Description
These Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels are a quick and healthy homemade treat cooked in the air fryer. Made with simple ingredients like cottage cheese, flour, and baking powder, these bagels are soft, protein-packed, and perfect for breakfast or snack. The air frying method gives them a golden crust without the need for traditional baking, making them a convenient and delicious option.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons cottage cheese (2% or 4%)
- 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)
- Splash of water or milk (for egg wash)
Toppings
- Everything seasoning
- Poppy seeds
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt (if using) into a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Mix Dough: Create a well in the center of the dry mixture and add the cottage cheese. Stir continuously with a fork or rubber spatula until the mixture begins to form a chunky, yet cohesive dough. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a well-floured surface. Knead it by hand for 1 to 2 minutes until it forms a semi-smooth ball. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little more flour on top or coat your hands lightly with flour. This kneading can also be done using a stand mixer with the dough hook.
- Shape Bagels: Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a log about 6-7 inches long and 3/4 inch thick. Join the ends of each log to form a classic bagel shape and ensure the ends are sealed well. Repeat for all four portions.
- Apply Egg Wash: Crack the egg into a small bowl and whisk it with a splash of water or milk. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush each bagel with the egg wash. This will help your toppings stick and give the bagels a beautiful golden crust once cooked.
- Preheat Air Fryer & Prepare Basket: Set your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and preheat. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent the bagels from sticking during cooking.
- Air Fry Bagels: Place the bagels flat in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. If all will not fit, cook in batches. Air fry the bagels for 15-17 minutes, turning them once or checking at around 10 minutes, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model.
- Cool & Serve: Carefully remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite spreads or toppings.
Notes
- Use 2% or 4% cottage cheese for best texture; avoid fat-free as it can make the dough too wet.
- Flour type can be adjusted to whole wheat or gluten-free, but texture may vary.
- If not using egg wash, brush bagels lightly with milk or water to help toppings stick.
- Air fryer cooking times vary by model; start checking at 10 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Allow bagels to cool completely to ensure the interior sets properly before slicing.
