Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels

Name: Sweet 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; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love these Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels! They are a delightful twist on the traditional bagel, offering a slightly sweet flavor and a lovely fluffy texture. When I first made these, I was amazed at how easy they were to prepare, and the bright, creamy taste of the cottage cheese really shines through. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, these bagels are a delicious way to start your day or satisfy your cravings any time. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:46:14.666Z

When I first attempted to make Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly they came together. Using cottage cheese in the dough adds a wonderful moistness, creating a bagel that is both delicious and satisfying. This also means I didn’t have to worry about the bagels being too dry, which can happen with traditional recipes.

I also found that allowing the dough to rest for just a few minutes made a significant difference in the texture. It allowed the gluten to relax, making the bagels lighter and fluffier. My family couldn’t get enough of them!

        Why You'll Love These Bagels
        Unique sweetness from cottage cheese that you won't find in regular bagels
Fluffy texture with a golden-brown crust
Simple ingredients and easy preparation for any baker

      

The Role of Cottage Cheese

The cottage cheese is not just an ingredient; it’s the star of this recipe. Its natural sweetness and creamy texture contribute significantly to the overall flavor and moisture of the bagels. Unlike traditional bagels that might come off as dense, the inclusion of cottage cheese lightens the dough, resulting in a delightfully fluffy interior. You can even play around with different varieties; for a more robust tang, try using reduced-fat or whole milk cottage cheese.

Using cottage cheese also elevates the nutritional value of these bagels. It adds protein, which not only helps keep you feeling fuller longer but also contributes to a tender crumb structure. As you stir in the wet ingredients, you’ll notice the dough becomes soft but still manageable, ensuring that it holds together beautifully during the shaping process.

Boiling Tips for Perfect Bagels

Boiling the bagels before baking is a crucial step that sets them apart from other baked goods. It helps develop that quintessential chewy skin characteristic of traditional bagels. Make sure your pot of water is at a rolling boil before adding the bagels; this high heat helps set the crust quickly. You can enhance the flavor of the bagels by adding a bit of honey or malt syrup to the boiling water for an extra touch of sweetness and color.

When you drop the bagels into the pot, do so carefully to avoid splashing. You should see them puff up slightly as they cook. Boiling them for 2-3 minutes on each side ensures a perfect balance of softness and chewiness. Keep an eye on them; if they start sticking together, give them a gentle nudge with a slotted spoon.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven but can be stored for later. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Just toast them straight from the freezer for a quick breakfast or snack.

Serving these bagels offers endless possibilities! Spread some cream cheese on top for a classic touch, or get creative with toppings. A drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, or even fresh fruit can elevate your bagel experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, create delicious mini sandwiches with your favorite fillings; they make for delightful snacks or light lunches.

Ingredients

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cottage cheese
1/4 cup sugar
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine the cottage cheese, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.

Knead and Shape

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a bagel by forming a ring.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop in the bagels, boiling them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bagels for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sprinkling sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top before baking. These bagels also freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep!

Scaling the Recipe

If you want to make a larger batch of these delightful bagels, simply double or triple the ingredients while ensuring your mixing bowl is large enough to accommodate the extra dough. Keep in mind that the boiling time might slightly increase if you are boiling more bagels at once—just ensure that they have enough space in the pot so they don't stick together.

Conversely, if you want to make a smaller batch, you can safely halve all the ingredient amounts. Similarly, use a scale for accuracy, especially with flour, as even minor discrepancies can alter the consistency of your dough.

Common Troubleshooting

If your dough feels too sticky while kneading, a light dusting of flour on your hands and the work surface can help. Be cautious not to add too much, as it may change the texture of the bagels. Conversely, if the dough seems too dry, a teaspoon of water can help bind it without compromising the overall mixture.

Another common issue is bagels spreading during baking rather than holding their shape. This can happen if the dough isn’t kneaded enough, so make sure to knead until smooth. Additionally, ensure the bagels are properly boiled before baking to give them the necessary structure. If they do spread, this is not a total loss; they will still taste great!

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize your Sweet Cottage Cheese Bagels by adding mix-ins to the dough. Chopped herbs like chives or sun-dried tomatoes can infuse the bagels with savory flavors. For a sweet version, you might consider adding mini chocolate chips or dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins; just be mindful of the overall sweetness when incorporating these extras.

Spices can also play a key role in flavor variations. Adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour can transform your bagels into a sweet delight perfect for breakfast. Alternatively, a pinch of garlic powder can impart a unique savory twist, making them an excellent pairing with soups and salads.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese can be used, but it may affect the texture slightly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I add toppings?

Absolutely! Try adding cinnamon sugar or poppy seeds to give them an extra flavor boost.

→ What should I serve with these bagels?

They pair wonderfully with cream cheese, fruit preserves, or your favorite spreads!