Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe

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If you love starting your day with a fresh, homemade treat that’s both satisfying and packed with good-for-you ingredients, then this Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe is going to become your new go-to favorite. These bagels are wonderfully soft yet slightly chewy, with a subtle tang from the cottage cheese that adds a boost of protein without weighing you down. What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to whip up, and the magic of the air fryer that gives them a golden, crispy crust in no time. Trust me, once you try making these at home, you’ll wonder why you ever bought bagels from the store!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in balancing flavor, texture, and that lovely golden color you get after air frying. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’re on your way to a wholesome, protein-packed delight.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and helps create that perfect dough consistency for shaping bagels.
• Baking powder: Acts as the leavening agent, making these bagels fluffy without the need for yeast.
• Pinch of salt (optional): Enhances all the flavors, so don’t skip it if you can!
• Cottage cheese (2% or 4%): The star ingredient that adds moisture, protein, and a delicious tangy flavor.
• Egg (optional): Used for the egg wash, giving your bagels a shiny, golden crust and helping seasonings stick.
• Everything seasoning, poppy seeds, sesame seeds: These toppings bring extra texture, flavor, and that irresistible bakery-fresh vibe.

How to Make Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by mixing your dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, and salt—in a medium bowl. Getting them evenly combined is important to ensure that every bite has just the right texture and subtle lift.

Step 2: Mix Dough

Next, make a well in the center of the dry mix and add your cottage cheese. Stirring gently with a fork or rubber spatula, watch as the dough starts to come together in a chunky form. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, this is a great time to use it for ease and thorough mixing.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Move your dough to a floured surface and knead it by hand until you’ve got a semi-smooth ball, about 1 to 2 minutes. If it’s sticky, a little extra flour on your hands or dough won’t hurt. Alternatively, you can use your stand mixer here as well.

Step 4: Shape Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long log about 6-7 inches long and roughly three-quarters of an inch thick. Then, simply pinch the ends together to form a classic bagel shape. This step always feels fun and gives you a chance to perfect your bagel shapes!

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash

Whisk your egg with a splash of water or milk and brush this over each bagel. This little step makes a huge difference—it helps toppings stick and creates that irresistible golden crust that makes you want to dig in immediately.

Step 6: Preheat Air Fryer & Prepare Basket

Set your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent any sticking—this helps your bagels keep their perfect shape and makes cleaning up easier.

Step 7: Air Fry Bagels

Arrange the bagels in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you’re making them in batches, don’t overcrowd! Air fry for 15 to 17 minutes, checking around the 10-minute mark to make sure they’re browning beautifully. Keep in mind that air fryer models differ, so a little visual check goes a long way.

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Once golden and fluffy, carefully take your bagels out and let them cool for about 15 minutes. This resting time makes slicing easier and keeps the crumb wonderfully tender. Then, they’re ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe

Garnishes

With these bagels, toppings are where you can truly express yourself. Classic cream cheese with a sprinkle of chives, a schmear of avocado mash with chili flakes, or even a dab of nut butter and sliced bananas—each garnishing option offers something deliciously different yet equally satisfying.

Side Dishes

If you’re turning this into a full breakfast or brunch, consider pairing your bagels with fresh fruit like berries or melon for a refreshing contrast, or perhaps a handful of crispy bacon if you want to add some savory indulgence. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette is also a great companion, making the meal light yet fulfilling.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not create mini bagel sandwiches by slicing these Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in half and filling them with smoked salmon, capers, and cream cheese for a stunning appetizer? Or cut them into bite-sized pieces for a charming appetizer platter at your next gathering—your friends will be impressed by both the flavor and your clever use of the air fryer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for up to a week. Keeping them covered prevents drying out, a common concern with homemade bagels, especially those made without yeast.

Freezing

If you want to keep your Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe longer, freezing is a perfect option. Wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months and still taste fresh once thawed and reheated.

Reheating

To bring your bagels back to life, simply pop them in the air fryer at 300°F for 3 to 5 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisped on the outside. Alternatively, a quick toast does the trick nicely if you’re short on time.

FAQs

Can I use fat-free cottage cheese instead of 2% or 4%?

You can use fat-free cottage cheese, but keep in mind it might result in a slightly drier dough and less rich flavor. The 2% or 4% versions help keep the bagels moist and tender.

Do I need to use an air fryer to make these bagels?

This Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe is optimized for air frying to achieve that perfect crust quickly, but you could bake them in a conventional oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes if needed.

Can I omit the egg wash?

Yes, the egg wash is optional. It helps toppings stick and gives a golden finish but skipping it won’t ruin your bagels; they’ll just have a slightly less shiny surface.

Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs, spices, or small bits of sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the dough before shaping to give your bagels an extra flavor twist.

How do I prevent the bagels from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Spraying the basket with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper works wonders. Also, avoid overcrowding so the air can circulate freely, which helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.

Final Thoughts

Making your own Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe is one of those kitchen wins that feels fantastic and tastes even better. With minimal ingredients, a simple process, and that unbeatable fresh-made taste, you’re doing yourself a kindness every time you whip these up. I can’t wait for you to try them and fall in love with this healthy, hearty twist on a classic bagel. Enjoy every bite!

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