Short Description

These protein-packed bagels are made with cottage cheese and flour, then air-fried to golden perfection—soft, savory, and loaded with flavor from your favorite toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is:

High in protein thanks to cottage cheese and optional egg
Soft and fluffy, yet light and satisfying
Quick to make with minimal ingredients and no boiling required
Customizable: top with your favorite seeds or seasoning blends
Perfect for meal prep and quick breakfasts

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup all‑purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
Pinch of salt (optional)
1 cup + 2 tablespoons cottage cheese (2% or 4% fat)
1 egg (optional; for egg wash)
Toppings: everything seasoning, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or other savory blends

Directions

In a medium bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Add a pinch of salt if desired.
Make a well in the center of the flour, then add the cottage cheese. Stir with a fork or spatula until a chunky dough forms. A stand mixer with a dough hook may also be used.
Turn the dough onto a well‑floured surface. Knead by hand for 1–2 minutes until smooth. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky or coat your hands with flour.
Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each into a 6–7‑inch log about ¾ inch thick, then connect the ends to form a bagel shape.
Optional: whisk the egg with a splash of water or milk and brush lightly over each bagel. Add desired toppings (e.g. everything seasoning, poppy seeds, sesame seeds).
Preheat your air fryer to 300 °F (approx. 150 °C). Spray or line the basket with cooking spray or parchment.
Place bagels in a single layer; cook in batches if needed. Air fry for 15–17 minutes, checking around 10 minutes and adjusting time as needed until bagels are golden brown.
Once cooked, remove bagels and let cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings And Timing

Servings: Makes 4 bagels
Prep Time: ~5–10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–17 minutes
Rest/Cool Time: ~15 minutes
Total Time: ~35–40 minutes

Variations

Whole wheat: Substitute part or all-purpose flour with whole wheat or a 50/50 blend.
Herb twist: Stir in dried herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or chives) into the dough.
Flavored cottage cheese: Use garlic‑and‑herb cottage cheese for savory extra flavor.
Topping combos: Try everything seasoning mixed with Parmesan, chili flakes, or cheddar.
Mini bagels: Shape into smaller pieces for bite‑sized snacks or lunchbox portions.

Storage/Reheating

Store: In an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature, then reheat.
Reheat: Warm in the air fryer at 300 °F for 3–4 minutes, or toast slices in a toaster oven until crisp and warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead Of Cottage Cheese?

Yes—Greek yogurt (especially thick, strained variety) can be used instead, though the texture may be slightly softer.

2. Is The Egg Wash Necessary?

No—it’s optional and used only to help toppings adhere and give a shiny finish.

3. Can I Make These Gluten‑free?

Yes—substitute the all‑purpose flour with a gluten‑free blend. Texture may vary and may need more flour for kneading.

4. Can I Prep The Dough Ahead Of Time?

Yes—prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator, then shape and air‑fry when ready.

5. My Dough Was Sticky—How Do I Prevent That?

Add a small sprinkle of flour to the dough or your hands until workable; kneading on a floured surface helps too.

6. Can I Bake These In An Oven Instead Of An Air Fryer?

Yes—bake on a parchment‑lined baking sheet at 350 °F for about 20–25 minutes until golden.

7. Are These Bagels Dense Or Light?

They tend toward light and fluffy because of the cottage cheese; kneading briefly helps avoid heaviness.

8. Can I Add Cheese To The Dough?

Yes—fold in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for cheesy bagels.

9. What Toppings Are Best?

Savory toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning, or dried onion/garlic bits work really well.

10. Can I Double This Recipe?

Yes—you can double the ingredients to make eight bagels. Air‑fry in batches or use a larger air fryer if available.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Protein Bagels are a flavorful, protein-rich alternative to traditional bagels—easy to make with simple ingredients and quick air-frying. Whether topped with seeds, everything seasoning, or cheese, they’re perfect for breakfast, snacking, or meal prep. Enjoy them fresh, toasted, or warmed to satisfy your bagel cravings with less fuss.