There’s something truly magical about biting into a homemade bagel that’s fluffy inside, satisfyingly chewy on the outside, and—surprise!—packed with extra protein thanks to a clever twist. Enter Cottage Cheese Bagels (Air Fryer or Oven!), the hero breakfast (or anytime snack) you never knew you needed. They’re delightfully simple to whip up, using just a couple of everyday ingredients, and come together in no time, whether you favor the speed of the air fryer or love the classic oven bake. Each bite is a celebration of golden crust, tender crumb, and an utterly addictive tang from the cottage cheese—truly a bagel lover’s dream, made healthier, easier, and more delicious than you’d ever expect.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of pantry staples to make these Cottage Cheese Bagels (Air Fryer or Oven!), but don’t let the simplicity fool you. Each ingredient has a mission—whether it’s providing structure, adding protein power, or delivering that iconic bagel flavor and beautiful crust.
- Cottage cheese: This is the star—blended smooth, it adds protein and a tender texture that keeps the bagels moist.
- Self-rising flour: A genius shortcut for lift and fluff, this flour combines the flour, baking powder, and salt you need all in one.
- Poppy seeds (optional): Sprinkle these on top for a subtle nuttiness and a touch of classic bagel crunch.
- Sesame seeds (optional): Add a mellow, toasted flavor for extra dimension.
- Everything bagel seasoning (optional): The ultimate mix of savory bits—garlic, onion, seeds, and salt—for maximum bagel shop vibes right at home.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Bagels (Air Fryer or Oven!)
Step 1: Blend the Cottage Cheese
Start with your cottage cheese—full fat, low fat, or even fat-free. Pop it into a blender or food processor and whirl away until it’s completely smooth, like yogurt. If your cottage cheese is on the thick side, a splash of water (one or two tablespoons) smooths it right out. This step makes sure your Cottage Cheese Bagels (Air Fryer or Oven!) bake up tender with no curdy surprises.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Pour the blended cottage cheese into a mixing bowl, add the self-rising flour, and mix briefly (a hand mixer with dough hooks works wonderfully, but your hands are absolutely up to the task too). You’re looking for a shaggy dough that just comes together—don’t overmix! Then, turn it out onto a floured surface, knead until smooth, form it into a ball, and cut into four equal portions. Keep unused dough covered with a towel to prevent drying while you shape each bagel.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten gently into disks about 3 inches wide. Use a small round cutter or the backside of a piping tip to cut out that iconic bagel hole. Don’t toss those holes—instead, roll the scraps together for a bonus mini bagel, poking and stretching a hole in the center as needed. This hands-on step is where you make that bagel magic happen!
Step 4: Boil the Bagels
Bring a pot or wide wok of water to a boil. Gently lower each bagel in—don’t crowd them—and let them simmer for about a minute, using a chopstick to flip halfway. Boiling gives Cottage Cheese Bagels (Air Fryer or Oven!) their signature chew and glossy shine (just like bagel shops!). Use a slotted spoon to place the boiled bagels on baking paper, and sprinkle your favorite toppings right away so they stick perfectly.
Step 5: Bake (Air Fryer or Oven)
To bake in the oven, preheat to 375°F (190°C) and cook the bagels for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning. In an air fryer, preheat to 350°F (180°C), bake the bagels directly on the basket (or a silicone liner) for 15–17 minutes, again flipping halfway. Let the bagels cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing—this patience pays off with the perfect texture!
How to Serve Cottage Cheese Bagels (Air Fryer or Oven!)
Garnishes
Nothing says “homemade delight” like a freshly baked bagel topped with a playful sprinkle of seeds or seasoning. Try your Cottage Cheese Bagels (Air Fryer or Oven!) with classic poppy or sesame seeds, or load up on everything bagel seasoning for that irresistible crunchy, salty hit. A thin smear of butter or cream cheese while they’re still warm takes things next level.
Side Dishes
Serve these bagels alongside scrambled eggs, smoked salmon, or a crisp salad for a complete breakfast or brunch spread. They’re equally happy at your desk for a snack or as base for a hearty lunch sandwich—just add sliced turkey, avocado, or roasted veggies for a meal that’s crave-worthy and filling.
Creative Ways to Present
Get inventive! Slice your Cottage Cheese Bagels (Air Fryer or Oven!) horizontally and stack up a bagel board with a rainbow of spreads—hummus, whipped feta, honey butter, or jam for sweet fans. Mini bagels (from those cut-out holes) are perfect for bite-sized party sandwiches or even as dippers for a creamy spinach dip. You can even try them toasted and topped with pizza fixings for a fun weeknight dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Fresh is best, but any leftover bagels will keep nicely. Store cooled Cottage Cheese Bagels (Air Fryer or Oven!) in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to two days. For a longer hold, refrigerate them and toast up to bring back their fresh-baked life.
Freezing
Cottage Cheese Bagels (Air Fryer or Oven!) freeze beautifully. To freeze, let them cool completely, slice in half, and wrap snugly in plastic wrap followed by foil. Stored this way, they’ll keep for three months. Go ahead and make a double batch—you’ll thank yourself on busy mornings!
Reheating
When ready to enjoy, pop frozen bagels directly into a toaster or toaster oven—no thawing needed! You’ll get a super crisp exterior, warm center, and all the cozy aromas of freshly baked bagels in just a few minutes.
FAQs
Can I use plain all-purpose flour if I don’t have self-rising flour?
Absolutely! Just mix one cup of all-purpose flour with 1 and 3/4 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to create your own self-rising flour. This substitution works perfectly for your Cottage Cheese Bagels (Air Fryer or Oven!).
Will the bagels taste like cottage cheese?
Surprisingly, no! Once baked, the cottage cheese just gives these bagels amazing moisture and a subtle tang—no curds or strong dairy notes. They simply taste like fantastic, slightly lighter bagels.
Should I use full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese?
Both work well! Full-fat gives a richer flavor, but low-fat and even fat-free versions will still yield soft, tasty Cottage Cheese Bagels (Air Fryer or Oven!). Just blend until ultra-smooth, and add water if needed for a yogurt-like consistency.
What other toppings can I try besides the classics?
Get creative! Try pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or even a sprinkle of coarse salt. Just steer clear of herbs or fine powders that may burn during baking. These bagels are a perfect canvas for any crunch you love.
Why do you boil the bagels before baking?
Boiling is what gives homemade bagels their trademark shine and chewy crust. This quick bath sets the outside of the dough, helps toppings stick, and brings your Cottage Cheese Bagels (Air Fryer or Oven!) closer to that authentic bakery-style texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing like the satisfaction of pulling fresh, homemade bagels from your oven or air fryer—especially when they’re as easy, nourishing, and downright delicious as Cottage Cheese Bagels (Air Fryer or Oven!). Whether you’re a bagel beginner or just looking for a fun twist on a classic, this recipe is pure joy from start to (chewy) finish. Try them once, and you’ll be making these on repeat!
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Cottage Cheese Bagels (Air Fryer or Oven!) Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 5 bagels
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cottage Cheese Bagels are a delightful twist on the classic bagel, made with a blend of cottage cheese and self-rising flour. They are boiled briefly before baking to achieve that traditional bagel texture and shine. Enjoy these bagels fresh from the oven or toasted with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients
For the bagels
- 1 cup (220g) cottage cheese, full fat or low fat
- 1 cup (130g) self-rising flour, plus extra for dusting
Toppings (optional)
- poppy seeds
- sesame seeds
- everything bagel seasoning
Instructions
- Blend the cottage cheese: Blend cottage cheese in a blender until smooth, adding water if needed. It should have a yogurt-like consistency.
- Make the dough: Mix blended cottage cheese and flour with a hand mixer until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a floured surface until smooth, divide, and shape.
- Boil the bagels: Boil bagels briefly, then add toppings.
- Oven Baking Instructions: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air Fryer Baking Instructions: Bake at 350°F (180°C) in the air fryer for 15-17 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Notes
- Storing and Freezing: Best enjoyed fresh, can be frozen for up to three months.
- Boiling Method: Traditional bagel technique for shine and texture.
- Self-Rising Flour: Make your own by mixing all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt.
- Cottage Cheese Variations: Low fat or fat-free options work, adjust water if needed for consistency.
- Topping Suggestions: Use seeds like poppy, sesame, or pumpkin for traditional bagel flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
- Calories: 131 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 133mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 7mg
