Protein Bagels Made With Cottage Cheese

Name: Protein Bagels Made With Cottage Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup whole wheat flour; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional); Sesame seeds for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Wholesome Ideas

I love starting my day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast, and these Protein Bagels made with cottage cheese have quickly become my go-to choice. The combination of creamy cottage cheese and hearty whole wheat flour creates a dough that is both satisfying and full of protein. It’s amazing how simple ingredients can come together to form such a delightful bagel, perfect for topping with avocado or a spreadable cheese. Plus, knowing that I’m fueling my mornings with a protein boost is an added bonus!

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:13:34.906Z

Making these bagels became a fun experiment in my kitchen, especially when I discovered how versatile the dough can be. After a few trials, I found that letting the dough rest a little before shaping improved the texture significantly. It makes for a chewier bagel that pairs well with various toppings!

This recipe is not only a hit for breakfast; I've served them for brunch gatherings, and they always get rave reviews. Trust me, once you've tried them fresh from the oven, you'll want to make a double batch!

        Why You'll Love These Bagels
        Packed with protein for a filling breakfast
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
A guilt-free indulgence that feels like a treat

      

The Importance of Cottage Cheese

Using cottage cheese in these bagels is not just about added protein; it also contributes to a wonderful moisture level. This moisture is crucial for creating a tender bagel that doesn’t dry out during baking. When combined with whole wheat flour, the cottage cheese helps achieve a chewy texture, especially if you avoid overworking the dough. Keep in mind that using low-fat cottage cheese will still yield delicious results while keeping the calorie count in check.

Cottage cheese is rich in casein protein, which digests slowly, helping you feel fuller for longer. This makes these bagels an excellent option for breakfast or a midday snack. If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating flavored cottage cheese to add a new layer of taste to your bagels, enhancing your breakfast experience with minimal effort.

Shaping the Bagels

Shaping the bagels is a critical step that influences their final texture and appearance. When rolling the dough into a ball, be sure to keep a consistent thickness; this helps them bake evenly. Creating the hole in the center is also vital; make it larger than you'd think, as it will shrink during baking. If you find your dough too sticky, use a bit of extra flour on your hands or the work surface to prevent sticking.

If you want to enhance the flavor further, consider boiling the shaped bagels briefly in water mixed with a tablespoon of baking soda before baking. This helps to create a chewy crust similar to traditional Montreal-style bagels, giving your homemade version an authentic flair.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your protein-packed bagels:

Bagel Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 large egg
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Sesame seeds for topping (optional)

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Protein Bagels:

Preheat the oven

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

Combine ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, whole wheat flour, egg, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Mix until a dough forms.

Shape the bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Shape each piece into a bagel by rolling it into a ball and then making a hole in the center.

Add toppings

Place the shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired.

Bake

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

Cool and enjoy

Allow the bagels to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Serve warm or keep them in an airtight container for later enjoyment.

Pro Tips

These bagels are great for meal prep. Make a batch and freeze them
they toast up beautifully from frozen!

Storage and Reheating Tips

These protein bagels can be stored in an airtight container for up to five days, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the week. To maintain their fresh taste, consider wrapping them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the bagels by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to eat the frozen bagels, simply remove one and let it thaw at room temperature. For a quick heat-up, slice the bagel in half and toast it until golden and warm. This method revives the chewy texture and enhances the overall flavor, making it feel freshly baked.

Creative Serving Ideas

These protein bagels are a blank canvas for your favorite toppings. For a nutritious twist, spread avocado and sprinkle with salt and pepper for a creamy, flavorful breakfast. You can also try adding sliced tomatoes and a sprinkle of feta for a Mediterranean flair. If you're in the mood for something sweeter, a dollop of Greek yogurt topped with honey and fresh berries transforms your bagel into a delicious dessert-like option.

Feel free to experiment with various cheese spreads or smoked salmon for an upscale brunch idea. You could even make a breakfast sandwich by adding a fried egg and some spinach, making these bagels a versatile dish that suits any time of day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works well, but it may slightly alter the texture.

→ How long do these bagels last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Can I add different spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs or spices to suit your taste.

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Yes, these bagels freeze beautifully. Just ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer bag.