variety of flavors depending on what you’re in the mood for.
Here are some tasty options:
- Everything Bagel Seasoning – a flavorful mix of sesame seeds, dried onion, garlic, and salt.
- Sesame Seeds or Poppy Seeds – simple and classic
- Flaky Sea Salt – adds crunch and a hint of saltiness
- Grated Cheese – sprinkle cheddar or parmesan on top before baking
- Cinnamon Sugar – for a sweet version, brush with egg, then add a cinnamon-sugar mix
These toppings should be added right after brushing the dough with egg wash so they stick well and bake into the crust.
Sweet or Savory Flavor Twists
You can also mix flavors directly into the dough to give each batch a different spin. Try these easy variations:
- Savory mix-ins: chopped chives, garlic powder, shredded cheese, and dried herbs.
- Sweet add-ins: a spoonful of honey, cinnamon, mini chocolate chips, or dried fruit
Keep in mind that if you add wet ingredients or cheese to the dough, you may need a bit more flour to balance the moisture.
Allergy-Friendly and Diet Modifications
These bagels are naturally nut-free and high in protein, but you can easily adjust them for other dietary needs:
- Dairy-free: Use a plant-based cottage cheese alternative
- Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free self-rising flour or substitute with gluten-free flour plus baking powder.
- Egg-free: Skip the egg wash altogether. The bagels will still bake fine, just without the shiny golden top
These simple adjustments make the recipe flexible for nearly any household.
Looking for inspiration? Try our creative Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse for a fun, high-protein treat that’s just as easy to customize as these bagels.
Storing and Reheating Cottage Cheese Bagels
Keeping Them Fresh
After baking, let your cottage cheese bagels cool completely. For short-term storage, keep them in an airtight container or ziplock bag at room temperature for up to 1 day. After that, move them to the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for about 5 days.
Freezing and Reheating
To freeze, wrap each cooled bagel and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave briefly.
For best texture, slice and toast the bagel or warm it in the oven at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes. They reheat well without losing their soft inside or golden crust.
Looking for another easy, make-ahead recipe? Try our Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust for a delicious dinner idea.
Nutrition Breakdown and Calorie Count
How Many Calories Are in a Cottage Cheese Bagel?
One homemade cottage cheese bagel contains roughly 180 calories, depending on the brand of ingredients used and whether you add toppings. This makes them a lighter option compared to store-bought bagels, which often range from 250 to 350 calories each.
Here’s the approximate nutrition per bagel:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Protein | 11 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 182 mg |
| Calcium | 54 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
These bagels offer a solid balance of macros, especially if you’re looking for a higher protein start to your day without sacrificing flavor.
Carbs, Protein, Fat: What It All Means
Cottage cheese bagels are a great choice if you’re trying to increase protein while keeping calories and carbs moderate. Each one has over 10 grams of protein, which can help with energy and satiety. They also contain fewer refined carbs than many store-bought options.
The fat content is modest, especially if you use 2% cottage cheese. You can even go lower by using low-fat cottage cheese, though the texture might be slightly drier.
These bagels also have a small amount of fiber and natural sugar, mostly from the flour. They’re not low-carb or keto, but they’re certainly a healthier choice for everyday meals.
Ideal for Weight Loss or Muscle Gain?
Yes, cottage cheese bagels can fit into both goals. The high protein content supports muscle repair and can keep you feeling full longer, which helps reduce snacking. For weight loss, they’re a satisfying swap for more calorie-dense breads.
If you’re building muscle, pair your bagel with eggs, avocado, or turkey for an easy post-workout meal. If weight loss is your focus, enjoy one with a lighter topping like hummus, cottage cheese spread, or plain.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Sticky or Dense Dough
If your dough is too sticky, it likely needs a little more flour. Start by adding a tablespoon at a time until it’s easier to handle. Overmixing can also make your bagels dense, so mix only until the dough comes together.
Flour Type Counts
Use self-rising flour for best results. If you substitute with all-purpose flour, remember to add baking powder and a pinch of salt to help the dough rise properly.
Egg Wash and Toppings
Egg wash helps give your bagels a golden finish, but it’s optional. Add toppings like sesame or everything seasoning right after brushing to make sure they stick.
Want another easy win in the kitchen? Try our Cottage Cheese Egg Bites for a quick, high-protein breakfast.
Conclusion: Why Cottage Cheese Bagels Belong in Your Kitchen
Cottage cheese bagels are more than a viral recipe—they’re a smart, simple solution for everyday meals. With just two main ingredients, no complicated steps, and a flexible flavor profile, they fit perfectly into busy routines, family-friendly menus, and protein-packed diets.
Whether you’re baking with your kids, prepping breakfast for the week, or trying to eat healthier without sacrificing taste, this recipe checks every box. From soft texture to golden tops, these bagels deliver big results with very little effort.
They also store well, reheat beautifully, and can be customized with toppings or flavors to suit your mood. Best of all, each bagel offers around 180 calories and 11 grams of protein, making it a satisfying choice that fuels your day.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse for a sweet, high-protein treat that pairs perfectly with your fresh-baked bagels.
So next time you’re craving something homemade, healthy, and genuinely easy, remember this recipe. Cottage cheese bagels aren’t just good—they might just become your go-to breakfast.
Love easy, high-protein recipes like these cottage cheese bagels? Follow Melting Kitchen on Facebook and Pinterest for daily cooking inspiration, family-friendly meal ideas, and new recipe updates straight from my kitchen to yours!
FAQ About Cottage Cheese Bagels
Is cottage cheese good for bagels?
Yes, cottage cheese is a great choice. It adds protein, moisture, and a soft texture to the dough. When blended, it works like yogurt or sour cream in baking, helping to keep the bagels tender without making them heavy.
How do you make Bethenny Frankel’s viral cottage cheese bagel?
Her version is simple—blend cottage cheese until smooth, mix with self-rising flour, shape the dough, and bake. It’s the same easy approach covered in this guide, perfect for busy mornings or quick snacks.
How many calories are in a cottage cheese bagel?
Each one has about 180 calories, with 11 grams of protein and 25 grams of carbs. That makes them a lighter, more balanced option than store-bought bagels, which often contain 250+ calories and fewer nutrients.
Is there anything unhealthy about cottage cheese?
Cottage cheese is generally healthy, but some brands can be high in sodium. If you’re watching your salt intake, choose low-sodium options. Also, since it’s dairy, it may not work for those with lactose intolerance.
Can kids make this recipe too?
Absolutely. The dough is easy to mix and shape, making it a fun and safe recipe for kids to help with. No sharp tools or boiling water involved—just simple hands-on steps.
Are cottage cheese bagels gluten-free?
Not by default, since self-rising flour contains wheat. To make them gluten-free, use a gluten-free self-rising blend or mix gluten-free flour with baking powder and salt. The texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still taste great.
