Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels

Name: Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Optional: toppings like cinnamon sugar or sesame seeds

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love baking Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels! They are not only quick and simple to prepare, but the combination of creamy cottage cheese with a hint of sweetness makes them utterly delightful. These bagels are perfect for breakfast or a snack, and I enjoy experimenting with different toppings. Whether it’s a smear of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey, the flavor combinations are endless. Plus, they’re a great way to sneak in some protein, making them not just delicious but also satisfying.

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:16:17.783Z

When I first decided to make these Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels, I was amazed at how well cottage cheese works in dough. It adds a level of moisture and richness that elevates the texture. After several trials, I found that incorporating a touch of sugar enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the classic bagel taste.

What’s great about these bagels is their versatility. You can swap in different toppings based on what you crave that day. I love to sprinkle cinnamon sugar on some and go for an herb mixture on others. It keeps breakfast exciting and fresh!

        Why You'll Love These Bagels
        Delicately sweet with a hint of creaminess from cottage cheese
Super easy to make, perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers
Versatile toppings to suit every craving from sweet to savory

      

Perfecting the Dough

The dough for Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels is relatively simple, but the key to achieving the right texture lies in the balance of ingredients. The cottage cheese adds moisture and richness, while the all-purpose flour provides the structure. If you find the dough a bit sticky after mixing, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it is manageable. Kneading the dough is crucial; just two minutes on a floured surface should make it smooth and elastic, which helps the bagels rise beautifully during baking.

As you shape your bagels, it’s important to ensure that the rope of dough is even in thickness. Uneven bagels may bake at different rates, leading to some being overdone while others remain undercooked. Use both hands to roll each piece to achieve a consistent thickness, about 8 inches long. When pinching the ends to seal, make sure it’s done tightly, as this prevents the bagel from coming apart during boiling.

Boiling for the Perfect Texture

Boiling the bagels is a crucial step that gives them their characteristic chewy texture. When the water reaches a rolling boil, gently drop in the bagels, making sure not to overcrowd the pot; you can boil 2-3 bagels at a time. Cook them for approximately 1 minute on each side to achieve a glossy exterior. This process helps create that delightful crust that forms during baking. If you're feeling adventurous, you can add a tablespoon of baking soda to the boiling water to enhance the bagel's color and texture.

Once boiled, use a slotted spoon to carefully transfer the bagels to the baking sheet. It’s essential to brush them with beaten egg before adding toppings—this gives them a beautiful golden color. If you're using toppings like cinnamon sugar, sprinkle them generously to ensure that every bite is flavorful. Keep an eye on them during baking; you want that golden-brown finish, usually about 15 minutes, to signify that they’re ready.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels:

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cottage cheese
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Optional: toppings like cinnamon sugar or sesame seeds

Once you have everything laid out, you're ready to start crafting these bagels!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels:

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the flour, cottage cheese, sugar, baking powder, and salt until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 2 minutes until it's smooth.

Shape Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 8 inches long and form it into a circle, pinching the ends to seal.

Preheat Oven

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

Boil and Bake

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently drop in the bagels, cooking for about 1 minute on each side. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the baking sheet.

Brush with beaten egg and add your desired toppings.

Final Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before enjoying!

These bagels are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven!

Pro Tips

To add more flavor, consider including a teaspoon of vanilla extract into the dough. For a more savory touch, add herbs or shredded cheese into the mixture.

Storage Tips

Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for 2-3 days. If you're looking to keep them fresh for longer, consider freezing them. To do this, let the bagels cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen bagel, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. You can also reheat them in the toaster or oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through, bringing back their delightful texture.

Topping Ideas

The versatility of these bagels shines through the variety of toppings you can choose. For a sweet treat, consider a spread of cream cheese mixed with a hint of vanilla extract and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Fresh fruits like sliced strawberries or peaches can make for a refreshing addition, enhancing the sweetness while adding a pop of color.

If you crave something savory, try adding smoked salmon or slices of tomato with a dash of everything bagel seasoning. A sprinkle of sesame seeds before baking can add an appealing crunch. You can even experiment with garlic powder or nutritional yeast for an umami flavor. The key is to balance the flavors so that the delightful sweetness of the bagel shines through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese works great as a substitute for regular cottage cheese.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

For a sweet option, try cinnamon sugar or chocolate chips. For savory, sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or grated cheese work wonderfully!