Healthy Bagels with Cottage Cheese

Name: Healthy Bagels with Cottage Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups whole wheat flour; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup water; 1 egg (for egg wash); Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)

Highlighted under: Light & Wholesome

I love making these Healthy Bagels with Cottage Cheese because they offer a deliciously wholesome start to my day. The combination of cottage cheese and whole grain flour creates a moist and flavorful bagel that's surprisingly easy to make. I appreciate how versatile they are; I can top them with my favorite spreads or add some fresh veggies for a filling snack. Plus, the simple ingredients mean I can whip these up anytime without feeling guilty about my health.

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-20T04:01:13.596Z

One weekend, I decided to experiment with making my own bagels. After several attempts, I finally landed on a recipe that combines cottage cheese and whole wheat flour. To my surprise, the resulting bagels were soft, chewy, and packed with nutrients. I love how the cottage cheese provides a protein boost and adds moisture without overloading on calories.

Another key to these bagels is allowing them to rest in boiling water before baking. This step ensures they get that authentic chewy crust while remaining light on the inside. I enjoy making these on Sunday mornings and savoring them throughout the week.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious ingredients that nourish without the guilt
Easily customizable with toppings for any taste
Perfectly chewy texture that rivals store-bought bagels

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is the star ingredient in these healthy bagels, adding moisture and protein without compromising flavor. Its creamy texture helps bind the dough, resulting in a soft interior and a satisfying chew. When selecting cottage cheese, opt for low-fat varieties to keep the calorie count down while still enjoying the nutritional benefits. The curds melt slightly during baking, creating a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the chewy dough.

One might wonder if the type of cottage cheese makes a difference; I find that using small-curd cottage cheese yields the best results for this recipe. Large curds can create uneven textures in the bagels, making them less enjoyable to eat. Additionally, feel free to experiment with flavored cottage cheeses for an added twist, but make sure they pair well with your desired toppings.

Perfecting Bagel Shape and Texture

Shaping the bagels correctly is crucial for achieving that iconic texture. When rolling the dough into balls, ensure you don't overwork it; a gentle touch will keep the bagels light and airy. Poking a hole through the center can be done with your finger or a wooden spoon handle; just be careful not to create too large an opening, as this can affect the final shape during boiling and baking.

The boiling step is equally important; it helps develop the bagel's crust and chewy texture. Aim to boil them for 1 minute on each side. If you notice that they’re not maintaining their shape during boiling, you might need to let the dough rest a bit longer before shaping next time. Keep an eye on them, as over-boiling can lead to a gummy texture, which we want to avoid.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup cottage cheese
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup water
1 egg (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)

Mix all the ingredients well before shaping the bagels.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, cottage cheese, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add water until a dough forms.

Shape the bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal parts. Roll each part into a ball and then poke a hole through the center with your finger to form a bagel shape.

Boil the bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Boil the bagels in batches for about 1 minute on each side, then remove and place on the baking sheet.

Egg wash and bake

Beat the egg and brush it over the bagels. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Allow to cool slightly before enjoying!

Pro Tips

Ensure you measure the flour accurately for the best texture. You can also add herbs into the dough for extra flavor.

Topping Options

One of the most delightful aspects of these healthy bagels is how customizable they are. After brushing with the egg wash, consider adding a mix of toppings to satisfy any craving. Try classic toppings like sesame seeds or poppy seeds for a traditional touch, or go bold with everything bagel seasoning for an explosion of flavor. It’s a simple way to elevate your bagel game and cater to different palates.

For a sweet twist, you can mix cinnamon and sugar into the egg wash, creating a lovely glaze that pairs perfectly with cream cheese or a fruit spread. Don't hesitate to think outside the box—consider nutritional toppings like chia seeds or sunflower seeds, which add extra crunch and health benefits. The world is your oyster when it comes to topping these bagels!

Storing and Reheating

Once your healthy bagels are baked to golden perfection, let them cool completely on a wire rack. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or consider freezing them for longer storage. To freeze, wrap each bagel in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can last up to three months without losing flavor or texture.

When you're ready to enjoy a bagel, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. For a freshly baked experience, pop it in a toaster or under the broiler for a few minutes until it’s warmed through and crisped up again. This method revitalizes their chewy texture, making them just as delightful as when they came out of the oven.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular flour instead of whole wheat?

Yes, but the texture and nutritional value will change. Whole wheat flour offers more fiber.

→ How can I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I add ingredients like cheese or onions?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in shredded cheese or finely chopped onions to the dough for added flavor.

→ How do I reheat the bagels?

You can toast them directly from the freezer or warm them in the microwave for about 20 seconds.