3-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Bagels — Healthy, High-Protein, and Easy to Make!

These 3-ingredient cottage cheese bagels are about to become your new favorite snack or breakfast staple. Whether you bake them in the oven or cook them quickly in the air fryer, they’re a healthy, savory treat packed with protein and super simple to whip up anytime.

Why Cottage Cheese Bagels?

Cottage cheese has been gaining popularity for its high protein content and versatility. From cottage cheese pancakes to creamy dips, I love adding it to recipes. These bagels combine cottage cheese with self-rising flour for a dough that’s quick to mix and knead—no yeast or rising time needed!

What You’ll Need:

• Self-rising flour: Keeps the recipe simple, but you can swap in all-purpose flour with baking powder if needed.
• Full-fat cottage cheese: Blended smooth to give the bagels their moist texture and protein boost.
• Egg: Used as an egg wash to brush on top before baking for a golden crust.
• Toppings (optional): Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, shredded asiago cheese, poppy seeds — or get creative!

How to Make Them:

1. Blend the cottage cheese: Use a food processor or blender to puree the cottage cheese until smooth. This ensures a soft, even dough.
2. Mix and knead: Combine the blended cottage cheese with the flour. Knead on a floured surface until the dough pulls away from the sides and feels smooth but not sticky.
3. Shape the bagels: Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each into a rope and join the ends to form a classic bagel shape. Brush with egg wash and add your favorite toppings.
4. Bake or air fry: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden brown. Or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 12–14 minutes for a quicker option.

Tips & Variations:

• Flour swaps: Use whole wheat or gluten-free flour blends (with baking powder) to suit dietary needs.
• Freeze & reheat: Cool completely, then freeze the bagels sliced almost all the way through so you can toast from frozen anytime.
• Serving ideas: Spread cream cheese, top with smoked salmon, or turn into a hearty sandwich.

Storage:

Keep bagels fresh at room temperature in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Avoid refrigeration to prevent drying out. For longer storage, freeze immediately after cooling.

These cottage cheese bagels are a protein-packed, delicious way to upgrade your breakfast or snack game with minimal effort. Try making a batch today—you won’t regret it!