Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love starting my day with a warm, fresh bagel, especially when that bagel is infused with the creamy sweetness of cottage cheese. These Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels have quickly become one of my favorite breakfast options. The rich, tangy flavor of the cottage cheese makes each bite wonderfully satisfying, while the hint of sweetness pairs perfectly with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Whether I’m enjoying them plain or topped with fresh fruits, these bagels never fail to brighten my morning routine.

Lila Morgan

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:07:21.204Z

When I first decided to experiment with cottage cheese in bagels, I was curious about how the texture would turn out. Much to my delight, the result was a beautifully soft and chewy bagel that retained moisture thanks to the cottage cheese. Adding a touch of sugar while mixing not only enhanced the flavor but also created a delightful crust when baked.

I've found that letting the bagels rest for a few extra minutes after baking allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This trick has transformed my bagels into treats that my family and friends can't resist. Trust me on this—these Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels are a game changer for breakfast!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Deliciously soft texture with a hint of sweetness
  • Perfectly pairs with various toppings like fruits and honey
  • Easy to make, great for breakfast or snacks

Understanding the Ingredients

The main star of this recipe is the cottage cheese, which not only adds a delightful creaminess but also contributes moisture and protein, making these bagels a nutritious breakfast option. When selecting cottage cheese, go for a smooth variety instead of curds for a uniform texture. The sugar enhances the bagels' sweetness while balancing the tangy flavor of the cheese, leading to a well-rounded taste profile. If you prefer a lower sugar content, feel free to reduce the sugar to 1 tablespoon without significant compromise to the overall flavor.

All-purpose flour is the backbone of these bagels, providing structure. For a different texture, consider using whole wheat flour, which may yield a denser bagel, but be aware that you may need to adjust the hydration slightly since whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

Bagel Shaping Techniques

Shaping your bagels properly is key to achieving that traditional bagel look and texture. After dividing the dough into equal parts, roll each piece into a ball. Use your thumb to create a hole in the center, enlarging it until the hole is about 1-2 inches wide. As they bake, the center will close up slightly, creating the perfect bagel shape. If you find the dough too sticky while shaping, dust your hands with a bit of flour to make the process easier.

To ensure uniformity in baking, make sure all your bagels are roughly the same size. This helps them bake evenly and achieve that desirable golden brown color simultaneously. A light dusting of flour on your work surface can help prevent sticking as you shape the dough.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring your baking sheet is ready.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, and sugar until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 6 equal parts and shape each part into a bagel, creating a hole in the center.

Bake the Bagels

Place the bagels on the baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

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Pro Tips

  • For an extra touch, consider topping your bagels with sesame seeds or poppy seeds before baking!

Serving and Enjoying

Once your Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They are delightful on their own, but dress them up with a variety of toppings. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup elevates their flavor, making them a sweet treat. Fresh fruits like berries or banana slices add a refreshing burst alongside the creamy texture of the cottage cheese, creating a mouthwatering breakfast or snack option.

For a twist, try spreading them with a thin layer of nut butter for added protein, or pair them with Greek yogurt for a creamy dip that complements their flavor beautifully. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom mixed into the dough for an additional flavor layer.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These bagels can be made ahead of time and stored for 3-4 days in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just ensure they are completely cooled, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the toaster or under the broiler for a few minutes until warm.

To maintain the bagels' freshness when reheating, I recommend wrapping them in a damp paper towel before microwaving or heating them in the oven with a splash of water. This will keep the bagels from drying out and ensure they remain soft and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works perfectly in this recipe without compromising the texture.

→ How should I store leftover bagels?

Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

These bagels are fantastic with honey, cream cheese, or fresh berries. Get creative with your favorite toppings!

→ Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure your mixing bowl is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.

Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels

I love starting my day with a warm, fresh bagel, especially when that bagel is infused with the creamy sweetness of cottage cheese. These Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels have quickly become one of my favorite breakfast options. The rich, tangy flavor of the cottage cheese makes each bite wonderfully satisfying, while the hint of sweetness pairs perfectly with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Whether I’m enjoying them plain or topped with fresh fruits, these bagels never fail to brighten my morning routine.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Lila Morgan

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 6 bagels

What You'll Need

For the Bagels

  1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 cup cottage cheese
  3. 1 egg
  4. 2 tablespoons sugar
  5. 1 teaspoon baking powder
  6. 1/2 teaspoon salt
  7. 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring your baking sheet is ready.

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, and sugar until smooth.

Step 03

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.

Step 04

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined.

Step 05

Divide the dough into 6 equal parts and shape each part into a bagel, creating a hole in the center.

Step 06

Place the bagels on the baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Extra Tips

  1. For an extra touch, consider topping your bagels with sesame seeds or poppy seeds before baking!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Total Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 8g