Cottage Cheese Bagels: High-Protein, Fluffy, and So Easy to Make


Quick Description

These Cottage Cheese Bagels are a game-changer for anyone who loves bagels but wants to stay on track with their health goals. Soft, chewy, and full of protein, they deliver all the satisfaction of traditional bagels with a lighter, cleaner nutritional profile. Whether you follow Keto, Weight Watchers, Slimming World, or the Mediterranean diet, these bagels fit seamlessly into your plan.

Perfect for breakfast, meal prep, or snack time, theyโ€™re made with simple ingredients you probably already have โ€” no fancy mixers or complicated steps needed!


Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 6 bagels
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Bake Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Difficulty: Easy

Calories per Serving

~150 kcal (varies by diet type)

Macros (Approx per Bagel):

  • Weight Watchers (WW):
    Protein: 10g | Carbs: 12g | Fat: 6g | Fiber: 2g | SmartPoints: 3
  • Keto:
    Protein: 10g | Carbs: 6g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 2g
  • Slimming World:
    Syns: 0โ€“2 (depending on cheese choice)
  • Mediterranean:
    Protein: 10g | Carbs: 10g | Fat: 7g | Fiber: 2g

Ingredients List

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 cup almond flour (for Keto) or whole wheat flour (for WW, Slimming, or Mediterranean)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ยผ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional โ€” for a slightly sweet bagel base)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven & Pan

Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, add cottage cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract (if using).
Whisk until well combined and smooth โ€” itโ€™s okay if there are a few small lumps from the cottage cheese.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together almond flour (or whole wheat flour), baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed.

Step 4: Make the Dough

Add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Stir with a spatula until a sticky dough forms. If the dough feels too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until itโ€™s soft but shapeable.

Step 5: Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each into a ball, then gently press your thumb through the center to create a hole. Shape each one into a ring (like a traditional bagel).

Step 6: Bake

Place the bagels on the prepared baking tray.
Bake for 14โ€“16 minutes, or until golden brown on top and slightly firm to the touch.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the bagels cool on a wire rack for 5โ€“10 minutes before slicing or topping.


Flavor & Topping Variations

  • Savory: Add garlic powder, onion flakes, or Everything Bagel seasoning to the dough before baking.
  • Sweet: Add 1 tablespoon of erythritol or a drizzle of honey, plus a sprinkle of cinnamon before baking.
  • Cheesy: Mix ยผ cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan into the dough for an extra cheesy twist.

Serving Suggestions

  • Breakfast Bagel: Slice and top with eggs, avocado, or smoked salmon.
  • Snack: Toast and spread with light cream cheese or nut butter.
  • Sandwich: Use as a bun replacement for burgers or chicken sandwiches.
  • Dessert: Try with sugar-free jam or Greek yogurt and berries.

Additional Notes

  • Texture Tip: For fluffier bagels, blend the cottage cheese before mixing it into the batter.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the toaster or oven before serving.

Dietary Info

โœ… High-Protein
โœ… Low-Carb Option (Keto)
โœ… WW & Slimming Friendly
โœ… Gluten-Free (when using almond flour)
โœ… Vegetarian


Nutrition (Per Serving โ€“ Average Across Diets)

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbs: 8โ€“12g
  • Fat: 6โ€“10g
  • Fiber: 2g

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes โ€” use dairy-free cottage cheese or blended silken tofu instead, though texture may vary slightly.

Q: How can I make the bagels crispier?
Brush the tops with a little olive oil or egg wash before baking and bake an extra 3โ€“5 minutes.

Q: Can I add mix-ins?
Absolutely! Add herbs, cheese, cinnamon, or seeds directly to the dough before shaping.


Optional Personal Story

I first made these Cottage Cheese Bagels on a Sunday meal prep morning, and they instantly became a staple in my kitchen. Theyโ€™re fluffy, filling, and surprisingly indulgent for such a simple recipe. Whether I top them with cream cheese or avocado, they hit the spot every time โ€” no carb guilt attached!


Call-to-Action

Bake a batch of these Cottage Cheese Bagels this week and see why theyโ€™re trending! Theyโ€™re quick, versatile, and so satisfying โ€” the perfect high-protein addition to your healthy eating routine.