These Spinach Cottage Cheese Flat Bagels are a tasty twist on traditional bagels, packed with healthy spinach and creamy cottage cheese. They’re perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Making these bagels is a breeze! I love how quickly they come together. Plus, they can be enjoyed plain or topped with your favorite spread. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This provides creaminess and protein. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat cottage cheese. For a non-dairy alternative, try using a thick vegan yogurt or ricotta.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for this recipe, but you can also use frozen spinach. Just thaw and squeeze out any excess water. If you’re not a fan of spinach, you could substitute with kale or finely grated zucchini.
Mozzarella Cheese: I love using shredded mozzarella for its meltiness. For a different flavor, try using provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Self-Rising Flour: If you don’t have self-rising flour, mix all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt. About 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1.5 tsp of baking powder and 0.5 tsp of salt works well.
How Do I Make Sure My Bagels Are Perfectly Shaped?
Shaping the bagels can be tricky, but it’s simple! Lightly flour your hands to prevent sticking. For uniform size, divide the dough into equal portions. Create a disk shape by flattening each piece, then use your finger to poke a hole in the center.
- Ensure the hole is big enough; it may close up as they bake.
- Don’t worry about perfection—these bagels are meant to be fun and rustic!
Enjoy making your Spinach Cottage Cheese Flat Bagels! They’re easy to whip up and a delightful treat.
Spinach Cottage Cheese Flat Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup self-rising flour (or all-purpose flour with 1 1/2 tsp baking powder and 1/2 tsp salt)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped finely
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15–18 minutes to bake, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll love how quickly you can whip these up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Cheeses and Egg:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and egg. Use a fork or a spatula to mix well until everything is blended together smoothly.
3. Create the Dough:
Gradually add the self-rising flour to the cheese mixture, stirring continuously. Keep mixing until a sticky dough forms; this will give your bagels a nice texture!
4. Add Spinach and Seasonings:
Fold in the finely chopped spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Mix gently to incorporate everything evenly.
5. Shape the Bagels:
Dust your hands lightly with flour to prevent sticking. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions, and shape each into a flat round disk about 1/2 inch thick. Use your finger to poke a hole in the center of each disk to form bagels.
6. Bake:
Place each formed bagel onto the prepared baking sheet. If you like, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added crunch. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown and cooked through.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. They are delicious served warm and can be enjoyed on their own or with your favorite spreads!
Enjoy these warm, cheesy, and spinach-packed flat bagels for breakfast, snacks, or as a side with soups and salads!
Can I Use Different Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella gives a nice melt, you can substitute it with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave for a quick snack or warm them in the oven for a fresher taste.
Can I Make These Bagels Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of self-rising flour. Just ensure that it has a leavening agent included, or add some baking powder and salt if necessary.
How Do I Freeze These Bagels?
You can freeze the bagels once they’ve cooled completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag with as much air removed as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
