If you’ve ever wanted a bagel that delivers flavor, fluff, and protein in one satisfying bite, let me introduce you to your new favorite: cottage cheese bagels. These golden, chewy, two-ingredient beauties have been trending for a reason. They’re easy to make, packed with protein, and totally customizable, from classic everything bagel style to sweet cinnamon crunch. Whether you’re in it for the high-protein breakfast or you just love baking that doesn’t require yeast, this recipe is for you.
In this article, I’ll show you exactly how to make Bethenny Frankel’s viral version (with my own twist), break down the nutrition facts (spoiler: they’re very breakfast-friendly), and explain why cottage cheese bagels deserve a permanent spot in your rotation. Along the way, we’ll explore fun pairing ideas like serving them with Strawberry Spinach Salad or layering on some Cottage Cheese Ranch Dip for a savory mid-morning snack.
Table of contents:
Why Cottage Cheese Works for Bagels
Let me start by saying this: I didn’t always love cottage cheese. In fact, it used to remind me of bland diet food from the early 2000s. But once I started cooking with it, especially in dishes like Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowls and Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta, everything changed. The creamy texture and tangy flavor give cottage cheese bagels a rich, tender bite you wouldn’t expect from such a simple recipe.
Combined with self-rising flour, it forms a dough that’s easy to shape and bakes to perfection. Plus, cottage cheese brings serious nutritional value to the table, making cottage cheese bagels a smart option for anyone chasing a protein-packed breakfast that doesn’t skimp on satisfaction.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Bagels (Step-by-Step Guide)
Making cottage cheese bagels at home is easier than you’d expect. With just a few ingredients and one mixing bowl, you can have warm, chewy bagels ready in under 30 minutes. No yeast. No rise time. Just simple ingredients doing all the work.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick breakfast, these bagels are endlessly adaptable. Want a savory option? Add some garlic powder or mix in shredded cheese. Prefer sweet? Toss in cinnamon and raisins. I like to keep a batch in the freezer for those mornings when I’m craving something cozy with a boost of protein, just like I do with Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites.
Ingredients
- 1 cup self-rising flour
- 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- Toppings of your choice: sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, asiago cheese, or poppy seeds
You don’t need any fancy equipment for these. Just a bowl, a spoon, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. That’s it. And if you’ve made our Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole, you already know how satisfying it is to pull something warm and homemade from the oven in under 30 minutes.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the dough: In a medium bowl, stir together self-rising flour and cottage cheese until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead briefly: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 1–2 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky.
- Shape your bagels: Divide the dough into 4 pieces. Roll each into a log and form into a bagel shape, pinching the ends together.
- Apply the egg wash: Whisk the egg and brush the tops of each bagel. Sprinkle your chosen toppings generously.
- Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
That’s it—you’ve got freshly baked cottage cheese bagels that are warm, chewy, and endlessly versatile.
Are Cottage Cheese Bagels Good for Weight Loss?
Absolutely, and here’s why. Cottage cheese bagels aren’t just trendy, they’re smart. Each bagel packs in protein from the cottage cheese and skips the added sugars you often find in store-bought varieties. That protein helps keep you full longer, which means fewer cravings mid-morning.
If you’re working on weight loss goals, having protein-forward options like cottage cheese bagels can make a big difference. I like to batch a few on Sunday night and enjoy them during the week with avocado, egg, or even a swipe of almond butter. They’re great for balance, especially when compared to sugar-heavy muffins or carb-loaded toast.
Want more ideas like this? You might also love Greek Yogurt Plum Cake for a lighter dessert or Cottage Cheese Banana Bread for a snack that doubles as breakfast.
How Many Calories Are in a Cottage Cheese Bagel?
The basic version of cottage cheese bagels (made with full-fat cottage cheese and self-rising flour) clocks in at about 140–160 calories per serving—depending on size and toppings.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Component | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Self-rising flour (1 cup) | 400 |
| Full-fat cottage cheese (1 cup) | 210 |
| 1 egg (for egg wash) | 70 |
Divide that dough into 4 and you’re looking at roughly 170 calories per bagel before toppings. Swap in low-fat cottage cheese to shave off a bit more, or go for mini versions if you’re watching portions.
How to Serve Cottage Cheese Bagels
Once you pull your cottage cheese bagels from the oven, the fun really starts. These warm, golden bagels are incredibly versatile. I love slicing them in half, toasting them lightly, and spreading on whipped cream cheese with a drizzle of hot honey. For a savory twist, top with mashed avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of sea salt, or go full brunch and add a poached egg on top. They’re perfect with a side of Strawberry Spinach Salad or alongside a Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole for a sweet-and-savory spread.
These cottage cheese bagels also work beautifully as a base for breakfast sandwiches. Add turkey bacon, scrambled eggs, and a slice of cheddar and you’ve got a protein-packed start to your day. I’ve even served them cut into quarters on a brunch board with dips, sliced fruits, and smoked salmon. Always a hit.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
When I make cottage cheese bagels ahead for Sunday brunch, I find that prepping the dough the night before saves me a ton of time in the morning. I’ll mix and shape the bagels, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, I just brush with egg wash, bake, and serve. Fresh-baked bagels in 20 minutes flat? That’s a weekend win.
Once baked, they store well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap each cooled bagel tightly and pop into a freezer-safe bag. Just reheat in the toaster oven or microwave. I often keep a few frozen for those “no time to cook” mornings, because having homemade cottage cheese bagels ready to go makes breakfast feel like less of a chore and more of a treat.
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Cottage Cheese Bagels: 1 Delicious, Protein-Packed Trend You’ll Love
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 bagels
Description
These soft, chewy cottage cheese bagels use just 3 ingredients and are ready in 30 minutes. A high-protein, low-effort option for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
1 cup self-rising flour
1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
1 large egg (for egg wash)
Toppings of your choice: sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, asiago cheese, or poppy seeds
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, stir together flour and cottage cheese until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn dough onto floured surface and knead briefly until smooth.
4. Divide into 4 portions, roll into logs, and shape into bagels.
5. Place on baking sheet. Brush with egg wash and add toppings.
6. Bake for 20–22 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Use low-fat cottage cheese for a lighter version.
Freeze baked bagels for up to 1 month.
Customize with sweet or savory toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Final Thoughts on Cottage Cheese Bagels
Cottage cheese bagels aren’t just another viral recipe, they’re a smart, satisfying way to enjoy bagels with fewer carbs and way more protein. Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch, a weekday breakfast sandwich, or a high-protein snack, these bagels prove that wholesome can still taste indulgent.
They’ve quickly become a staple in my kitchen, right alongside my go-to Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowls and Cottage Cheese Banana Bread. And the best part? You don’t need fancy tools, yeast, or hours of rising time to enjoy warm, chewy, bakery-style bagels at home.
Yes! It adds creaminess, moisture, and protein, giving you a chewy, fluffy texture without butter or oil.
Mix 1 cup self-rising flour with 1 cup cottage cheese, shape into bagels, brush with egg wash, add toppings, and bake at 375°F for 20–22 minutes.
About 140–170 calories per bagel, depending on the size and toppings.
Absolutely. It’s high in protein, low in sugar, and keeps you full longer—great for managing appetite and supporting healthy habits.
