Sunshine Cottage Cheese Bagels

Name: Sunshine Cottage Cheese Bagels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cottage cheese; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 cup water; 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Creative Sweet Recipe Ideas

I absolutely love making Sunshine Cottage Cheese Bagels! There’s something irresistibly delightful about the way they combine the creamy texture of cottage cheese with the wholesome flavor of bagels. Each bite is a perfect balance of savory and slightly tangy goodness. It’s a versatile recipe; I enjoy them for breakfast, a snack, or even as a light dinner paired with fresh veggies. They're simple to whip up and are sure to brighten your day. Who wouldn’t want a bite of sunshine in their meal?

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-25T21:02:27.619Z

When I first tried these bagels, I was genuinely surprised by how delicious they were. The cottage cheese adds a unique texture and moisture that I hadn’t experienced in traditional bagels before. I experimented with various toppings, from everything seasoning to sesame seeds, and each version tasted fantastic. It helped me realize how versatile bagels can be!

I also love knowing that these bagels are packed with protein, making them a satisfying option for any time of the day. If you're looking for a quick breakfast or snack, give these a try. They’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, perhaps with a smear of cream cheese or your favorite spread!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy cottage cheese creates an incredibly moist bagel.
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any time of the day.
Customizable with a variety of toppings to suit your taste.

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is the star ingredient in these bagels, contributing a rich, creamy texture that is both moist and flavorful. Its high moisture content not only affects the bagel's consistency but also means you can minimize the amount of water added. This allows the dough to come together without becoming too sticky, making it easier to handle. If you're looking for a lower-fat alternative, you could experiment with low-fat or even fat-free cottage cheese, but keep in mind that this may affect the richness of the final product.

Using fresh cottage cheese will enhance the flavor profile of the bagels significantly. Look for curds that are small and moist rather than dry or rubbery. If your cottage cheese is particularly chunky, consider blending it briefly in a food processor to create a smoother consistency. This can help ensure better integration into the dough, resulting in an even texture throughout the bagel.

Tips for Shaping Perfect Bagels

Shaping the dough into bagels can be tricky if you're not familiar with the technique. After dividing the dough into equal pieces, roll each portion into a smooth ball. To create the traditional bagel shape, poke a hole in the center using your finger, then gently stretch it while rotating. Aim for a hole that is about one to two inches wide—this will ensure the bagels cook evenly without the center undercooking. If the dough is too sticky while shaping, lightly dust your hands and work surface with flour.

Another common issue when first making bagels is overworking the dough, which can lead to a tough texture. Mix just until combined and handle the dough delicately during shaping. If you find your bagels are not rising properly after baking, this could be a sign that the yeast (from the baking powder) wasn't activated fully or that the dough was too dense. Ensuring proper mixing and careful handling goes a long way in achieving a good rise.

Creative Topping Ideas

The beauty of Sunshine Cottage Cheese Bagels lies in their versatility, particularly when it comes to toppings. Beyond the classic sesame or poppy seeds, try adding a blend of everything bagel seasoning for an extra kick of flavor. You can also experiment with grated cheese, fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a unique take. Consider brushing the tops of the bagels with olive oil before sprinkling on toppings to help them adhere better and create a crispier finish.

If you prefer a sweeter version, consider adding cinnamon sugar to the top before baking. This gives a delightful contrast to the savory notes of the bagel. For a more savory approach, finely chopped onions or garlic could be mixed into the dough before baking, enhancing the flavor even further. There’s no limit to creativity here; don’t hesitate to get adventurous and find your personal favorite topping combinations!

Ingredients

For the Bagels

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cottage cheese
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup water
1 egg (for egg wash)

Feel free to add toppings such as sesame seeds or everything seasoning!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cottage cheese, sugar, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and water. Stir until well combined into a dough.

Form the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center and shape it into a bagel.

Prepare for Baking

Place the bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Beat the egg and brush it over the bagels for a golden finish.

Add Toppings and Bake

If desired, sprinkle with toppings. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Serve warm or at room temperature, with your favorite spreads!

Pro Tips

Try adding herbs or spices to the dough for an extra flavor kick. You can also swap some all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

Storage and Freezing

Once your bagels are baked and cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To freeze, wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature, and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to revive their texture.

For those who make a large batch, you can also slice the bagels before freezing. This saves time when you're in a hurry and makes it easier to toast them straight from the freezer. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn, as this can lead to a change in texture and taste once thawed.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

Feel free to play around with the basic recipe to suit dietary restrictions or personal tastes. For a gluten-free option, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free bagel mix that’s designed for yeast breads, simply following the instructions on the mix packaging. Keep in mind that the texture may differ, but you can achieve a delicious alternative with some careful adjustments.

If you're vegan, substituting cottage cheese with a non-dairy alternative made from cashews can mimic the creaminess of cottage cheese nicely. Additionally, you can use a flax or chia seed egg instead of the egg wash, which will help achieve a golden crust. Just remember, the flavor may vary slightly, but the results can still be wonderfully satisfying.

Serving Suggestions

These bagels are incredibly versatile, be it breakfast, lunch, or dinner! For breakfast, try slathering some on with ripe avocado, a sprinkle of salt, and a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing start to your day. Alternatively, pair them with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and capers for a luxurious brunch treat. You could even create mini sandwiches for lunch, layering in turkey, lettuce, and a slice of cheese.

For a light dinner, serve the bagels alongside a vibrant salad or a veggie platter. Their slightly tangy flavor complements fresh, crunchy vegetables beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, consider toasting the bagels and topping them with a rich, savory dip like hummus or tzatziki for an engaging appetizer that’s sure to impress at gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 swap.

→ How should I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add ingredients like cheese or herbs to the dough?

Absolutely! Mixing in shredded cheese or herbs can elevate the flavor of your bagels.

→ What can I serve with these bagels?

These bagels pair well with cream cheese, avocado, or smoked salmon. Get creative with your toppings!