Fluffy Protein Bagels: Cottage Cheese Magic Recipe

Crafting the perfect protein bagels with cottage cheese opens a world of delightful breakfast possibilities.

These homemade bagels pack a serious nutritional punch that will revolutionize your morning routine.

Bakers seeking a healthier alternative to traditional bagels will fall in love with this simple yet delicious recipe.

cottage cheese brings an unexpected creaminess and protein boost to these golden, chewy rings.

Each bite delivers a satisfying blend of texture and flavor that keeps you energized throughout the morning.

The process is straightforward, requiring just a few basic ingredients and minimal kitchen skills.

You’ll be amazed at how easily these protein-rich bagels come together, transforming your breakfast game with every delectable bite.

FAQs

• Are these bagels healthy?

Yes, these protein bagels are a nutritious alternative to traditional bagels. They’re made with cottage cheese, which adds protein, and use less flour, making them lower in carbs and higher in protein.

• Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the blend has similar binding properties to maintain the dough’s texture.

• How long do these bagels stay fresh?

These homemade bagels stay fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 weeks.

• Do I need special equipment to make these bagels?

No special equipment is needed. You can use either an air fryer or a standard oven. A mixing bowl, spatula, and baking sheet or air fryer basket are all you’ll require.

Protein Bagels with Cottage Cheese Overview

• Pack a nutritious punch with cottage cheese, delivering extra protein in a delicious bagel form that supports muscle health and keeps you feeling satisfied.
• Personalize your bagels with endless seasoning options like everything bagel mix, sesame seeds, or dried herbs, making each batch uniquely yours and exciting to prepare.
• Perfect for beginner bakers with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe guarantees successful results without complex techniques or fancy equipment.

Protein Bagels with Cottage Cheese Ingredients

• All-Purpose Flour: A key component that provides structure and texture to the bagels.
• Baking Powder: Helps the bagels rise and creates a light, fluffy texture.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the bagel dough.

• Cottage Cheese: Adds protein and moisture to the bagel, creating a unique tender texture.

• Egg: Used as a wash to create a golden-brown shine and help seasonings stick to the bagel surface.
• Seasonings: Everything Bagel Seasoning, Sesame Seeds, Dried Garlic Flakes, Dried Onion Flakes: Provide additional flavor and create a customizable topping for the bagels.

Protein Bagels with Cottage Cheese Directions

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and toss in your unbleached all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt.

Whisk everything together until the dry ingredients create a uniform mixture that looks light and airy.

Step 2: Add Creamy Cottage Cheese

Drain your cottage cheese thoroughly and dump it into the dry ingredient bowl.

Use a fork or spatula to blend until the mixture looks crumbly and starts to come together.

The cottage cheese will create a unique texture that makes these bagels special.

Step 3: Knead Into Smooth Dough

Roll up your sleeves and dive in with your hands.

Knead the mixture until it transforms into a cohesive, smooth dough.

Work it for about two minutes, ensuring it’s not sticky but holds together perfectly.

Step 4: Shape Bagel Rings

Divide the dough into four equal portions.

Roll each piece into a rope about 3/4-inch thick.

Connect the ends to form classic bagel circles, or create a ball and punch a hole in the center.

Gently stretch to create that iconic bagel shape.

Step 5: Add Delicious Toppings

Prepare an egg wash by whisking an egg.

• Everything bagel seasoning
• Sesame seeds
• Dried garlic flakes
• Dried onion flakes
• Poppy seeds

Step 6: Air Fry To Golden Perfection

Lightly oil your air fryer basket.

Carefully place the bagels inside, making sure they’re not touching.

Cook at 280F for 15-16 minutes until they reach a beautiful golden-brown color.

No need to flip during cooking.

Step 7: Oven Baking Alternative

If using an oven, preheat to 375F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil.

Place bagels on the top rack and bake for 25 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 8: Cool And Set

Allow bagels to cool for at least 15 minutes.

This crucial step helps them set properly and makes slicing much easier.

The cooling process ensures a perfect texture and prevents crumbling.

Step 9: Serve And Enjoy

Slice your bagels and serve them however you like.

They’re delicious with cream cheese, as a breakfast sandwich, or simply toasted with butter.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Tips for Protein Bagels with Cottage Cheese

• Strain cottage cheese thoroughly using a fine-mesh sieve to remove excess liquid, ensuring a perfect dough consistency and preventing soggy bagels.
• Knead the dough gently but firmly for exactly two minutes, creating a smooth texture that's tacky but not sticky, which is crucial for bagel structure.
• Experiment with different seasoning blends like everything bagel mix, za'atar, or dried herb combinations to elevate the bagel's taste profile.
• Adapt the recipe by using either an air fryer or conventional oven, adjusting temperature and time to achieve your preferred texture and golden-brown finish.
• Allow bagels to rest for a full 15 minutes after cooking, which helps them set, making slicing easier and maintaining their ideal shape and texture.

Store and Reheat Protein Bagels

• Store cooled bagels in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag. Keep them refrigerated for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the bag with the date to track storage time.
• Wrap bagel in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds. This method helps restore softness and prevents drying out.
• Slice bagel in half and toast on medium setting until warm and slightly crispy. Add a touch of butter or cream cheese for extra flavor after reheating.

Pairings for Protein Bagels with Cottage Cheese

• Pair with Protein-Packed Partners: Create protein smoothies with Greek yogurt, whey protein, and mixed berries to complement the bagel's nutritional profile.
• Elevate with Savory Spreads: Top bagels with herb-infused cream cheese, smoked salmon spread, or avocado hummus to enhance flavor complexity and add extra protein.
• Match with Protein-Rich Beverages: Serve alongside cold brew coffee mixed with protein collagen powder or a chilled almond milk protein shake for a balanced, energizing meal.
• Complement with Fresh Sides: Add a side of edamame salad or hard-boiled eggs to boost protein intake and provide textural contrast to the bagel's soft, chewy texture.

Protein Bagels with Cottage Cheese Options

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace unbleached all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free blend to create a celiac-friendly option that maintains similar texture and protein content.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Swap regular flour with coconut flour or ground flaxseed to reduce carbohydrate intake while preserving the bagel's core structure and nutritional profile.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute cottage cheese with silken tofu or plant-based yogurt to accommodate lactose-intolerant individuals without compromising protein levels.
• Vegan Protein Option: Use nutritional yeast instead of egg wash and replace cottage cheese with mashed chickpeas or plant-based protein powder to create a completely plant-based bagel recipe.

Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese Recipe

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4.7 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Protein-packed bagels showcase cottage cheese’s magic in a healthier breakfast revolution. Crisp exterior and tender crumb make these homemade bagels a delightful morning companion you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Protein Bagels With Cottage Cheese Recipe

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 ml) unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (227 grams) 2% cottage cheese
• 1 egg white

Leavening and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons (10 grams) baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon (4 grams) kosher salt

Optional Toppings:

• everything bagel seasoning
• sesame seeds
• poppy seeds
• dried garlic flakes
• dried onion flakes

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Instructions

1. In a spacious mixing vessel, combine unbleached flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Thoroughly whisk the dry ingredients until uniformly blended, creating a consistent base for your protein-rich bagels.
2. Integrate well-strained cottage cheese into the dry mixture. Use a fork or spatula to blend until the mixture develops a crumbly texture, ensuring even distribution of the cheese throughout the dough.
3. Transition to hand-kneading, working the mixture until it transforms into a cohesive, smooth dough. Continue kneading for approximately two minutes, achieving a tacky consistency that holds together without sticking to your hands.
4. Portion the dough into four equal segments. Shape each portion into a 3/4-inch thick rope, connecting the ends to form circular bagel shapes or creating a ball with a central hole by gently stretching the dough.
5. Prepare an egg wash and generously brush each bagel’s surface. Liberally sprinkle with preferred seasonings like everything bagel mix, sesame seeds, or a blend of dried herbs and spices for added flavor complexity.
6. For air frying, lightly oil the basket and arrange bagels without overcrowding. Cook at 280F for 15-16 minutes until they develop a golden-brown exterior. No mid-cooking rotation is required.
7. Alternatively, preheat the oven to 375F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, lightly spraying with oil to prevent adhesion. Position bagels on the top rack and bake for 25 minutes until achieving a perfect golden finish.
8. After cooking, allow bagels to rest and cool for a minimum of 15 minutes. This crucial cooling period helps the bagels set, ensuring structural integrity and making slicing more manageable.
9. Once completely cooled, slice and serve. Enjoy these protein-packed bagels with your favorite spreads or as a versatile base for sandwiches and morning meals.

Notes

• Strain cottage cheese thoroughly to prevent excess moisture, ensuring a perfect dough consistency and preventing soggy bagels.
• Customize seasonings creatively by mixing herbs, spices, or nutritional yeast to boost flavor and nutritional value without compromising texture.
• For a meal prep option, store cooled bagels in an airtight container or freeze individually wrapped for quick, protein-packed breakfasts or snacks.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 155
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 1.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 2mg