Cottage Cheese Bagels – High Protein & Easy to Make

Why Cottage Cheese Bagels Changed My Breakfast Game

Cottage cheese bagels have completely transformed how I think about breakfast. I used to rely on toast or granola bars—quick, but not exactly satisfying. Then I discovered these easy, protein-packed bagels made with cottage cheese, and everything changed. They’re chewy, golden, and nourishing in a way that keeps me full for hours. Best of all, they come together in one bowl and bake in under 30 minutes.

I first tried cottage cheese bagels after a friend told me about a viral high-protein recipe. I was skeptical—cottage cheese? In bread? But after one bite, I was hooked. The texture is soft but hearty, and the flavor is neutral enough to go sweet or savory. You can top them with everything bagel seasoning or cinnamon sugar, smear on cream cheese or peanut butter, or just eat them warm with a pat of butter. They’re that versatile.

If you’re looking for a better-for-you alternative to traditional bagels without sacrificing flavor or texture, cottage cheese bagels are it. They’re also perfect for meal prep, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable. From my kitchen to yours, here’s everything you need to know about making the best cottage cheese bagels from scratch—plus tips to tweak them for your diet or taste preferences.

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What You Need to Make Cottage Cheese Bagels

Making cottage cheese bagels at home doesn’t require any fancy tools or ingredients. In fact, you probably already have most of what you need in your pantry or fridge. These bagels come together with just a handful of simple ingredients—and the result is a soft, chewy, golden crust with a fluffy, protein-rich interior.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cottage cheese (¾ cup) – Use 2% or 4% for the best texture. If you prefer a smoother dough, blend it first. For another creative way to bake with cottage cheese, try these cottage cheese carrot cake muffins.
• All-purpose flour or self-rising flour (1 cup) – If using all-purpose, add 1½ tsp baking powder and ¼ tsp salt.
• Egg (1 large) – Helps bind the dough and gives the bagels structure.
• Baking powder (if not using self-rising flour) – For lift and lightness.
• Toppings (optional) – Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, cinnamon sugar, or shredded cheese.

If you want a boost of protein, you can replace a few tablespoons of flour with unflavored protein powder—similar to the approach in these protein oatmeal cookies. Just be sure to adjust liquid slightly if the dough becomes too dry.

These cottage cheese bagels are naturally high in protein and lower in fat compared to regular bagels, especially when you use low-fat cottage cheese. Each one has around 10–12 grams of protein, making them a great option for breakfast, post-workout snacks, or even mini sandwiches.

Why Cottage Cheese Is Perfect for Bagels

Cottage cheese does more than just boost the protein—it improves the texture. Unlike Greek yogurt, which has a tangy bite and can sometimes dry out baked goods, cottage cheese gives a creamy, neutral flavor and a tender crumb. That’s why so many people are switching from yogurt-based doughs to this dairy-rich upgrade.

Bethenny Frankel’s viral cottage cheese bagel recipe also uses this concept. Her version calls for blending the cottage cheese until smooth before mixing it with flour and baking powder. It creates a silky dough that’s incredibly easy to handle. The result? A fluffy, protein-packed bagel that toasts like a dream.

Whether you’re into savory or sweet bagels, cottage cheese provides a neutral canvas you can build on—just like in these blueberry cottage cheese muffins that work equally well for breakfast or dessert.

How to Make Cottage Cheese Bagels at Home

If you’ve never made bagels before, don’t worry—these cottage cheese bagels are beginner-friendly and come together in four simple steps. There’s no yeast, no boiling, and no rising time needed. Just mix, shape, top, and bake. You’ll have warm, protein-packed bagels ready in under 30 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Blend the Cottage Cheese (Optional)
For a smoother dough, start by blending your cottage cheese until it’s creamy. This helps create a consistent texture in the final bagels. If you like a bit of cottage cheese curd inside your bagels, skip the blending.

2. Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine flour (or self-rising flour), baking powder (if needed), and salt. Add the cottage cheese and egg. Stir with a fork or spatula until a sticky dough forms. Don’t overmix—stop as soon as everything is combined.

3. Shape the Bagels
Lightly flour your hands and divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each into a log, then pinch the ends to form a bagel shape. Alternatively, you can flatten into rounds and use your finger to poke a hole in the center. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

4. Add Toppings
Brush each bagel with a beaten egg for shine and texture. Sprinkle your favorite toppings—everything seasoning, sesame seeds, shredded cheese, or cinnamon sugar.

5. Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the cottage cheese bagels for 22–25 minutes. They’re done when the tops are golden and the bottoms sound hollow when tapped. Let them cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing or toasting.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing Tips

These cottage cheese bagels are perfect for meal prep. You can store them at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, pop one in the toaster or warm it in the oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes.

Want to freeze them? Slice bagels in half, place parchment between each piece, and freeze in a zip-top bag. They reheat beautifully straight from frozen in the toaster.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, cottage cheese bagels are the kind of recipe that fits into even the busiest weekday schedule.

Flavor Variations and Customizations for Cottage Cheese Bagels

One of the best things about cottage cheese bagels is how adaptable they are. Whether you’re craving something sweet with cinnamon and raisins or want a savory bite with garlic and herbs, this high-protein dough works both ways. Here are my favorite ways to customize them:

Sweet Bagel Variations

• Cinnamon Raisin: Add 1 tsp cinnamon and 2 tbsp raisins to the dough. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking for a sweet, spiced flavor.
• Blueberry Protein: Gently fold in fresh or dried blueberries—these pair perfectly with the flavors in blueberry cottage cheese muffins.
• Chocolate Chip: Mix in mini dark chocolate chips for a dessert-style cottage cheese bagel that pairs perfectly with peanut butter or a light glaze.

Savory Bagel Twists

• Everything Bagels: Top with everything bagel seasoning after brushing with egg wash. It’s the classic, and it works beautifully here.
• Garlic Herb: Add ½ tsp garlic powder and 1 tsp dried Italian herbs to the dough. Top with Parmesan or flaky sea salt before baking.
• Cheddar Jalapeño: Fold shredded cheddar and chopped jalapeños into the dough—amazing with a fried egg or alongside pistachio chocolate chip cookies for a savory-sweet brunch spread.

Cottage Cheese vs Greek Yogurt in Protein Bagels

Many protein bagel recipes use Greek yogurt as the main binder. While it works well, cottage cheese brings a few distinct advantages.

Feature	Cottage Cheese Bagels	Greek Yogurt Bagels
Protein per serving	10–12g	8–10g
Texture	Soft, tender, moist	Slightly drier, chewier
Flavor	Neutral, slightly creamy	Tangy
Best for	Sweet or savory variations	Savory-focused bakes

If you’re trying to decide between the two, go with cottage cheese for a softer bite and more balanced flavor. It’s also easier to blend smooth, which helps if you’re picky about texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cottage Cheese Bagels

The Bagel That Checks All the Boxes

Cottage cheese bagels have truly become one of my favorite go-to recipes. They’re soft, satisfying, and simple enough to make on a busy weekday morning—yet special enough for a cozy weekend brunch. Whether you’re aiming for high protein, lower carbs, or just something homemade and comforting, these bagels fit the bill.

What I love most is how flexible they are. You can keep them plain and pair with peanut butter, turn them savory with herbs and cheese, or go sweet with chocolate chips and cinnamon. They freeze well, reheat beautifully, and always disappear fast in my house.

If you give this cottage cheese bagel recipe a try, I’d love to see how yours turn out! Share your bakes with me over on Facebook or tag your creations on Pinterest. There’s nothing better than seeing your kitchen wins!