Looking for an easy, high-protein breakfast that tastes delicious? These 2 Ingredient Cottage Cheese Bagels are one of Kiersten’s favorite recipes, and we think you’ll love them, too!
Made with just cottage cheese and self-rising flour, these homemade bagels are soft, chewy, and packed with protein. There’s no yeast, no rising time, and no complicated steps. Enjoy them toasted with your favorite toppings, or use them to make a satisfying breakfast sandwich. They’re perfect for meal prep, busy mornings, or anytime you’re craving a fresh, homemade bagel!
Why You’ll Love These Cottage Cheese Bagels
Homemade bagels might sound complicated, but this easy recipe makes them simple enough for a weekday breakfast.
Here’s why you’ll want to make a batch:
- Only two main ingredients. Cottage cheese and self-rising flour are all you need for the dough.
- High in protein. Thanks to the cottage cheese, these bagels provide a protein boost compared to many traditional bagel recipes.
- No yeast or rising time. Mix, shape, and bake. That’s it!
- Perfect for meal prep. Make a batch ahead of time for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
- Easy to customize. Add everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, cheese, or your favorite toppings.
- Budget-friendly. No specialty flour or expensive protein powder required.
These bagels are especially helpful if you’re working toward weight-loss goals and want simple ways to include more protein in your meals.
Ingredients for 2 Ingredient Cottage Cheese Bagels
- Low-fat cottage cheese
- Self-rising flour
- Optional: egg for brushing
- Optional: your choice of bagel toppings
Adding a beaten egg brushed over the top before baking helps create a shiny, golden-brown crust and gives the toppings something to stick to.
Tips for Making the Best Cottage Cheese Bagels
These easy cottage cheese bagels don’t require special baking skills, but a few simple tips can make a big difference.
Blend the cottage cheese well. For the smoothest texture, blend until the cottage cheese is creamy with no large curds remaining.
Use self-rising flour. Regular all-purpose flour won’t provide the same rise unless you add baking powder and salt.
Don’t overwork the dough. Knead just enough to bring everything together and create a smooth dough. Too much kneading can make the bagels tough.
Use flour sparingly. The dough may be slightly sticky, but adding too much extra flour can change the texture. Add only enough to make the dough manageable.
Pinch the seams firmly. This helps your bagels hold their shape while baking.
Let them cool. It can be tempting to slice into a freshly baked bagel immediately, but allowing it to cool helps the inside set.
Cottage Cheese Bagel Variations
Once you’ve made the basic recipe, experiment with different flavors.
Everything Bagel: Brush with egg wash and sprinkle generously with everything bagel seasoning before baking.
Cheddar Cheese: Add shredded cheddar to the dough or sprinkle some over the tops before baking.
Garlic Parmesan: Sprinkle the bagels with garlic powder, grated Parmesan, and Italian seasoning.
Cinnamon Sugar: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar before baking for a lightly sweet option.
Sesame Seed: Brush with egg wash and add sesame seeds for a classic bagel flavor.
You can even make half the batch savory and half sweet so everyone gets their favorite!
How to Store Cottage Cheese Bagels
These homemade bagels are great for meal prep because you can make a batch and enjoy them over several days.
Refrigerator
Let the bagels cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Because these bagels contain cottage cheese and don’t have the preservatives found in some store-bought bagels, refrigeration is the best option for short-term storage.
Freezer
For longer storage, freeze the bagels for up to 2–3 months for best quality. We recommend slicing the bagels before freezing so you can easily remove and toast individual servings. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much excess air as possible.
Reheating
Reheat your bagels in a toaster or toaster oven until warmed through. You can also warm them briefly in the oven. Toasting helps bring back some of that delicious bagel texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cottage Cheese Bagels
Make a Batch of These Easy High-Protein Bagels
Whether you’re trying to eat more protein, looking for new meal prep breakfast ideas, or simply want to make homemade bagels without the work of a traditional recipe, Kiersten’s cottage cheese bagels are worth trying.
With only two main ingredients, minimal prep time, and endless topping possibilities, they’re an easy way to bring something delicious to your breakfast table.
Make a batch this week, experiment with your favorite toppings, and enjoy having a homemade breakfast ready whenever you need it.
2 Ingredient Cottage Cheese Bagels (High Protein)
Ingredients
- 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 cups self-rising flour plus extra for kneading
- 1 large egg beaten (optional, for brushing)
- Everything bagel seasoning or other toppings optional
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 375°F. Position a rack in the upper third of the oven and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Add the cottage cheese to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Transfer the blended cottage cheese to a medium bowl. Add the self-rising flour and stir until combined and the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl.
- Turn the dough onto a generously floured work surface. Knead 8–10 times, adding a little flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and manageable. It may still be slightly tacky.
- Divide the dough into eight equal portions. Roll each portion into a rope approximately 6–7 inches long. Bring the ends together and pinch firmly to form a bagel.
- Arrange the bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg, if desired, and sprinkle with your favorite seasonings.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the bagels are puffed, golden brown, and cooked through.
- Allow the bagels to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Nutrition
More High Protein Cottage Cheese Recipes to Try
High-Protein Cottage Cheese Roasted Red Pepper Soup Recipe
High-Protein Cottage Cheese Lasagna Bowl
Slow Cooker Turkey Lasagna with Cottage Cheese
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