Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels

Name: Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1 large egg; Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels for breakfast or a light snack. These bagels are incredibly soft and have a slight sweetness that sets them apart from traditional bagels. The cottage cheese not only adds moisture but also a delightful richness that pairs beautifully with any toppings. I often enjoy them with a quick smear of cream cheese or fresh fruit. If you want a satisfying yet unique twist on bagels, this recipe is just what you need!

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:25:17.615Z

When I first experimented with incorporating cottage cheese into bagels, I was amazed by the outcome! The dough became soft and airy, while the flavor transformed into something wonderfully unique. I’ve found that the key is in the mixing process: be gentle yet thorough to maintain airiness without overworking the dough.

Another tip I discovered is to let the dough rest before shaping. This step allows the gluten to relax, making shaping easier. I've also enjoyed playing around with different toppings, from sesame seeds to a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, adding layers of flavor to these delightful bagels!

        Why You'll Love These Bagels
        Soft and fluffy texture that impresses every time
Unique sweetness that sets them apart from regular bagels
Versatile for both savory and sweet toppings

      

Mastering the Dough

Achieving the perfect dough consistency is crucial for your Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels. When mixing the dry ingredients, ensure there are no lumps, as they can affect the bagel's texture. The addition of baking powder and baking soda provides the necessary lift, helping the bagels achieve that fluffy yet sturdy structure. You want the dough to be soft but not too sticky; if it's sticking to your hands, sprinkle a little more flour as you knead.

Kneading the dough gently is key. Over-kneading can lead to tough bagels, while under-kneading may prevent them from holding their shape. Knead until the dough is just combined and smooth, typically about one minute. After dividing the dough into pieces, ensure that they are roughly equal; this will help them bake evenly, leading to consistent results.

Baking Tips for Perfection

When shaping your bagels, make the hole wide enough so it doesn't close up during baking. I usually use my fingers to gently stretch the dough, ensuring the hole is at least an inch in diameter. This technique not only contributes to the aesthetic but also enhances the bagel's texture, allowing it to bake through evenly without becoming dry or overly chewy.

Keeping an eye on your bagels in the oven is important. Bake until they are golden brown, which should take about 20-25 minutes. If you notice your bagels starting to brown too quickly, you can cover them loosely with foil for the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning. This ensures a beautifully baked exterior while allowing the insides to remain moist.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients needed to make these delicious Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels.

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cottage cheese
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 large egg
Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you'll be set to begin making these delightful bagels.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels from scratch.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese and egg until smooth. Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for a minute. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a bagel, making a hole in the center with your finger.

Bake

Place the shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Let the bagels cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them warm or toasted with your favorite spread!

After baking, enjoy your freshly made Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels any time of the day!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding herbs or spices to the dough. You can also experiment with different toppings to customize each batch to your liking.

Flavor Variations

While the sweetness from the sugar is delightful on its own, consider incorporating flavored extracts into the dough. A dash of vanilla extract can enhance the sweetness and make each bite even more enjoyable. Additionally, you can fold in some dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a burst of sweetness that pairs well with cottage cheese's creamy profile, transforming your bagels into a treat.

For a savory twist, swap the sugar for herbs and cheese. Adding grated cheddar cheese and dried herbs like rosemary provides a wonderful contrast to the cottage cheese, resulting in a bagel that can be enjoyed with savory spreads or dips. Experimenting with flavors allows you to personalize the recipe to your taste preferences.

Storage and Reheating

These Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored if you have leftovers. Let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container to avoid becoming soggy. Stored properly, they can last up to three days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months.

To reheat, simply pop your frozen bagels in the toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through. They can also be microwaved for 30-45 seconds, but this method might not maintain their crispiness. However, toasting after microwaving can quickly revive their original texture, ensuring you enjoy a warm, comforting bagel.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works fine and will still yield delicious bagels.

→ How long can I store the bagels?

They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just ensure they're cooled completely before placing them in a freezer bag.

→ What are some good toppings for these bagels?

You can enjoy them with cream cheese, jam, honey, or even avocado for a savory option!