Savory Cottage Cheese Bagels

Name: Savory Cottage Cheese Bagels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour; 1 cup of cottage cheese; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons of baking powder; 1 teaspoon of garlic powder; 1 teaspoon of dried chives; 1 teaspoon of salt; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; Sesame seeds; Poppy seeds; Additional chives, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love starting my day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast, and these Savory Cottage Cheese Bagels have quickly become my favorite. Made with protein-packed cottage cheese and a blend of flavorful herbs, they offer a satisfying bite that fuels my morning. I like to mix in garlic and chives for a delightful twist, and the texture is simply satisfying. Whether toasted or fresh out of the oven, these bagels are perfect for a busy morning or a leisurely brunch with friends.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:52:23.591Z

When I first experimented with these Savory Cottage Cheese Bagels, I was amazed at how easily they came together. The natural creaminess of the cottage cheese creates a perfect dough that doesn't require any complicated kneading. I found that letting the bagels rest for a few minutes before baking enhances their texture, giving them a lovely crust while remaining soft on the inside.

One of my favorite aspects is the ability to customize the flavors. By adding different herbs or spices, I can change the profile completely, from Italian to Mediterranean style. It makes each batch a new experience, and I’ve enjoyed pairing them with different toppings like smoked salmon or fresh vegetables.

        Why You'll Love These Bagels
        Protein-packed goodness that keeps you full
Versatile flavors to suit any palate
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy mornings

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is the star of these bagels, providing moisture and a rich source of protein that helps keep you feeling satisfied throughout the morning. Its creamy texture contributes to the bagels' softness, which contrasts beautifully with the satisfying chew of the dough. Using a full-fat or ricotta variety can enhance creaminess, while low-fat options can be employed for a lighter version. Just ensure the cottage cheese is well-drained for the best results, as excess moisture can lead to a dough that is too sticky to shape.

In this recipe, the cottage cheese also plays a crucial role in binding the ingredients together, acting as an alternative to traditional yeast. This not only simplifies the process but also eliminates the need for rising time. Baking powder gives the bagels their lift, while the cottage cheese maintains their moist texture. The result is a delicious bagel that’s ready to bake in under an hour!

Perfecting the Bagel Shape

Achieving the perfect bagel shape is critical for both appearance and texture. When dividing the dough, aim for equal segments to ensure uniform baking. Rolling each piece into a rope about 1/2-inch thick may take a little practice; the key is to keep a consistent tension throughout the dough. Join the ends carefully to avoid gaps that may result in misshapen bagels in the oven. If you find your dough sticks too much, lightly flour your hands or the work surface to assist in shaping.

Don’t forget to create a hole large enough in the center, as they will puff up during baking. It’s common for home bakers to underestimate this, leading to bagels with small holes. A well-sized hole ensures that they maintain their shape while baking and enhances the texture by allowing for even cooking and crispy edges.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These Savory Cottage Cheese Bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be made ahead for convenience. Once completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a toaster or oven until warmed through, which takes around 5-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Serving these bagels is where you can get creative! They can be enjoyed plain, or topped with your favorite spreads, such as cream cheese or avocado. For a protein boost, consider adding smoked salmon or a poached egg. Adding fresh vegetables like tomatoes or cucumbers can enhance their freshness and provide a delightful crunch. Don’t shy away from experimenting with spices and toppings; herbs like dill or a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning can elevate the flavor profile further!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started on your bagels:

For the Bagels

2 cups of all-purpose flour
1 cup of cottage cheese
1 large egg
2 tablespoons of baking powder
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of dried chives
1 teaspoon of salt
1 tablespoon of olive oil

For Topping

Sesame seeds
Poppy seeds
Additional chives, chopped

These ingredients come together to make delicious bagels that you can enjoy in various ways!

Instructions

Here’s how to make these delicious bagels:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, chives, and salt. In another bowl, mix the cottage cheese, egg, and olive oil until smooth. Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry, mixing until a dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and join the ends to form a bagel shape. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Add Toppings

Brush the tops of the bagels with a little olive oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and extra chives.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bagels to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them warm or toasted with your favorite toppings!

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but can also be stored in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

For the best texture, ensure your cottage cheese is well-mashed, and feel free to experiment with different herbs to create your own signature bagel flavor.

Ingredient Variations

If you're curious about flavor modifications, there are several options you can explore. For a spicy kick, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or even finely chopped jalapeños into the dough. Alternatively, for a sweeter version, you might fold in some shredded cheese and serve it with honey or jam. Remember that adjustments in spices or herbs may influence the overall moisture, so keep an eye on the dough consistency.

For a gluten-free alternative, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix. However, this might require adding a bit more cottage cheese to achieve the same consistency, as gluten-free flours often absorb more liquid. Always check for a suitable baking blend that contains xanthan gum to help mimic the texture of traditional bagels.

Common Baking Mistakes

One common mistake is overmixing the dough. This can lead to dense bagels rather than the light and fluffy texture you're aiming for. Mix until just combined, and avoid incorporating too much air to keep the bagels tender. If you find that the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency for easy handling.

Another potential misstep is not preheating the oven adequately. Make sure your oven is fully preheated for at least 10-15 minutes before baking, as this ensures the bagels rise appropriately from the moment they enter the heat. Otherwise, you may end up with undercooked centers or bagels that don't achieve that lovely golden-brown color.

Enhancing Texture and Flavor

To boost the flavor and texture of your bagels, consider adding boiled and cooled chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes directly into the dough before shaping. This can provide a significant flavor enhancement while also adding nutritional benefits. When including additional ingredients, be cautious since too much moisture can affect the bagel's structure.

Brushing your bagels with a beaten egg before adding seeds not only provides a beautiful finish but also helps the toppings adhere better during baking. For a more assertive flavor profile, mix some herbs directly into the egg wash alongside your favorite seasoning to amplify the overall taste of the bagels.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well, but the texture may be slightly different.

→ How can I store leftover bagels?

Store the bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I serve with these bagels?

They pair wonderfully with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or fresh vegetables for a delightful breakfast or snack.