Cottage Cheese Bagels are a tasty twist on your regular bagel! They’re soft, chewy, and packed with protein, thanks to the cottage cheese mixed right into the dough.
These bagels are not only fun to make but also perfect for breakfast or a snack. I love adding some cream cheese and a sprinkle of chives on top. Yum! 🥯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese gives the bagels a rich flavor and extra moisture. If you’re looking to cut calories or fat, low-fat versions work too, but you may lose some creaminess. Greek yogurt can also be a great substitute if you want a smoother texture.
Eggs: The eggs help bind the dough and add fluffiness. If you’re vegan or allergic, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) as a substitute. It works quite well!
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard for bagels, but if you need a gluten-free option, you can try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly.
Everything Bagel Seasoning: This sprinkle adds a delicious crunch! If you don’t have it, mix equal parts sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic powder, and onion flakes for a homemade version. Simple and tasty!
What’s the Best Way to Knead Dough for Bagels?
Kneading is crucial for bagels to develop the right chewiness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start on a clean, floured surface. You want just enough flour to prevent sticking but not too much that it dries the dough out.
- Press the dough with the heels of your hands, then fold it over itself and push down again. Turn the dough a quarter turn and repeat.
- Continue kneading for about 8-10 minutes. The goal is a soft, elastic dough. If it sticks to your hands significantly, add a little extra flour.
Don’t rush this step! Proper kneading is what will give your bagels that lovely, chewy texture.
Cottage Cheese Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese (full fat preferred)
- 3 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing)
- 1 tbsp baking soda (for boiling water)
- Everything bagel seasoning or a mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic flakes, and dried onion flakes (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 1 hour for the dough to rise. After that, you’ll need about 30 minutes for boiling and baking. In total, plan for about 1 hour and 50 minutes before you can enjoy those delicious bagels!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth, making sure everything is well combined.
2. Activate the Yeast:
Sprinkle the active dry yeast over your mixture and let it rest for about 5 minutes, allowing the yeast to activate and start working its magic.
3. Add the Flour:
Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. When the dough gets too stiff to stir, it’s time to put it onto a floured surface.
4. Knead the Dough:
Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes. You want it to be soft, elastic, and a bit sticky, but manageable. Don’t hesitate to add a little more flour if it gets too sticky!
5. Let it Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
6. Preheat & Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, making it ready for your bagels.
7. Shape the Bagels:
Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal parts. Shape each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center of each ball using your finger, gently stretching it into a ring about 2-3 inches in diameter.
8. Boil the Bagels:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the baking soda. Reduce the heat to a simmer. Carefully boil the bagels, 2-3 at a time, for about 1 minute on each side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let them drain on a clean towel briefly.
9. Season and Bake:
Place the boiled bagels on your prepared baking sheet. While they are still wet, sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning or any seeds you’ve chosen. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Slice them once they have cooled a bit, then enjoy with your favorite spread or toppings!
Enjoy your delightful soft, chewy cottage cheese bagels! 🥯
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese, but keep in mind that full-fat versions provide a richer flavor and creamier texture. If you opt for low-fat, the bagels may be slightly less moist.
Can I Make These Bagels Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to the rising step and then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just let the dough come to room temperature before shaping and boiling.
How Do I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, they freeze well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag; they can last for up to 2 months.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Dough?
Definitely! You can enhance the flavor by adding herbs like dried oregano, parsley, or grated cheese directly into the dough. Just make sure not to overdo it—1/4 to 1/2 cup additional ingredients should work well without changing the dough consistency too much.
