These Savory Baked Cottage Cheese Bagels are tender on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and bursting with flavor from cheese, herbs, and spices. Made with wholesome ingredients like cottage cheese, rice flour, and eggs, they’re naturally gluten-free, protein-packed, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or healthy snacking. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb bread alternative or just want to try something new and delicious, these cheesy bagels will surprise you with their ease and incredible taste.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 9 mini bagels
Cuisine: Healthy Homemade / European-Inspired
Ingredients
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200 g (about 1 cup) cottage cheese
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1 large egg
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60 g (about ½ cup) hard cheese (cheddar, gouda, or similar), grated
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A handful of chopped green onions, dill, parsley, or other herbs (to taste)
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Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite spices (to taste)
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30 g (about ¼ cup) rice flour (adjust depending on moisture)
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Sesame seeds or other toppings (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
Prepare the mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese and egg. Use a fork or spatula to mix until smooth and evenly blended.
Add in the grated hard cheese and mix well. The cheese adds richness and savory flavor while helping bind the dough.
Stir in your chosen herbs (like dill or green onions) and seasonings. This is where you can get creative—try garlic powder, Italian herbs, smoked paprika, or chili flakes depending on your flavor profile.
Add the flour
Gradually mix in the rice flour. Depending on the moisture content of your cottage cheese, you might need a bit more or less. The dough should be slightly moist but firm enough to hold its shape.
If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little extra rice flour. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of yogurt or a few drops of water.
Shape the bagels
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Divide the dough into 9 equal portions. Roll each piece into a small ball, then shape into a bagel by gently pressing a hole in the center. You can also form them into buns or patties if preferred.
Place each shaped bagel onto the prepared baking sheet. If using, sprinkle sesame seeds or other seeds (like flax or poppy) over the tops for texture and extra nutrition.
Bake the bagels
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the edges are slightly crisp.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve and enjoy
These bagels are best enjoyed warm, but they’re also great at room temperature. Serve with cream cheese, hummus, avocado, or alongside soups and salads.