Homemade Cottage Cheese Bagels

Name: Homemade Cottage Cheese Bagels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups bread flour; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup warm water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Everything bagel seasoning; Sesame seeds; Poppy seeds; Sea salt

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making homemade cottage cheese bagels for breakfast or brunch. There's something so rewarding about creating these bagels from scratch, and the addition of cottage cheese makes them fluffy and delicious. I enjoy experimenting with various toppings too, from everything seasoning to sesame seeds. As I knead the dough, the anticipation builds, and as they bake, my kitchen fills with a wonderful aroma that draws everyone in. If you're looking for a unique twist on traditional bagels, these are definitely worth trying.

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:04:18.843Z

When I first decided to make cottage cheese bagels, I wasn't sure how they'd turn out. I was pleasantly surprised by the moist and chewy texture brought on by the cottage cheese. Using a combination of bread flour and all-purpose flour made a perfect dough that holds together beautifully without being too dense.

I also found that letting the bagels boil in the water before baking gives them that classic bagel crust that I simply adore. I highly recommend adjusting the toppings to suit your taste, whether you want something savory or sweet!

        Why You'll Love These Bagels
        Incredibly soft and chewy texture thanks to the cottage cheese
Endless possibilities for toppings to suit any palate
Fun and engaging process of making your own bagels at home

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key ingredient in these bagels is cottage cheese, which significantly influences the texture. It adds moisture and a light, fluffy quality that sets these bagels apart from traditional versions. Opt for full-fat cottage cheese for richness; however, low-fat versions can still yield satisfying results. Additionally, the combination of bread flour and all-purpose flour provides a perfect balance of chewiness and softness, ensuring that your bagels maintain their structure while being delightful to bite into.

Another essential ingredient is the instant yeast, which allows for a quicker rise. If you only have active dry yeast, you can substitute it; however, you'll need to proof it in warm water first. The sugar in the dough doesn’t just sweeten; it also helps with browning during baking, giving your bagels that beautiful golden crust. All these ingredients play a crucial role in developing flavor and texture, enhancing the overall eating experience.

Perfecting the Bagel Shape

Shaping the bagels correctly is vital for both appearance and cooking. After dividing the dough into eight pieces, ensure each piece is rolled into a smooth ball. When forming the bagels, the hole in the center should be about 1-2 inches wide, as it will narrow during the boiling and baking process. If the holes disappear, no worries! Just reshape them gently before placing them in the water. The even thickness of the dough ensures even cooking throughout.

When you boil the bagels, make sure the water is at a rolling boil. This step is essential for achieving that characteristic bagel crust. If the bagels start to stick to the pot, you might be overcrowding the pot; boil in smaller batches for best results. Watch for visual cues: look for a slight puffing up as they cook, which indicates they are ready to be removed.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for your homemade cottage cheese bagels:

Bagel Dough Ingredients

2 cups bread flour
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil

Topping Options

Everything bagel seasoning
Sesame seeds
Poppy seeds
Sea salt

Feel free to customize your toppings according to your preferences!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delicious homemade bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Stir in the cottage cheese, warm water, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.

Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 15 minutes until it has doubled in size.

Shape the Bagels

After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and use your finger to poke a hole through the center, shaping it into a bagel.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop the bagels in batches and boil them for about 1 minute on each side. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the boiled bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle your chosen toppings over each bagel.

Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Once baked, allow the bagels to cool slightly before enjoying them fresh!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding herbs or spices to the dough before shaping your bagels. Make sure to boil them long enough for that perfect bagel crust!

Storage and Freshness

These homemade cottage cheese bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers to maintain their deliciousness. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping them in plastic wrap, or placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic and then placed in a zip-top bag. This way, they can last for about 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy one, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat them in a toaster or oven for that freshly-baked taste.

If you find yourself with too many bagels or want to save some for later, consider slicing them before freezing. This makes it easier to toast individual bagel halves directly from the freezer without needing to thaw the whole bagel first. My tip is to resist the temptation to freeze them if you plan on consuming them within the next few days; nothing beats the flavor and texture of a fresh bagel straight from the oven.

Topping and Serving Suggestions

The topping options for these bagels are abundant, so feel free to get creative! Classic choices such as everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds add texture and flavor that complement the soft bagel nicely. If you prefer something sweeter, try a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking. You can also experiment with toppings like cheese or herbs, which can elevate your breakfast game. Just remember, toppings should be applied right after boiling and before baking for them to adhere properly.

These bagels are versatile enough to stand as a breakfast staple or a delightful brunch item. Serve them warm with cream cheese, avocado, or your favorite spread. You can also create a bagel sandwich by filling them with smoked salmon, capers, or deli meats. For a larger gathering, consider making a bagel bar with various toppings and spreads, allowing everyone to customize their bagel experience. The possibilities are endless!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these bagels dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative like silken tofu blended until smooth.

→ How long do these bagels last?

Homemade bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They also freeze well for longer storage.

→ Can I add flavors to the dough?

Yes! Feel free to experiment by adding garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs to the dough for extra flavor.

→ What is the best way to reheat bagels?

To reheat, simply toast them for a few minutes or warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.