High Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe for a Guilt-Free Morning Start
If you’re someone who craves a fresh-baked bagel but doesn’t want to sacrifice your protein goals, this high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe is a dream come true. We’re talking warm, chewy, golden rounds made with just a few ingredients—and yes, no yeast, no fuss.
This high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, delivering that perfect chewy bite without the carb-heavy crash of traditional bagels. If you’re looking for a quick, nourishing option, this high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe is your new go-to. In this post, I’ll show you exactly how to make these high protein cottage cheese bagels, share my favorite variations, and explain why they’ve become a staple in my healthy breakfast routine. Get ready to fall in love with this high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe—one warm, golden bite at a time.
Print
High Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe That’s Quick & Chewy
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels 1x
Description
Chewy, golden, and full of protein—these cottage cheese bagels are quick to make and perfect for healthy breakfasts or snacks.
Ingredients
1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour (or whole wheat/gluten-free)
2 tsp baking powder
¾ tsp kosher salt
1 cup 2% cottage cheese (strained well)
1 egg white or 1 large egg (beaten)
Optional toppings: everything bagel seasoning, sesame, poppy, dried garlic/onion flakes
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Blend cottage cheese until smooth.
3. Mix with flour, baking powder, and salt until dough forms.
4. Knead 8-10 times on a floured surface until smooth.
5. Divide into 4 balls, roll into ropes, and form circles. Pinch to seal.
6. Brush with egg wash and add toppings.
7. Bake for 25–30 min or air fry at 350°F for 12–14 min.
8. Cool for 15 min before slicing.
Notes
Strain your cottage cheese well to avoid sticky dough.
Use gluten-free flour like Cup4Cup if needed.
Store bagels in airtight container up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked or Air Fried
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Why You’ll Love These High Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels
How this recipe started in my farmhouse kitchen
It was one early spring morning when I was sipping coffee with Maple (my golden retriever) curled up by the oven that I first blended cottage cheese into my favorite bagel mix. The result? A shockingly easy, chewy, high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe that quickly became part of my Sunday meal prep.
I love this high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe because it skips the hassle—no boiling, no yeast, and absolutely no rise time. These high protein cottage cheese bagels come together quickly, with all the chewy texture you want thanks to the cottage cheese, and a crisp, golden crust from a simple egg wash. What makes this high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe even better is how easy it is to customize. I’ve topped them with everything seasoning, garlic flakes, even cinnamon and stevia—and every version of these high protein cottage cheese bagels has turned out delicious.
Ingredients & Instructions for Cottage Cheese Bagels

Simple pantry staples meet high-protein goodness
One of the biggest wins of this high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe is just how few ingredients you actually need. No obscure flour blends or special powders. Just wholesome, simple components you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour (or use whole wheat or gluten-free options like Cup4Cup)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder (fresh is key—expired won’t rise!)
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt (or reduce if using table salt)
- 1 cup 2% cottage cheese, well-strained (Good Culture is my favorite)
- 1 egg white or one large egg, beaten
- toppings: bagel seasoning, seeds, poppy seeds
How to make the bagels: step-by-step

- Preheat oven to 375°F and place your rack in the top third. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Blend the cottage cheese until smooth. This is key for even dough and less clumping.
- Make the dough: In a medium bowl, mix the blended cottage cheese with flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until a dough ball forms.
- Knead it on a floured surface about 8–10 times, adding flour if it’s sticky.
- Shape the dough into 4 balls, then roll each into a 6–7-inch rope and form a circle. Seal ends by pinching tightly.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden. Let cool for 15 minutes before slicing.
For air fryer lovers, preheat to 350°F, spray the basket, and air fry for 12–14 minutes until golden.
Easy Variations, Substitutions & Pro Tips for Perfect Bagels

Fun ways to flavor your high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe
One reason this high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe has become a weekly staple in my kitchen is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, a little spicy, or slightly sweet, this dough welcomes it all.
Try these tasty twists:
- Sweet cinnamon bagels: Mix ½ teaspoon cinnamon and a touch of monk fruit sweetener into the dough. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before baking.
- Cheddar jalapeño: Add ¼ cup shredded sharp cheddar and 1 tablespoon finely chopped jalapeños for a bold, cheesy finish.
- Garlic herb blend: Add dried basil, oregano, and garlic powder right into the dough, then finish with garlic flakes on top.
- Everything seed combo: Classic and always satisfying—coat the tops with everything bagel seasoning for crunch and flavor.
These creative takes keep the high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe fresh and fun week after week.
Smart ingredient swaps that keep protein high
- Gluten-free? Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix .
- Dairy-free? Swap the cottage cheese for a high-protein plant-based alternative or unsweetened Greek-style dairy-free yogurt.
- No eggs? Use aquafaba or a splash of almond milk for the egg wash instead.
If you’re comparing protein sources, remember this: cottage cheese contains more protein per 100 grams than eggs and includes slow-digesting casein, making it ideal for both breakfast and nighttime snacks. That’s part of why this high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe works any time of day.
Best baking tips
Weigh your dough if you want even portions—80g each works beautifully.
Strain the cottage cheese before blending.
Use fresh baking powder—it’s your only leavening here, so freshness matters.
cottage cheese has more calcium and protein. This makes it a slow-digesting, ideal for energy. (By the way, check out my high-protein bagels recipe for another twist on this.)
if you need more recipes follow me on facebook .
Nutrition Facts
Why these high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe belong in your weekly meal prep
Each bagel in this high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe offers an impressive balance of nutrients. You’re looking at approximately:
Nutrient | Per Bagel |
---|---|
Calories | 155–170 |
Protein | 11–13g |
Carbohydrates | 17–20g |
Fat | 3–4g |
Fiber | 1–2g (more with whole wheat) |
They’re low in fat, high in protein, and totally customizable. They also pair well with savory toppings like hummus, or sweet options like almond butter.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered
What can I add to cottage cheese to increase protein?
You can mix in a scoop of protein, or eggs. Adding seeds like chia or hemp also boosts protein without altering texture.
What has more protein: eggs or cottage cheese?
Cottage cheese contains more protein than eggs. Plus, it’s rich in casein, making it a top choice for this high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe.
Is it okay to eat cottage cheese every day?
Yes! Cottage cheese is high in protein and calcium. Just look for low-sodium options if you’re watching salt intake.
What’s better: Greek yogurt or cottage cheese?
Both are excellent protein sources. Cottage cheese has more protein and fewer carbs, while Greek yogurt provides gut-friendly probiotics. In this recipe, cottage cheese gives moisture and chewiness that yogurt can’t match.
Is cottage cheese better in the morning or at night?
Cottage cheese works well at both times. It’s great in the morning for energy, and perfect at night because its slow-digesting protein keeps you full longer.
What are the healthiest bagels to eat?
Homemade options like this high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe are best—no preservatives, low in added sugar, and packed with whole ingredients.
What’s healthier: eggs or bagels?
Eggs are lower in carbs and higher in fats, but a bagel made with this high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe gives you the best of both: protein-rich and filling, without empty carbs.
What is the healthiest topping for a bagel?
Stick with high-protein toppings: whipped cottage cheese, smoked salmon, avocado, or even herbed Greek yogurt. They pair perfectly with the base from this high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe.
This high protein cottage cheese bagels recipe is the answer to every busy, health-conscious home cook who still craves the comfort of a freshly baked bagel. With simple ingredients, quick prep, and flexible variations, these bagels make an ideal meal prep staple. They’re perfect on their own, or topped with nut butter, smashed avocado, or even a fried egg.
Whether you’re looking to increase your protein intake, lower your refined carb load, or just fall in love with baking again, this recipe delivers.