Cottage Cheese Bagels – The Ultimate High-Protein Bagel Recipe You’ll Crave

Cottage Cheese Bagels are exactly the kind of recipe we live for here at Kitchen Yumy—simple ingredients, big comfort, and the kind of flavor that makes people gather around your kitchen counter asking, “Wait…how did you make these?”

Hi, I’m Sophie, and if you’ve been with me at Kitchen Yumy for a while, you know I believe that great food doesn’t need to be complicated—it just needs to taste amazing and make you feel good. These high-protein, golden-crusted bagels? They’re the perfect example.

Born out of a lazy Saturday kitchen experiment (and inspired by my obsession with testing out TikTok trends), this cottage cheese bagels recipe checks all the boxes:
✅ 4 simple ingredients
✅ Packed with protein
✅ Ready in under 30 minutes
✅ Family-approved (yes, even by the picky eaters)

We’re taking cottage cheese—the humble fridge staple that’s finally having its moment—and turning it into something that feels indulgent but fuels your day. Whether you’re on a fitness journey, trying to eat a little cleaner, or just want a better breakfast option, these bagels are it.

And in true Kitchen Yumy fashion, we’re keeping it real: no fancy tools, no fuss, just a cozy, satisfying recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Looking for inspiration? Try gipfeli recipe – Swiss crescent for another breakfast bake that’s comfort-food gold.

Now let’s get you from “I saw it on Instagram” to “I made it and it was amazing.” Ready to bake?

Introduction to Cottage Cheese Bagels

What Are Cottage Cheese Bagels?

Cottage cheese bagels are a high-protein twist on the classic breakfast favorite. Instead of relying solely on flour and yeast, these bagels use blended cottage cheese to create a tender, chewy texture while boosting the protein content dramatically. It’s a win-win—taste meets nutrition.

This approach isn’t just a food hack; it’s a whole new category in health-forward baking. By replacing heavy cream cheese or sugary toppings with lean cottage cheese, you get a balanced, low-fat snack or breakfast item that supports fitness and clean eating.

Why Cottage Cheese Is a Game-Changer for Bagels

Here’s what makes cottage cheese a superstar in this recipe:

Benefits	Why It Matters
High Protein	Supports muscle repair and keeps you fuller longer
Low Fat	Makes it suitable for weight loss diets
Moist Texture	Eliminates the need for added oils or butter
Blends Easily	Gives the dough a smoother, uniform consistency

This ingredient swap alone turns a “carb bomb” into a functional food—perfect for anyone watching macros or eating intuitively.

Health Benefits of Using Cottage Cheese in Baked Goods

Using cottage cheese in baked goods like bagels introduces several nutritional benefits:

• Better Blood Sugar Control: The protein slows carbohydrate absorption.
• Bone Health Support: It’s rich in calcium and phosphorus.
• Satiety and Weight Management: Keeps cravings at bay due to its satiating effect.

Don’t miss our 3-ingredient cream cheese sausage dip if you love savory dairy-based recipes with a twist!

Focus on High-Protein, Low-Fat Snacking Options

For those who meal prep or follow macro-based diets, cottage cheese bagels check every box:

• ✔️ Easy to prepare
• ✔️ Portable and freezer-friendly
• ✔️ Customizable with spices or toppings
• ✔️ Great balance of protein and carbs

Check out easy protein muffins recipe for another muscle-friendly breakfast or snack idea.

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Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe (Step-by-Step)

If you’ve been scrolling social media and stumbled upon Bethenny Frankel’s viral cottage cheese bagels, you’re probably wondering if they’re really that easy. Spoiler alert: they are! With just a few basic pantry ingredients and no yeast or fancy tools, you can make protein-rich bagels in under 30 minutes. Let’s get into the recipe breakdown.

Ingredients Needed for the Recipe

To make cottage cheese bagels, you’ll need the following:

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	1 cup (plus extra for dusting)
Baking powder	2 teaspoons
Salt	1 teaspoon
Cottage cheese (blended)	1 cup
Egg	½ (beaten) or 1 egg white
Optional toppings	Sesame seeds, everything but the bagel seasoning, poppy seeds

Discover great ideas like easy homemade Cuban bread if you want to experiment further with basic dough recipes.

How to Blend Cottage Cheese for the Dough

Cottage cheese straight from the tub is too chunky for baking. Here’s how to prep it properly:

1. Add 1 cup of cottage cheese to a blender or food processor.
2. Blend until completely smooth—no lumps allowed.
3. You should get a creamy, thick mixture that mimics yogurt in consistency.

This ensures the dough mixes evenly and your bagels bake with a soft, uniform crumb.

Forming and Shaping the Bagels Properly

Once your wet and dry ingredients are ready, follow these shaping steps:

1. In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the blended cottage cheese and stir with a fork until a dough forms.
3. Switch to your hands and knead lightly for 1–2 minutes.
4. If the dough is too sticky, add a sprinkle of flour until it firms up.

Now comes the shaping:

• Divide the dough into 4 equal parts.
• Roll each into a ball and poke a hole in the center.
• Gently stretch into a bagel shape.
• Dust with flour if it sticks to your hands.

Pro Tip: Don’t overwork the dough—it should be soft but not tacky.

Optional Seasonings for Extra Flavor

Plain bagels are a canvas. Customize yours with:

Topping Idea	Flavor Profile
Everything but the bagel seasoning	Savory, garlicky
Sesame seeds	Nutty and mild
Poppy seeds	Earthy crunch
Sea salt + rosemary	Gourmet touch
Cinnamon + erythritol	Sweet protein snack

Brush the tops and sides of your shaped bagels with beaten egg. Then, sprinkle on your chosen topping generously before cooking.

Learn more about homemade brown sugar syrup if you’re leaning toward a sweet version.

Air Frying vs Baking Cottage Cheese Bagels

When it comes to cooking your cottage cheese bagels, you’ve got two winning options: air frying or traditional baking. Each method brings its own texture, convenience, and taste differences. Depending on your kitchen setup or time crunch, here’s what you need to know to choose the best method.

Why Air Frying is the Secret to Golden Crust

The air fryer has become a favorite tool in many kitchens—and for good reason. It circulates hot air rapidly to create that perfectly golden, crispy outer layer while keeping the inside soft and chewy.

Benefits of air frying your bagels:

• Faster cook time (13 minutes at 300°F)
• No need to preheat the oven
• Uses less energy
• Delivers a deep golden color and crisp texture

This method is ideal if you’re making a small batch or need a quick protein-packed breakfast. The egg wash gives a beautiful shine and helps toppings like sesame seeds stick well.

Traditional Oven Method: When You Don’t Have an Air Fryer

No air fryer? No problem. Your oven can still produce bakery-worthy results—just with a bit more time and care.

Oven-Baking Instructions:

1. Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.

This method may yield a slightly softer crust compared to air frying, but it’s just as delicious. For a crunchier finish, broil the bagels for the last 1–2 minutes—just don’t walk away!

Check out bang bang sauce if you’re baking a batch of savory bagels and want a bold dip on the side.

Cooking Time, Temperature, and Texture Comparison

Method	Temperature	Time	Texture
Air Fryer	300°F	13 minutes	Crisp outside, chewy inside
Oven	375°F	20–25 minutes	Softer crust, still golden

Pro Tip: Let your bagels cool slightly before slicing to lock in moisture. And always store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them from drying out.

Nutritional Value and Health Benefits

If you’re watching your macros or just trying to eat clean, cottage cheese bagels are a total game changer. Unlike traditional bagels that often spike blood sugar and offer little protein, these give you balance: carbs, protein, and minimal fat. Plus, they’re customizable to fit various dietary lifestyles—whether you’re cutting, maintaining, or bulking.

Calories and Macros per Bagel

One of the most common questions people ask is: How many calories are in a cottage cheese bagel?

Let’s break it down. This is based on one bagel from our 4-serving recipe:

Nutrient	Approximate Value
Calories	140–160 kcal
Protein	11–13 grams
Carbohydrates	18–20 grams
Fat	3–4 grams

These values may shift slightly based on the brand of cottage cheese or toppings used. But overall, this recipe keeps you well within your daily calorie goals while boosting your protein intake.

Protein Breakdown from Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a rich source of casein protein, which digests slowly—helping you feel full longer and feed your muscles gradually.

Here’s what 1 cup of blended low-fat cottage cheese brings to your bagels:

• ~25 grams of protein total (divided across 4 bagels)
• All nine essential amino acids
• High calcium and phosphorus content
• Almost no sugar or lactose if you opt for lactose-free varieties

That’s why these bagels work beautifully for post-workout fuel or late-night snacks without sugar crashes.

Comparison to Traditional Bagels

Let’s look at a nutritional side-by-side:

Category	Traditional Bagel	Cottage Cheese Bagel
Calories	250–300 kcal	140–160 kcal
Protein	4–5g	11–13g
Fat	1–2g	3–4g
Fiber	1–2g	1–2g
Sugar	5–7g	<1g

As you can see, switching to cottage cheese bagels almost doubles your protein while slashing sugar and calories. That’s serious fuel with less guilt.

Why Cottage Cheese Bagels Are Ideal for Fitness Enthusiasts

These bagels aren’t just trendy—they’re functional nutrition. Here’s why athletes, gym-goers, and even bodybuilders are jumping on the cottage cheese bandwagon:

• Sustained energy release due to protein and slow carbs
• Muscle maintenance and recovery from high-quality protein
• Perfect pre- or post-workout snack without sugar spikes
• Low glycemic index, keeping blood sugar steady

Don’t miss our delicious dirty soda recipe if you want a fizzy, fun drink to pair with your protein-rich bagel breakfast.

Viral Trends – Bethenny Frankel’s Cottage Cheese Bagel

When a former Real Housewife and wellness mogul goes viral for a cottage cheese bagel, people pay attention. Bethenny Frankel took TikTok by storm with her simple, protein-packed twist on a classic—and the internet couldn’t get enough. But what made Bethenny Frankel’s cottage cheese bagel go viral? Let’s break down the recipe, the hype, and what sets it apart from other versions.

Who Is Bethenny Frankel and What Made Her Bagels Go Viral?

Bethenny Frankel is no stranger to wellness trends. Known for her focus on clean eating and healthy living, she shared her cottage cheese bagel hack on social media and within hours, it gained traction for being:

• High-protein
• Gluten-free optional
• Low in calories
• Ridiculously easy

The appeal wasn’t just in the nutrition. Her followers were stunned that a few ingredients could deliver that chewy, golden-brown texture without any yeast, waiting, or kneading.

Step-by-Step Breakdown of Her Recipe

Bethenny’s version keeps things ultra-simple, similar to the recipe we’ve outlined but with a few minimalist twists. Here’s a quick walkthrough of her viral prep:

1. Blend 1 cup of cottage cheese until completely smooth.
2. Mix with self-rising flour (or AP flour + baking powder + salt).
3. Knead into a dough and shape into bagels.
4. Air fry at 300°F for 13–15 minutes until golden.
5. Brush with egg and add seasoning like everything bagel mix.

And that’s it—no waiting for proofing or second rises. It’s quick, wholesome, and very on-brand for busy, health-conscious individuals.

Differences Between Her Version and Others

While many recipes float around, Bethenny’s is especially viral for two reasons: visibility and simplicity. Compared to traditional recipes, her version:

Feature	Bethenny’s Version	Classic Cottage Cheese Bagels
Flour Type	Self-rising	All-purpose + leavening agents
Equipment	Air fryer only	Oven or air fryer
Time	15–20 minutes total	30–40 minutes
Style	Minimalist	More customizable

Some creators even adapted her version using almond flour or whole wheat to fit specific diets like keto or high-fiber lifestyles.

Social Media Impact of the Viral Trend

Thanks to her massive online presence and no-nonsense approach to food, the Bethenny Frankel bagel trend exploded. Influencers and food bloggers recreated it endlessly—leading to hashtags like:

• #CottageCheeseBagel
• #ProteinBagels
• #BethennyFrankelRecipe
• #AirFryerBagels

The takeaway? This isn’t just a recipe—it’s a movement toward high-protein, low-effort home cooking. And it’s proof that cottage cheese has officially entered its main character era.

Check out delicious cinnamon dessert pizza recipe if you’re craving another creative and unexpected use of dough in a sweet form.

Cottage Cheese for Fitness and Weight Loss

When it comes to functional foods, cottage cheese is the quiet champion of fitness nutrition—and it’s finally getting the spotlight it deserves. It’s no surprise that bodybuilders, athletes, and dieters have been loading up on it for years. But when you blend that nutritional powerhouse into cottage cheese bagels, the results are not just delicious, but performance-friendly too.

Why Do Bodybuilders Eat Cottage Cheese Before Bed?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions—and for good reason. The secret lies in casein protein, the dominant protein in cottage cheese.

Casein is a slow-digesting protein, which means it provides a steady stream of amino acids to the body over several hours. That’s why it’s often eaten before bed—to help repair muscle tissue and support growth overnight.

For fitness lovers, incorporating cottage cheese bagels into your evening snack routine can:

• Support overnight muscle recovery
• Keep you full longer, reducing late-night snacking
• Help you hit your daily protein intake goals easily

Slow Digesting Proteins and Muscle Recovery

Unlike whey protein (which spikes blood amino acid levels quickly), casein delivers slow, sustained absorption. That’s exactly what you want if you:

• Train hard and need all-day recovery support
• Are on a cut and want to avoid muscle loss
• Struggle with staying full between meals

Cottage cheese bagels provide not only this slow-digesting protein, but also carbohydrates to help shuttle that protein into your muscles more efficiently.

Best Time of Day to Eat Cottage Cheese Bagels

Thanks to their balanced macronutrient profile, these bagels are flexible. Here’s how to optimize timing:

Time of Day	Benefit
Morning	Fuels workouts and provides lasting energy
Midday snack	Curbs hunger between meals
Post-workout	Replenishes glycogen + supports muscle repair
Evening	Prevents overnight muscle breakdown with casein

You can also prep a big batch for the week and keep your fitness goals on track with minimal effort.

Incorporating Cottage Cheese Bagels into a High-Protein Diet

Whether you’re following macro tracking, keto-ish plans, or just eating cleaner, cottage cheese bagels are an easy fit.

Here’s how they compare to other protein snacks:

Snack	Protein (g)	Calories
1 cottage cheese bagel	11–13g	~150 kcal
Protein bar	10–20g	180–250 kcal
Greek yogurt	10g	~100–120 kcal
Hard-boiled eggs (2)	12g	~140 kcal

Pro Tip: Pair your bagel with a smear of natural nut butter, sliced egg, or smoked salmon to level up the flavor and nutrition.

Flavor Variations and Topping Ideas

Once you’ve mastered the base recipe for cottage cheese bagels, it’s time to get creative. The best part about this high-protein recipe is how customizable it is—sweet, savory, spicy, or simple. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding picky eaters, these flavor and topping ideas will make your bagels even more crave-worthy.

Sweet vs Savory: Best Flavor Combos

The blended cottage cheese base is mild, making it super versatile. You can easily turn this bagel into a sweet treat or a savory meal.

Flavor Type	Ideas
Sweet	Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract to the dough. Top with almond butter and sliced banana.
Savory	Mix in garlic powder, chopped herbs, or shredded cheese. Top with avocado, egg, or lox.

Sweet versions are great for breakfast, while savory bagels work perfectly as a high-protein lunch or snack.

Seasonings You Can Add: Everything Bagel, Garlic, etc.

Before baking or air frying, sprinkle your bagels with any of these crowd-pleasing toppings:

• Everything But the Bagel Seasoning (Trader Joe’s style)
• Sesame seeds or poppy seeds
• Chili flakes or cracked pepper
• Grated parmesan or cheddar cheese
• Garlic & onion powder blend

You can also add seasonings directly to the dough for flavor in every bite, not just on top.

Toppings: Cream Cheese, Smoked Salmon, Avocado

Think beyond butter. After baking, let your bagels cool slightly and load them up with healthy, delicious toppings.

Topping	Nutritional Perk
Cream cheese (light or whipped)	Adds flavor and fat for satiety
Smoked salmon	Rich in omega-3s and protein
Mashed avocado	Healthy fats and fiber
Hummus or tzatziki	Great for a Mediterranean twist
Hard-boiled egg slices	Protein + texture combo

Pro Tip: For a brunch-worthy combo, try cream cheese + smoked salmon + red onion + capers + cucumber.

Customization Ideas for Kids and Picky Eaters

Trying to make this recipe family-friendly? No problem. Kids and picky eaters will love these fun ideas:

• Mini Bagels: Make smaller versions that are perfect for little hands.
• Cheesy Pockets: Fill the center with melty cheese before air frying.
• Sweet Swirls: Add mini chocolate chips or raisins to the dough.
• Fruit-Friendly: Top with nut butter and strawberries or apples.

You can even let kids decorate their own with a mini “topping bar” to make it a fun breakfast or snack activity.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Making a batch of cottage cheese bagels is efficient—but storing them right is what ensures you enjoy every last one without waste. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or baking ahead for busy mornings, this part walks you through how to keep your bagels fresh, flavorful, and freezer-ready.

How to Properly Store Leftover Bagels

If you plan to eat your bagels within a few days, room temperature or refrigeration both work—just make sure they’re wrapped well.

Short-term storage tips:

• Let bagels cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.
• Place in a zip-top bag or airtight container.
• Keep at room temperature for 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Avoid putting warm bagels in containers—they’ll sweat and turn mushy.

Best Way to Freeze for Long-Term Use

These bagels freeze beautifully. If you want to stock up for future breakfasts or snacks, here’s how:

1. Let bagels cool completely.
2. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or foil.
3. Place them in a labeled freezer bag or container.
4. Store flat in the freezer for up to 3 months.

You can even freeze pre-sliced bagels for easy toasting straight from the freezer.

Reheating Without Losing Moisture or Texture

To bring your bagels back to life (without drying them out), use one of these simple reheating methods:

Method	Instructions
Toaster	Toast halves directly from frozen or chilled for crisp edges.
Oven	Bake at 300°F for 8–10 minutes (wrap in foil for softer texture).
Air Fryer	280°F for 3–4 minutes (best for a quick crisp).
Microwave	Wrap in a damp paper towel and heat 20–30 seconds (for soft texture).

Pro Tip: Always reheat bagels with toppings added after, not before—unless you’re going for a melty cheese version.

Meal Prep Ideas Using Cottage Cheese Bagels

Want to turn your bagels into balanced, grab-and-go meals? Try these combos:

• Breakfast Sandwich: Bagel + egg + spinach + turkey bacon
• Open-Face Lunch: Bagel + hummus + cucumbers + feta
• Post-Workout Snack: Bagel + peanut butter + banana slices
• Mini Pizzas: Halve bagel, add marinara + cheese + turkey pepperoni and air fry

Pair with fruit, Greek yogurt, or a smoothie to keep your meals high in protein and satisfaction.

FAQs About Cottage Cheese Bagels

Is cottage cheese good for bagels?

Absolutely. Cottage cheese is one of the best ingredients you can add to bagels—especially if you’re trying to increase protein and reduce calories. It creates a moist, chewy texture and provides a rich source of casein protein, which digests slowly and keeps you feeling full longer. When blended and added to dough, it enhances flavor without adding unhealthy fats or sugar. In short: it’s a clean, nutritious upgrade for your bagel recipe.

How do you make Bethenny Frankel’s viral cottage cheese bagel?

Bethenny Frankel’s viral bagel recipe is incredibly simple and quick. Here’s her signature version:

1. Blend 1 cup of cottage cheese until smooth.
2. Mix with 1 cup self-rising flour (or all-purpose + baking powder + salt).
3. Knead until a dough forms.
4. Shape into bagels.
5. Brush with egg and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
6. Air fry at 300°F for 13–15 minutes until golden.

It’s the perfect no-fuss recipe that delivers high-protein results in under 20 minutes.

Why do bodybuilders eat cottage cheese before bed?

Cottage cheese contains casein, a slow-digesting protein ideal for muscle repair and growth during sleep. When bodybuilders eat cottage cheese before bed, they give their bodies a steady supply of amino acids over several hours. This prevents muscle breakdown and enhances overnight recovery, making it a popular late-night snack in the fitness world. Incorporating it into bagels just makes it more fun and versatile.

How many calories are in a cottage cheese bagel?

Each cottage cheese bagel (based on the 4-serving recipe provided) contains approximately:

• 140–160 calories
• 11–13 grams of protein
• 18–20 grams of carbs
• 3–4 grams of fat

This makes it a lower-calorie alternative to traditional bagels, which often exceed 250 calories with far less protein. It’s ideal for anyone on a calorie-conscious or high-protein diet.

Conclusion

Cottage cheese bagels aren’t just another viral food trend—they’re a game-changing, protein-packed solution for anyone looking to eat smarter without giving up flavor or satisfaction. Whether you’re following Bethenny Frankel’s social-famous method or customizing your own savory version, this recipe is a go-to for clean eating, fitness fuel, and busy mornings.

They’re quick to make, easy to store, and endlessly versatile with toppings and flavors. From pre-workout breakfasts to guilt-free late-night snacks, cottage cheese bagels are truly a modern kitchen essential.

Don’t miss our easy sesame ground chicken recipe for another high-protein, quick-prep meal idea.

Looking for more?

• Discover great ideas like easy pepper steak recipe for a full protein-packed dinner.
• Learn more about delicious shrimp alfredo if you’re in the mood for creamy and comforting.
• Check out delicious cinnamon dessert pizza recipe for a sweet and satisfying finish.

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