These Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels are a fun twist on a classic! Made with cottage cheese and almond flour, they are soft, chewy, and perfect for a low-carb snack or breakfast.
Who knew bagels could be keto-friendly? I love to top mine with a bit of cream cheese or avocado—so tasty! Plus, whipping these up is super easy, making them a great choice for busy mornings.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese adds richness and moisture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, low-fat cottage cheese works too. Just know that the texture might be slightly different.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella gives a stretchy, cheesy pull. You can mix it with cheddar for a bolder flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan mozzarella, but check its melting properties first!
Almond Flour: This is key for a low-carb base. If you have nut allergies, coconut flour can work too, but you’ll use much less—about a quarter of the almond flour called for. Just remember to increase the eggs to help bind it all together.
Baking Powder: It helps your bagels rise and become fluffy. If you don’t have it, try a 1/4 tsp of baking soda plus 1/2 tsp of vinegar for a DIY substitute.
Garlic and Onion Powder: Optional, but they bring great flavor. You can leave them out if you prefer a mild taste, or use fresh minced garlic and onions if you want more oomph!
How Do I Achieve the Right Dough Consistency?
Getting the dough just right can be tricky, but it’s crucial. You want a sticky but manageable consistency. If it feels too wet, sprinkle in a bit more almond flour until you can handle it.
- Start by blending melted cheese and cottage cheese until smooth.
- Mix the dry ingredients in a separate bowl, then add to the cheese mix.
- When combining, use your hands to knead gently, but don’t overdo it; a bit of stickiness is okay.
A good tip is to wet your hands slightly when shaping the bagels so the dough doesn’t stick to you as much. This technique will help you form nice bagels without making too much of a mess.
How to Make Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full fat)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar)
- 3/4 cup almond flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
For Topping:
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning
For Cooking:
- Butter or olive oil for frying (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-18 minutes to bake, so in total, you’ll spend about 30 minutes from start to finish. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the bagels from sticking and help them bake evenly.
2. Melt the Cheese:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese and cottage cheese. Heat in the microwave for about 1 minute, or until the cheese is melted and soft. Stir it well until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk the 2 large eggs until they are well beaten. Then add the almond flour, baking powder, garlic powder (if using), onion powder (if using), and salt. Mix everything together until you have a well-combined mixture.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, pour the melted cheese-cottage cheese mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and eggs. Mix thoroughly until you have a sticky dough. If the dough is too sticky, don’t hesitate to use your hands to knead it a bit until it comes together.
5. Form the Bagels:
Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball, then gently poke a hole through the center of each ball with your finger to create a bagel shape. Place each bagel on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the tops of the bagels with sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning for that extra flavor.
7. Bake the Bagels:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the bagels are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary slightly.
8. Optional Frying:
If you want a crispier crust, you can pan-fry the bagels in a little butter or olive oil for 1-2 minutes per side after baking. They’ll get a lovely golden color!
9. Cool and Serve:
Allow the bagels to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. They are delicious on their own or can be enjoyed with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or your favorite keto-friendly spread. Enjoy your tasty bagels!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese Instead?
Yes, you can! Low-fat cottage cheese will work, but the bagels may be a bit less rich and moist compared to using full-fat cottage cheese. Just make sure to blend it well to avoid lumps.
How Do I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them, wrapped tightly, for up to a month. To reheat, simply thaw and warm them in the oven or toaster for a few minutes.
Can I Add Other Flavorings or Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped herbs like chives or dill, or stir in diced jalapeños or cheese for extra flavor. Just ensure that any additional ingredients don’t alter the dough’s consistency too much.
Do I Need to Use a Specific Type of Almond Flour?
No specific brand is required, but it’s best to use blanched almond flour for a finer texture that mimics traditional bagels more closely. Avoid almond meal, as it’s coarser and will change the texture of your bagels.
