Protein Bagels Made With Cottage Cheese
Highlighted under: Balanced Kitchen
I love starting my day with these protein-packed bagels made with cottage cheese. They have quickly become a favorite in my household. The combination of high protein from the cottage cheese and the chewy texture makes these bagels not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. I enjoy them topped with my favorite spreads or even just a drizzle of honey. Making them is straightforward, and I've found that they require minimal ingredients, which is always a bonus in my busy mornings.
When I first tried making protein bagels with cottage cheese, I was amazed at how easy they were to prepare. Blending cottage cheese into the dough creates a wonderfully moist bagel that's packed with protein. I've experimented with different toppings like everything bagel seasoning, and each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
What I love about these bagels is their versatility. I often make a batch at the beginning of the week, which not only saves time but also means I have a healthy breakfast option ready to go. Trust me, once you try these, you'll never look at bagels the same way!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Packed with protein for a hearty breakfast
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Great for meal prep and on-the-go snacks
Understanding the Ingredients
The key to these protein bagels lies in the cottage cheese. Not only does it provide a creamy texture, but it also packs a whopping amount of protein, making these bagels a wholesome way to start your day. When selecting cottage cheese, opt for a low-fat variety if you're looking to keep things light. It’s essential to blend it thoroughly with the eggs to ensure that the batter is smooth and consistent, which will contribute to the bagels’ chewy texture.
Almond flour is another crucial ingredient here. It gives the bagels a nutty flavor and keeps them gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. If you don't have almond flour on hand, you can substitute with oat flour or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. However, the texture might differ slightly — almond flour contributes a moist, dense feel, which complements the chewy effect. Make sure to sift it to avoid lumps, ensuring an even dough.
Shaping and Baking Tips
When shaping the bagels, it’s helpful to have slightly damp hands to prevent the dough from sticking. Form each portion into a ring carefully, making sure the hole in the center is wide enough, as it will shrink slightly during baking. If you find that the dough is too sticky to shape, you can add a sprinkle of almond flour to help manage it without compromising the consistency. This extra step will ensure that your bagels are uniform and bake evenly.
For the best results while baking, consider using a baking stone if available. This tool can help maintain consistent heat and produce a better crust. Keep an eye on the bagels as they bake—look for a golden-brown color and a slightly firm texture when pressed lightly. If needed, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning. This attention to detail will elevate the final product.
Ingredients
For the Bagels
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
These ingredients come together to create a dough that is both soft and easy to work with!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Blend the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, and honey (if using). Mix until well combined.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the almond flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Gradually stir this mixture into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
Shape the Bagels
Divide the dough into eight equal portions and shape each portion into a bagel by forming a ring with a hole in the center.
Bake
Place the shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Allow the bagels to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite toppings!
These bagels are delicious warm and can be stored in an airtight container for several days!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding chopped herbs, cheese, or seeds to the dough before shaping your bagels.
Meal Prep and Storage
These protein bagels are fantastic for meal prep. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Place the cooled bagels in a freezer-safe bag and label them with the date. They’ll stay fresh for about three months. To enjoy them later, you can toast them straight from the freezer or heat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
If you're preparing for a week of breakfasts, try customizing your toppings ahead of time, too. I often make individual bagel sandwiches with avocado and a poached egg, or simply spread on cream cheese or nut butter. This way, I can grab-and-go on those hectic mornings without losing out on nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
These bagels are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. You can enjoy them on their own with a drizzle of honey or a smear of your favorite nut butter for a quick snack that satisfies. If you'd like something savory, consider topping them with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and capers for a delicious brunch treat. You can also sprinkle them with everything bagel seasoning before baking to add an extra flavor kick.
For a flavor twist, try incorporating different herbs or spices into the dough. Finely chopped fresh herbs like chives or dill can infuse a fresh taste, while spices like onion powder can enhance the savory notes. Don't hesitate to experiment with mix-ins based on what you have available; the possibilities for these protein bagels are limited only by your imagination!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use regular flour or a gluten-free blend, but the texture may vary.
→ How should I store the bagels?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
→ Can I make these bagels vegan?
To make them vegan, try substituting the eggs with a flaxseed meal or applesauce, but the texture may change slightly.
→ What toppings do you recommend?
Some popular toppings include cream cheese, smoked salmon, avocado, or just a sprinkle of your favorite seeds.
Protein Bagels Made With Cottage Cheese
I love starting my day with these protein-packed bagels made with cottage cheese. They have quickly become a favorite in my household. The combination of high protein from the cottage cheese and the chewy texture makes these bagels not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. I enjoy them topped with my favorite spreads or even just a drizzle of honey. Making them is straightforward, and I've found that they require minimal ingredients, which is always a bonus in my busy mornings.
Created by: Elara Kensington
Recipe Type: Balanced Kitchen
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 8 bagels
What You'll Need
For the Bagels
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, and honey (if using). Mix until well combined.
In a separate bowl, combine the almond flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Gradually stir this mixture into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
Divide the dough into eight equal portions and shape each portion into a bagel by forming a ring with a hole in the center.
Place the shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow the bagels to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite toppings!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding chopped herbs, cheese, or seeds to the dough before shaping your bagels.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 11g