Gluten Free Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe To Make

Cottage cheese bagels recipe is the kind of simple, protein-packed breakfast or snack that makes life in the kitchen easier—and tastier. Whether you’re hustling through a busy weekday morning or prepping meals for the week, these gluten-free bagels are a game-changer. With just three core ingredients, they’re fluffy on the inside, crisp on the outside, and incredibly satisfying.

As a mom, home cook, and flavor chaser, I’ve fallen head-over-heels for this low-fuss, high-protein trend. These bagels can be made in your oven or air fryer, and they don’t need any rising time, yeast, or special techniques. Trust me, if you can roll dough into a rope and connect the ends, you’re halfway to bagel bliss.

Looking for inspiration? Try my cottage cheese chips recipe next if you’re loving the cottage cheese trend. Now, let’s explore why these bagels are the current breakfast obsession and what makes them stand out from the pack.

Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe – The Best 3-Ingredient Gluten-Free Bagels

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• Author: Katie Parker
• Total Time: 35 mins
• Yield: 4 bagels 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Cottage cheese bagels recipe that’s high-protein, gluten-free, and easy to make with 3 ingredients. Perfect for breakfast or snacks.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup self-rising flour (Note 1)
• 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese (Note 2)
• 1 large egg beaten, for egg wash
• Toppings: sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, shredded asiago cheese, or poppy seeds

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven and prepare your pan
Set your oven to 375°F and move the rack to the top position for even browning. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

2. Blend the cottage cheese
Add the full-fat cottage cheese to a blender or food processor. Blend on high until completely smooth, pausing to scrape down the sides if needed. A silky texture here ensures your dough will mix evenly.

3. Mix in the flour and knead the dough
Transfer the blended cottage cheese into a mixing bowl and stir in the flour. Mix until a sticky dough begins to form and pulls away from the bowl. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead 8–10 times, adding flour as needed until the dough becomes soft, smooth, and easy to handle—not sticky.

4. Divide, shape, and season
Form the dough into a single ball, then divide it into 4 equal portions (each should weigh about 80g if you want precision). Roll each piece into a rope about 6 to 7 inches long, then shape into a circle and pinch the ends together to seal.

 

Brush the tops of each bagel with a beaten egg to help with browning. Add your favorite toppings—everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or shredded cheese all work great!

Baking Option

Place the shaped bagels on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and puffed. Let them cool for 15 minutes before slicing or serving.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Air Fryer Option

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for about 5 minutes. Spray the basket with a bit of nonstick spray, then place the shaped bagels inside, spacing them out for airflow. Air fry for 12–14 minutes, or until golden and cooked through in the center.

Notes

Gluten-Free Flour:
To make these bagels gluten-free, use 1 cup of a high-quality gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. I had great results using King Arthur’s. To mimic self-rising flour, mix in 1 teaspoon of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt.

Cottage Cheese Tips:
Full-fat cottage cheese works best for texture and richness. Keep in mind, the moisture level can vary between brands, which may affect how much flour you need. For consistently great dough, I prefer Good Culture Full Fat Cottage Cheese.

Using Regular Flour:
No self-rising flour? No problem. Just use all-purpose flour and follow the same baking powder and salt additions used in the gluten-free version to get the same lift.

Greek Yogurt Option:
You can substitute cottage cheese with plain Greek yogurt, and the recipe still works beautifully! The texture and protein levels are slightly different but equally satisfying.

 

Managing Sticky Dough:
If your dough feels too sticky to handle, don’t worry. It’s often due to the cottage cheese’s moisture or how the flour was measured. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy, or weigh the flour for best results. Add more flour one tablespoon at a time while kneading until the dough feels smooth and manageable.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins
• Category: Breakfast, Snack, Bread
• Method: Baking, Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1bagel
• Calories: 180kcal
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 182mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0.01g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

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Why Cottage Cheese Bagels Are Trending

The Rise of High-Protein Breakfast Options

Americans are always on the lookout for easy ways to get more protein without extra hassle. Enter: cottage cheese. Once pigeonholed as a “diet” food, it’s now the poster child of creative breakfasts—especially for families and fitness-minded folks alike. TikTok has taken notice, and with that viral attention comes innovation. We’ve seen cottage cheese pancakes, toast, eggs, dips… and yes, even these chewy, golden cottage cheese bagels.

So why the sudden shift? The answer is simple: cottage cheese is naturally high in protein (over 11g per serving in this recipe), low in sugar, and surprisingly versatile. It blends beautifully into dough, adding moisture, structure, and that signature tang without overpowering.

Check out how people are using high-protein ingredients like in our best natural Zepbound recipe, a great example of functional foods done right.

Cottage Cheese: From Diet Staple to Star Ingredient

For decades, cottage cheese sat in the fridge of the calorie-conscious. But today? It’s winning the hearts of recipe developers, moms, gym-goers, and even chefs. Its creamy texture and mild taste make it a perfect addition to everything from pasta to desserts. But bagels? That’s where cottage cheese really shines.

What makes this cottage cheese bagels recipe unique is the marriage of simplicity and nutrition. You’re not just making bread—you’re crafting a better bite for your body. Plus, it’s incredibly cost-effective, especially for families cooking in bulk.

And if you’re curious about other creative ways to use cottage cheese, don’t miss our blue salt trick recipe—another viral trend that’s winning fans.

What Makes This Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe So Special?

Just 3 Ingredients, Endless Possibilities

This cottage cheese bagels recipe is all about keeping things simple without sacrificing flavor or texture. You’ll only need:

• Full-fat cottage cheese
• A ready-to-go flour blend, or a gluten-free mix paired with baking powder for the same fluffy lift.
• A beaten egg (for that golden crust)

That’s it. Skip the yeast, forget the waiting, and leave the stand mixer in the cabinet—this dough comes together in minutes, by hand.

You just mix, knead, shape, and bake—or air fry.

This simplicity makes it ideal for:

• Hectic mornings call for something nourishing that doesn’t take forever to make.
• Afternoon snack attacks? These soft, chewy bagels hit the spot when your little ones ask for “something bread-like.”
• Meal preppers who want to freeze-and-toast bagels for the week ahead

You’ll be amazed at how the cottage cheese melts seamlessly into the dough, giving the bagels a moist, chewy interior that rivals even the best bakery version.

Discover great ideas like our breve coffee to pair with your fresh-baked bagels for a satisfying morning ritual.

Oven vs Air Fryer: Which Method Wins?

While both methods produce fantastic results, your choice depends on time and texture preferences.

Health Benefits of Using Cottage Cheese in Bagels

Protein Power: Why Cottage Cheese Beats Greek Yogurt

Both cottage cheese and Greek yogurt are protein-rich, but if you compare them side-by-side in this recipe, cottage cheese wins for both nutrition and texture. A single serving of these bagels made with full-fat cottage cheese packs in 11 grams of protein—more than your average store-bought bagel.

That extra protein makes these a smart option for:

• Staying full longer throughout the morning
• Fueling kids before school or sports
• Supporting muscle repair after workouts

Not to mention, cottage cheese blends better into the dough when puréed, giving your bagels a smooth, tender bite without any tangy aftertaste. It’s the kind of wholesome trick that makes a big difference in how you feel after breakfast.

Discover great ideas like the natural Mounjaro recipe that also focus on nourishing ingredients with maximum impact.

Low-Fat, High-Nutrient: Cottage Cheese vs Cream Cheese

Let’s settle it: Is cottage cheese healthier than cream cheese? The short answer is—absolutely.

Gluten-Free Bagel Basics with Cottage Cheese

Best Gluten-Free Flour Mixes to Use

If you’re making a gluten-free version of this cottage cheese bagels recipe, flour choice matters. The right blend gives you soft, chewy bagels without dryness or crumbling. I tested this recipe using King Arthur’s gluten-free flour (with xanthan gum) and added baking powder and kosher salt to create that self-rising effect. The result? Still soft, still golden—just a little denser than traditional.

Here’s a reliable ratio:

• 1 cup gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Skip almond or coconut flour for this dough—they soak up liquid like a sponge and can turn your bagels dry and crumbly. Stick with well-rounded blends that are made for baking.

Need another gluten-free-friendly idea? Looking for a gluten-free boost? Try our pink salt trick—an inventive wellness recipe loaded with trace minerals and natural goodness.

How Cottage Cheese Impacts Dough Texture

Here’s where this cottage cheese bagels recipe really shines—cottage cheese gives the dough a soft, pliable feel that’s easy to work with, even without gluten. When you blend the cheese before mixing it into the flour, it acts like a creamy, protein-packed binder. This helps your dough stick together without being overly sticky or wet.

The final bake is tender and springy, with just enough chew. It’s also not overly “dairy” in flavor, which means you can go sweet or savory with toppings—without tasting like you’re eating a cheese puff.

If you’re worried about achieving that golden finish on a gluten-free dough, an egg wash brushed over the top does the trick beautifully.

Step-by-Step Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe (With Tips)

Prepping the Ingredients Right

Before you dive into this cottage cheese bagels recipe, let’s make sure everything is prepped and ready. You’ll need:

• 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese – blended until silky smooth
• 1 cup self-rising flour – or use a gluten-free mix with baking powder
• 1 large egg – for brushing the tops

Blend the cottage cheese in a food processor or blender. This creates a creamy base that mixes easily into the flour. If you’re using a gluten-free flour blend, be sure to add 2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt to mimic self-rising flour.

Don’t forget: proper measuring matters. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour or weigh it out to avoid overly sticky dough.

Kneading, Shaping & Baking to Perfection

Here’s how this cottage cheese bagels recipe turns three ingredients into something magical:

1. Combine the blended cottage cheese and flour in a large bowl. Mix until the dough pulls away from the sides and starts forming a soft ball.
2. Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface—just 8 to 10 turns is enough. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour a tablespoon at a time.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each one into a rope about 6 to 7 inches long, then pinch the ends together to form a classic bagel ring.
4. Brush the tops with egg wash. This adds shine and helps your toppings stick. Add your favorite: everything bagel seasoning, sesame, shredded cheese, or even a pinch of sea salt.
5. Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes on the top rack until golden and puffed. Or, for a quicker option, air fry at 350°F for 12–14 minutes.

Need a visual? This process is similar to making dough for our ocean love colada recipe—smooth, simple, and satisfying from start to finish.

Success Tip: Slice the bagels most of the way through before freezing. That way, you can pop them straight into the toaster without defrosting.

Want a high-protein snack option that stores well? This cottage cheese bagels recipe delivers both convenience and nutrition without compromising taste.

Customizing Your Cottage Cheese Bagels

Sweet vs Savory Bagel Toppings

One of the best parts about this cottage cheese bagels recipe is how flexible it is. Once you master the basic dough, you can dress these bagels up or down depending on your cravings. Whether you’re into bold, savory flavors or light, sweet finishes, these bagels play well with everything.

Here are some tried-and-true topping ideas:

Savory Toppings

• Everything bagel seasoning
• Sea salt and cracked pepper
• Asiago or shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme
• Garlic butter and Parmesan

Sweet Toppings

• A smear of cream cheese with honey
• Peanut butter and banana slices
• Greek yogurt with berries
• Almond butter and cinnamon
• Strawberry chia jam

You can even split a fresh, warm bagel from this cottage cheese bagels recipe and toast it for a slightly crisp base before adding toppings. The cottage cheese base gives a subtle richness without overpowering the toppings—sweet or savory.

Sandwich Fillings, Spreads & Flavor Boosters

Another reason we keep coming back to this cottage cheese bagels recipe? Sandwiches. These bagels make a high-protein, gluten-free base for all your favorite sandwich fillings.

Here are some no-fail combos:

• Smoked salmon, cucumber, and Boursin cheese
• Turkey, spinach, and garlic aioli
• Tuna salad and sliced tomato
• Roasted vegetables with hummus
• Chicken salad with fresh dill and red onion

You can even toast and top them with scrambled eggs for a protein-packed breakfast sandwich that holds up till lunch. Thanks to the high-protein content of this cottage cheese bagels recipe, you’re not just satisfying hunger—you’re fueling your day.

Looking for more protein-packed ideas? Try our cake batter protein shake and keep those energy levels steady all morning.

And remember, the beauty of this cottage cheese bagels recipe is in how easily it adapts. Bake a batch plain, freeze them, then reheat and customize every single time. It’s like a fresh bagel experience every morning—only faster and healthier.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips

Keep Bagels Fresh Longer

Once you’ve made a batch of these high-protein bagels, you’ll want to make them last. The great news? This cottage cheese bagels recipe holds up well at room temperature for a few days—without going stale.

To store them properly:

• Let the bagels cool fully before storing. Trapping heat can create moisture that makes them soggy.
• Keep your bagels fresh by placing them in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature.
• Avoid the refrigerator—cold temps can dry them out faster.

They’ll stay soft and flavorful for about 3–4 days. If you’re planning ahead, this cottage cheese bagels recipe is also freezer-friendly, which makes it perfect for meal prepping.

How to Freeze and Toast Straight from the Freezer

The beauty of this cottage cheese bagels recipe is that it was practically made for freezing. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Pre-slice the bagels most of the way before freezing so they’re ready to pop straight into the toaster—no thawing needed. This makes toasting a breeze.
2. Individually wrap bagels in parchment or wax paper before tucking them into a freezer-friendly storage bag.
3. Label and freeze for up to 4 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy:

• Toss a frozen bagel right into your toaster or toaster oven—no need to defrost.
• Toast on medium-high until golden and warmed through.
• Add your favorite toppings or sandwich fixings for a quick and delicious meal.

Thanks to the dense texture and protein-rich dough of this cottage cheese bagels recipe, they don’t become dry or crumbly after freezing like some other gluten-free bakes do.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Cottage Cheese Bagels

The Sticky Dough Problem (and Fixes)

If your dough turns out too sticky while following this cottage cheese bagels recipe, don’t panic—it’s a common issue and easily fixable. Different brands of cottage cheese contain varying amounts of moisture, which can influence how your dough feels and behaves. Some are wetter than others, which means your dough might need just a little extra flour to come together.

Here’s how to fix it:

• Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of flour at a time while kneading
• Use a floured surface and lightly coat your hands
• Don’t overmix—the dough should feel soft and slightly tacky, not wet

Sticky dough is one of the top issues people run into when trying this cottage cheese bagels recipe, but it’s also the easiest to solve.

Avoiding Dryness in Gluten-Free Bakes

Dry, crumbly bagels are another pitfall—especially when working with gluten-free flour. If your bagels come out tough or fall apart, chances are the flour blend was too absorbent or the dough was overworked.

To avoid this in your cottage cheese bagels recipe:

• Always use a gluten-free flour with xanthan gum for better binding
• Don’t substitute with coconut or almond flour—those soak up way too much moisture
• Puree the cottage cheese until creamy to ensure your dough turns out even and easy to handle.

Another trick? Give the bagels a quick egg white glaze to lock in moisture and add a glossy finish, then bake them on the upper rack for that perfect golden top.

Whether you’re using standard or gluten-free ingredients, this cottage cheese bagels recipe performs beautifully with a few simple tweaks to bring out that soft, golden finish every time.

Cottage Cheese Recipes Worth Trying Next

Cottage Cheese Chips, Toast & Pancakes

If you’ve fallen in love with this cottage cheese bagels recipe, you’re definitely not alone—and the cottage cheese fun doesn’t have to stop here. Once you’ve seen how creamy and versatile cottage cheese can be, it’s time to experiment with other high-protein, low-fuss recipes.

Here are some easy wins you’ll love:

• Cottage cheese chips – Light, crunchy, and packed with protein in every bite. Try baking or air-frying them until golden.
• Cottage cheese toast – Swap avocado for cottage cheese and top with fresh berries, honey, or even a fried egg.
• Cottage cheese pancakes – Light, fluffy, and protein-rich. Great for breakfast or brunch.

All of these recipes share the same strengths as this cottage cheese bagels recipe: minimal ingredients, maximum impact.

Looking for inspiration? Try pairing your cottage cheese creations with drinks like our breve coffee or use your leftovers in savory bowls topped with avocado and tomatoes.

Creative Ideas with Cottage Cheese Bowls

Cottage cheese bowls have become a major part of my weekly rotation—especially since discovering the magic of blending cottage cheese into everything from dips to spreads. If you enjoyed this cottage cheese bagels recipe, these ideas will keep your meals interesting and full of variety:

• Create a savory cottage cheese bowl by adding cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, a splash of balsamic glaze, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Stir everything bagel seasoning into cottage cheese and use it as a bold, flavorful spread on wraps or veggie-loaded sandwiches.
• Mix cottage cheese with Greek yogurt to whip up a smooth, tangy dip ideal for crisp veggies, crackers, or homemade bagel chips.
• Build a breakfast powerhouse by layering cottage cheese with juicy berries, a sprinkle of chia seeds, and crunchy granola.

Once you’ve nailed this cottage cheese bagels recipe, you’ll find yourself adding cottage cheese to all kinds of meals—and wondering how you ever lived without it.

Conclusion: Why These Cottage Cheese Bagels Deserve a Spot in Your Weekly Meal Plan

If you’ve been searching for a no-fuss, high-protein breakfast or snack that fits your real life, this cottage cheese bagels recipe checks every box. It’s gluten-free friendly, made with only three ingredients, and doesn’t require any yeast, rising, or fancy techniques.

From busy weekday mornings to laid-back weekend brunches, these bagels adapt to your needs. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven, pulled from the freezer, or loaded with your favorite toppings, the simplicity and satisfaction of this cottage cheese bagels recipe is hard to beat.

So go ahead—blend, roll, and bake your way into a new breakfast favorite. And if you’re loving the cottage cheese trend, don’t miss our cottage cheese chips recipe or breve coffee pairing ideas to round out your routine.

Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest so you can revisit it any time you need a quick, protein-rich idea. It’s a keeper you’ll come back to again and again!

FAQs About Cottage Cheese Bagels