Protein Bagels with Cottage Cheese – Fluffy & Protein-Packed
If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious way to start your day, these protein bagels with cottage cheese are the perfect choice. With 11 grams of protein per bagel, they provide a great boost of energy while keeping you full longer. Unlike store-bought bagels, this homemade version is made with simple, wholesome ingredients and contains no preservatives.
These bagels are easy to make, fluffy, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, as a snack, or as a post-workout meal, they are a tasty way to incorporate more protein into your diet.
Why You’ll Love These Protein Bagels
- High in Protein – Each bagel contains 11 grams of protein, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Nutritious – Made with whole wheat flour and cottage cheese for added fiber and protein.
- Versatile – Enjoy them plain, toasted, or topped with your favorite spreads.
- No Yeast Required – No waiting for dough to rise, so they’re ready in no time.
- Better Than Store-Bought – No preservatives or artificial additives.
- Budget-Friendly – Making bagels at home saves money compared to buying from bakeries.
Ingredients
To make these fluffy and protein-packed bagels, you’ll need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1½ cups whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
These ingredients come together to create a delicious bagel with a soft, fluffy texture and a boost of protein.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, whole wheat flour, and baking powder.
- Add the egg and honey (or maple syrup), then mix well until a dough forms.
- If the dough feels too sticky, lightly flour your hands before shaping it.
Step 3: Shape the Bagels
- Divide the dough into 4 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a ball, then use your fingers to poke a hole in the center, shaping it into a bagel.
Step 4: Bake
- Place the shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
- Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Benefits of Protein Bagels
High-Protein Ingredient Breakdown
- Cottage Cheese – A great source of casein protein, which helps with muscle recovery and keeps you full longer.
- Whole Wheat Flour – Provides fiber for digestive health and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
- Eggs – Packed with protein and essential nutrients like choline and vitamin B12.
- Honey or Maple Syrup – Natural sweeteners that add a touch of flavor without processed sugars.
Nutritional Facts (Per Bagel)
- Calories: ~180
- Protein: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fats: 4g
- Fiber: 3g
Tasty Ways to Enjoy Your Protein Bagels
Classic Toppings
- Cream Cheese & Smoked Salmon – A protein-packed breakfast favorite.
- Peanut Butter & Banana Slices – A delicious mix of protein, healthy fats, and natural sweetness.
- Avocado & Egg – Healthy fats and extra protein for a satisfying meal.
- Hummus & Cucumbers – A savory, fiber-rich option.
Creative Bagel Sandwich Ideas
- Turkey & Cheese – A protein boost for lunch.
- Tuna Salad – A nutritious and filling option.
- Greek Yogurt & Berries – A refreshing and creamy treat.
- Grilled Chicken & Spinach – A great post-workout meal.
- Nut Butter & Dark Chocolate Chips – A sweet but healthy snack.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
How to Store
- Store bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days to keep them fresh.
- Freeze for up to 3 months by wrapping them individually and placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating Instructions
- Toast in a toaster for a crisp texture.
- Warm in the microwave for 15–20 seconds for a softer bite.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Another Type of Flour?
Yes! You can substitute whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour, oat flour, or a gluten-free blend.
Can I Make These Bagels Without Eggs?
Yes! You can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, mixed and set for 5 minutes).
Are These Bagels Good for Weight Loss?
These bagels are high in protein and fiber, making them a great option for a balanced diet. Pair them with healthy toppings to maintain a nutritious meal plan.
Can I Make Mini Bagels?
Absolutely! Simply divide the dough into smaller portions and reduce the baking time by a few minutes.
Can I Add Mix-Ins to the Dough?
Yes! You can customize these bagels by adding:
- Chia or flax seeds for extra fiber.
- Shredded cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Cinnamon and raisins for a sweeter variation.
- Garlic powder and herbs for a savory option.
Tips for the Perfect Homemade Bagels
Knead the Dough Properly
Ensure you mix and knead the dough just enough to combine ingredients. Over-kneading can make bagels too dense.
Use Fresh Baking Powder
Fresh baking powder ensures the dough rises well and results in fluffy bagels. If your baking powder is old, your bagels may turn out flat.
Experiment with Different Sweeteners
Instead of honey or maple syrup, try agave syrup or coconut sugar for different flavors.
Try Different Spreads
Pair your bagels with almond butter, Greek yogurt, or even mashed avocado for a delicious twist.
Final Thoughts
These protein bagels with cottage cheese are an easy, nutritious, and delicious way to add more protein to your diet. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying breakfast, a high-protein snack, or a healthy meal option, these bagels are the perfect choice. Try them with different toppings, experiment with flavors, and enjoy a homemade bagel that’s both tasty and nutritious!
PrintProtein Bagels with Cottage Cheese
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These protein bagels with cottage cheese are fluffy, delicious, and packed with 11g of protein per serving. A perfect high-protein breakfast or snack!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1½ cups whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Mix cottage cheese, flour, baking powder, egg, and honey until a dough forms.
- Shape into bagels and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Store at room temperature for 2 days, refrigerate for 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Customize with toppings like seeds, cheese, or spices.
- Use a flax egg for an egg-free option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
- Calories: ~180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: protein bagels, high-protein breakfast, cottage cheese bagels, healthy bagels, no-yeast bagels, whole wheat bagels, homemade bagels, easy protein snacks, meal prep breakfast