These 3-ingredient cottage cheese bagels are super easy and fun to make! Just mix cottage cheese, flour, and baking powder, then shape them into bagels and bake.
Honestly, I love how quick these bagels are! They make for a tasty breakfast or snack. Top them with cream cheese, and you’re ready to enjoy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: You can use full-fat for creaminess or low-fat for a lighter option. For a vegan alternative, try silken tofu blended until smooth. This will mimic the texture while keeping the bagels moist.
Self-Rising Flour: If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by mixing 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt. This works great in achieving that perfect rise!
Egg: The egg helps bind the dough. If you’re looking for an egg-free option, a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) works well too. It adds nutrients and aids in binding the dough.
Toppings: While sesame seeds and everything bagel seasoning are tasty options, feel free to get creative! Try poppy seeds, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of cheese for a different flavor twist.
How Do I Shape Bagels Without Making a Mess?
Shaping the bagels can be a bit tricky, but with these simple tips, you’ll have beautiful shapes in no time! Start with a lightly floured surface and your hands to keep the dough from sticking.
- Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Lightly flour your hands before handling it.
- Shape each part into a ball, then use your finger to poke a hole through the center.
- Gently stretch the hole to make it larger, but be careful not to tear the dough.
- Lightly flour your hands between shapes if needed to prevent sticking.
Remember, practice makes perfect! The more you shape, the easier it becomes.
How to Make 3-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full fat or low fat, well drained)
- 1 cup self-rising flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 large egg
Optional Toppings:
- Sesame seeds
- Everything bagel seasoning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for baking. In total, set aside about 30 minutes to enjoy freshly baked bagels right at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the bagels from sticking.
2. Mix the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the well-drained cottage cheese, self-rising flour, and egg. Use a fork or a mixing spoon to blend everything together until a dough forms. The dough will be a little sticky yet firm enough to handle, so don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth!
3. Shape the Bagels:
Lightly flour your hands and your work surface to prevent sticking. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball. Then, poke a hole through the center of each ball using your finger and gently stretch it to create a bagel shape. Be careful not to tear the dough.
4. Bake the Bagels:
Place the shaped bagels onto your prepared baking sheet. If you want, you can brush the top lightly with water or an egg wash to help the toppings stick. Sprinkle sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top for added flavor!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Enjoy them plain or with your favorite spread, and savor the deliciousness!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cottage cheese works perfectly in this recipe and still results in tasty bagels. Just ensure it’s well-drained to maintain the right dough consistency.
What Can I Substitute for Self-Rising Flour?
If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can easily make your own by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt. This will provide the necessary rise for your bagels!
How Should I Store Leftover Bagels?
To keep leftover bagels fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in a zip-top freezer bag and freeze for up to a month. Just thaw and warm them up when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Dough?
Definitely! You can mix in ingredients like chopped herbs, cheese, or garlic powder for extra flavor in your bagels. Just be mindful not to add too much moisture to the dough, or its consistency will change.
