Simple 3 Ingredient Cottage Cheese Protein Bagels | High-Protein Air Fryer Recipe
Discover how to make fluffy, golden bagels with just three simple ingredients! These cottage cheese protein bagels are perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack. Whether baked in the oven or crisped in the air fryer, they’re high in protein, low in effort, and absolutely delicious.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Blender (optional, for smoother cottage cheese)
- Baking sheet or air fryer basket
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 2 cups self-rising flour (or DIY: 2 cups all-purpose flour + 3 tsp baking powder + 1 tsp salt)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (thick, blended if preferred)
- 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)
Optional Toppings:
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Sesame seeds
- Garlic flakes
Instructions
- Prep Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour and cottage cheese. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead Lightly: Knead just until smooth. Avoid overworking to keep bagels soft.
- Shape Bagels: Divide dough into 6 portions. Roll each into a rope and form into rings.
- Add Egg Wash & Toppings: Brush lightly with beaten egg. Sprinkle with desired toppings.
- Air Fryer Method: Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place bagels in basket (don’t overcrowd). Cook 12–15 minutes until golden.
- Oven Method: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake on parchment-lined sheet for 18–20 minutes until golden brown. Rotate tray if needed.
- Cool Slightly: Let bagels rest for 5 minutes before serving for best texture.
Notes
- Use Thick Cottage Cheese: Avoid watery varieties; blend for smoother dough.
- Don’t Over-Knead: Keeps bagels fluffy.
- Check Doneness: Golden outside, cooked inside.
- Storage: Keep in airtight container for 2–3 days. Reheat in toaster or air fryer.
- Freezing: Freeze baked bagels individually; reheat directly from frozen.
- Flavor Variations: Add cinnamon for sweet bagels, herbs for savory, or shredded cheese for extra richness.