I still remember the first time I discovered a homemade bagel that was soft, chewy, and packed with protein. While experimenting in my kitchen, I combined cottage cheese with simple pantry staples and created a bagel that my family couldn’t stop eating. At Eminent Recipes, I love sharing practical, family-friendly meals that are quick, customizable, and perfect for busy mornings. This cottage cheese bagel is one of those recipes—healthy, versatile, and ready in minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re searching for a breakfast that’s quick, healthy, and endlessly customizable, this cottage cheese bagel is your answer. Soft, protein-packed, and easy to make, it’s perfect for family mornings, busy weekdays, or a light snack anytime. The recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have, making it approachable for all cooking levels. Whether you prefer savory toppings like cheddar and herbs or sweet ones like cinnamon and fruit, these cottage cheese bagels adapt to every taste. By choosing almond flour or keeping it classic with self-rising flour, you can make this recipe keto-friendly, low-carb, or gluten-free. From the first bite, you’ll notice how chewy and satisfying it is, yet lighter than traditional bagels. These bagels are ideal for meal prep, brunch gatherings, or just a comforting solo breakfast. Incorporating cottage cheese not only boosts protein but adds moisture and flavor, creating a soft interior that pairs beautifully with spreads or toppings. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s become a household favorite, combining convenience, nutrition, and versatility in one delicious bagel.
Ingredients for This Recipe
Cottage cheese bagels rely on minimal, wholesome ingredients, which makes them easy to prepare at home. The base combines cottage cheese for protein and moisture, with self-rising flour or almond flour to create a soft texture. Eggs help bind the dough, while a pinch of salt enhances flavor. Optional toppings like seeds, herbs, or cheese allow you to customize your bagels to sweet or savory preferences. These ingredients are simple, versatile, and easy to source, making this a stress-free recipe for any home cook.

🛒 Ingredients (makes 4 bagels):
For the Bagels:
1 cup cottage cheese (full fat or low-fat)
1 cup self-rising flour (or almond flour for gluten-free/keto version)
1 large egg
¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
Optional Toppings:
Everything bagel seasoning
Sesame seeds
Poppy seeds
Shredded cheddar or herbs
How to Make This Recipe
Making cottage cheese bagels is fast, straightforward, and satisfying. Start by combining cottage cheese, egg, and salt to form a protein-rich base. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms. Divide and shape the dough into bagels, then add your favorite toppings for extra flavor and texture. Baking them at 400°F creates a golden, chewy exterior while keeping the inside soft. These bagels are versatile: try almond flour for a keto-friendly version or self-rising flour for a classic option. They’re perfect for family breakfasts, meal prep, or a quick snack.
🛒 Steps:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix cottage cheese, egg, and salt until smooth.
- Gradually add self-rising flour (or almond flour) until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Divide dough into 4 portions, shape into bagels, and poke a hole in the center.
- Place on baking sheet and add toppings like seeds or shredded cheese.
- Bake 20–25 minutes until lightly golden and firm.
- Cool slightly before serving and enjoy warm or toasted.

Expert Cooking Tips
Perfecting cottage cheese bagels is simple when you know a few tricks. Use full-fat cottage cheese for extra moisture and a soft interior, or almond flour for a gluten-free, low-carb option. Don’t overmix the dough—slightly sticky dough creates a chewy texture. Press holes in the center gently; they may shrink slightly during baking. Experiment with toppings like herbs, seeds, or cheese for flavor variety. Baking at a consistent 400°F ensures golden bagels without drying them out. Store in an airtight container or freeze for later.
💡 Expert Tips:
- Full-fat cottage cheese gives a soft, rich texture.
- Almond flour keeps it keto and gluten-free.
- Slightly sticky dough = chewy bagels.
- Gently shape bagels; holes shrink slightly while baking.
- Experiment with toppings: seeds, cheddar, or herbs.
- Bake at 400°F for golden bagels.
- Store in airtight container or freeze for up to 2 weeks.

FAQs
Can I make cottage cheese bagels without flour?
Yes, use almond flour for a gluten-free, low-carb version.
How many calories are in a cottage cheese bagel?
Calories range from 150–250 depending on flour type and toppings.
Can I make 3-ingredient cottage cheese bagels?
Yes! Combine cottage cheese, flour, and egg for a quick, easy recipe.
What are the best toppings for cottage cheese bagels?
Try sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning, cheddar, or herbs for flavor.
Are cottage cheese bagels healthy?
They are higher in protein and lower in carbs compared to traditional bagels, ideal for balanced breakfasts.
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Cottage Cheese Bagel Recipe – Soft, Chewy & Healthy
This cottage cheese bagel recipe proves that healthy breakfasts can be quick, easy, and delicious. Packed with protein, customizable with toppings, and suitable for various dietary needs, these bagels are perfect for busy mornings or family gatherings. By keeping ingredients simple and preparation straightforward, anyone can enjoy soft, chewy bagels at home. Whether you serve them warm with cream cheese, avocado, or smoked salmon, this recipe will quickly become a breakfast staple that’s both satisfying and versatile.
Print
Cottage Cheese Bagel
- Total Time: ~35 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A soft, protein-packed bagel made with cottage cheese and flour alternatives for a quick and healthy breakfast or snack. These bagels are low-carb, easy to make, and can be customized with sweet or savory toppings like seeds, herbs, or cheese.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (makes 4 bagels):
For the Bagels:
1 cup cottage cheese (full fat or low-fat)
1 cup self-rising flour (or almond flour for gluten-free/keto version)
1 large egg
¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
Optional Toppings:
Everything bagel seasoning
Sesame seeds
Poppy seeds
Shredded cheddar or herbs
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Dough
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese, egg, and salt. Mix well.
Gradually add self-rising flour (or almond flour) until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
Step 2: Shape Bagels
Divide dough into 4 equal portions.
Roll each portion into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your finger to form a bagel shape.
Place on the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with your chosen toppings.
Step 3: Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the bagels are lightly golden and firm to touch.
Cool slightly before slicing.
Notes
- Low-Carb/Keto Option: Use almond flour instead of self-rising flour.
- Cheese Flavor: Mix in shredded cheddar or herbs directly into dough for extra flavor.
- Serving: Best served warm with cream cheese, avocado, or smoked salmon.
- Make Ahead: Store baked bagels in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast / Snack
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
