Healthy Bagels with Cottage Cheese

Name: Healthy Bagels with Cottage Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/4 cup warm water; 1 egg (for egg wash); Sesame seeds; Poppy seeds; Everything bagel seasoning

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love whipping up these Healthy Bagels with Cottage Cheese for breakfast. It’s a delicious way to start my day, packed with protein and flavor. The recipe is straightforward, taking just about an hour from start to finish. Plus, I can customize the toppings for a little variety. These bagels are soft, chewy, and so satisfying, you won't even miss the store-bought versions. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to add them to your regular breakfast rotation!

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:49:10.256Z

When I first tried making bagels at home, I was surprised at how easy it was. I love using cottage cheese in the dough because it adds moisture and protein without weighing it down. The combination of ingredients creates a wonderful dough that’s easy to shape, ensuring my bagels come out perfectly round and chewy every time.

One key tip I learned is to let the bagels rest after shaping them, which helps to develop a nice texture. Also, you can experiment with different toppings, like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning, for an added flavor boost. These bagels are a game changer for my breakfast routine!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        High protein content from cottage cheese keeps you full longer
Deliciously chewy texture that's hard to resist
Quick to make, perfect for busy mornings
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings

      

Achieving the Perfect Texture

The key to those soft, chewy bagels lies in the balance of ingredients. The cottage cheese not only provides a protein boost but also contributes to the bagel's moisture and texture. Make sure to choose a full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese, as fat content affects the structure of the dough. If you find the dough too sticky, lightly flour your hands and the work surface while kneading. Aim for a smooth consistency that springs back when pressed, indicating it's ready for shaping.

Kneading the dough is another critical step; it develops the gluten, which gives bagels their characteristic chew. If you notice the dough isn’t coming together well, adding a tablespoon of additional flour at a time can help, but be cautious not to overdo it, as too much flour can lead to dry bagels. Knead for about five minutes until the dough is elastic and holds its shape.

Customizing Your Bagels

One of the best parts of making these bagels is the opportunity for customization. You can mix in herbs or spices directly into the dough, such as minced garlic or chopped chives, for extra flavor right from the start. Consider using whole-wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a nuttier taste and a health boost—just be aware that it may slightly alter the texture and rise.

When it comes to toppings, go wild! I often use a blend of sesame seeds and poppy seeds for a classic touch, but for a gourmet twist, everything bagel seasoning gives an irresistible crunch and flavor. Feel free to get creative; just remember to sprinkle the toppings generously before baking to ensure they adhere well to the bagels.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup cottage cheese
1/4 cup warm water
1 egg (for egg wash)

Toppings (Optional)

Sesame seeds
Poppy seeds
Everything bagel seasoning

Mix all ingredients in a bowl and let the dough rest while you preheat the oven.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, baking powder, and cottage cheese. Gradually add warm water until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it's smooth and elastic.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and shape it into a circle, pinching the ends together.

Prepare for Baking

Place the shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg (optional) and sprinkle with your choice of toppings.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven, let cool on a wire rack, and enjoy toasted with your favorite spread!

Enjoy your healthy bagels as a delicious breakfast option!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor. You can also substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a healthier version.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but you can prepare the dough a day in advance. After kneading, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This resting period will enhance the flavors as they meld together. When you're ready to bake, simply bring the dough back to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping.

For leftovers, allow the bagels to cool completely before storing them in a zip-top bag or airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the bagels after they’ve cooled. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months this way. To reheat, pop them in a toaster or an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you notice your bagels aren’t rising as expected, it might be due to the yeast inactivity or incorrect baking temperature. Always check the expiration date on your baking powder, as stale leavening agents can prevent optimal rising. Additionally, ensure your oven is calibrated correctly, as an overly hot or cold oven can lead to undesired results.

For bagels that are too dense, it could be a sign of over-kneading or too much flour. Aim for the dough to feel just slightly tacky. If they come out too airy or crumbly, you may have under-kneaded the dough. The goal is a smooth texture that holds its shape without being overly dry. Don’t hesitate to practice until you find the right balance for your batch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for a healthier option.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer preservation.

→ Can I add flavors to the dough?

Absolutely! Experiment by adding garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs to the dough for added flavor.

→ What can I serve these bagels with?

They pair well with cream cheese, smoked salmon, avocado, or even just butter.