If you have been searching for a delightful breakfast or snack option that’s both satisfying and packed with nutrition, this Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe is an absolute game-changer. These bagels come out perfectly golden and fluffy with a slight crisp on the outside, all while being incredibly simple to make using just a few wholesome ingredients. The cottage cheese adds an unexpected boost of protein and moisture, making every bite irresistibly tender. Using the air fryer means less mess and quicker cooking, so you can enjoy homemade bagels anytime without the fuss of traditional baking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of basic ingredients that work harmoniously to create a delicious and protein-packed treat. Each component plays a crucial role, from the flour providing structure, the baking powder giving lift, to the cottage cheese adding richness and moisture, resulting in bagels you’ll want to make again and again.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base that gives the bagels their classic texture and chew.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the bagels rise and become light and fluffy.
- Pinch of salt (optional): Enhances the flavor by balancing the sweetness and richness.
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons cottage cheese (2% or 4%): The star ingredient providing protein and moistness for tender bagels.
- 1 egg (optional, for egg wash): Creates a beautiful golden crust and helps toppings stick.
- Everything seasoning: Adds a savory explosion of flavor with garlic, onion, and sesame seeds.
- Poppy seeds: Adds a subtle nutty crunch and visual appeal.
- Sesame seeds: For extra flavor depth and texture on top of the bagels.
How to Make Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
Start by adding the flour to a medium bowl along with baking powder and a pinch of salt if you’re using it. Mix these together thoroughly to ensure the baking powder is evenly distributed. This step is essential for even rising when the bagels bake in the air fryer.
Step 2: Mix Dough
Create a well in the center of the dry mixture and spoon in your cottage cheese. Stir gently with a fork or rubber spatula. You’ll begin to see a chunky dough come together—this texture is exactly what you want. If you prefer, this is also the time to use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for easier mixing.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn your dough out onto a surface dusted with flour to prevent sticking. Knead for about 1 to 2 minutes until the dough becomes a semi-smooth ball. If it feels sticky as you work, just sprinkle a bit more flour or dust your hands lightly. This kneading develops the dough’s structure and elasticity, making for bagels that hold their shape well during cooking.
Step 4: Shape Bagels
Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6 to 7 inch long log about three-quarters of an inch thick. Then, bring the ends together and pinch to form perfect bagel rings. Each shaped dough portion awaits its transformation into a golden delight.
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash
Whisk the egg with a splash of water or milk until smooth, then brush this over each bagel using a pastry brush. This not only contributes to a gorgeous golden crust but also acts like glue for your toppings, ensuring those everything seasoning, poppy seeds, and sesame seeds cling on securely during air frying.
Step 6: Preheat Air Fryer & Prepare Basket
Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (that’s about 150°C). Prepare the basket by either spraying it lightly with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. This step keeps your bagels from sticking to the basket and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 7: Air Fry Bagels
Place as many bagels as will fit comfortably in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If necessary, work in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent even cooking. Air fry the bagels for 15 to 17 minutes, checking at about 10 minutes to keep an eye on their color. Timing may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model, so trust your eyes as much as the clock.
Step 8: Cool & Serve
Once golden brown and inviting, carefully remove your bagels from the air fryer and let them cool on a rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This resting step helps set their crumb so they slice cleanly and hold their shape beautifully.
How to Serve Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe, consider classic spreads like cream cheese or avocado, sprinkled with fresh herbs like chives or dill. A swipe of tangy smoked salmon or a few slices of ripe tomato can turn this simple bagel into a luxurious treat that’s perfect any time of day.
Side Dishes
Pair these protein-packed bagels with fresh fruit or a bright green salad for a complete meal. They also complement a bowl of hearty soup on chilly days, making your breakfast or lunch extra comforting without weighing you down.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the bagels and create mini sandwiches with hummus and roasted veggies or turkey and mustard. You can even toast them lightly and top with melted cheese and herbs for a quick snack that impresses with ease.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftover bagels, store them tightly wrapped in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps their freshness intact while maintaining that delightful texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freezing your Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe works beautifully. Wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and then place them inside a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to three months, ensuring you always have a homemade, protein-rich snack ready to go.
Reheating
Thaw frozen bagels at room temperature or toast them straight from frozen for a quick warm-up. Using a toaster or your air fryer for a few minutes will refresh the crust’s crispiness and restore the soft interior, making them taste just as good as fresh.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, while all-purpose flour works best for the texture and rise, you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or a gluten-free blend if needed. Keep in mind the texture and rise may vary slightly.
Is it necessary to use the egg wash?
The egg wash is optional but highly recommended. It helps the bagels develop a beautiful golden color and allows toppings to stick better. If you prefer not to use it, you can lightly brush with milk or just skip this step.
Can I add other toppings besides everything seasoning?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a sweet variation. The bagels are very versatile.
How long do these bagels stay fresh?
Freshly made Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe are best enjoyed within 2 days when stored properly. Beyond that, freezing is your best bet for maintaining quality.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes! You can prepare and shape the dough up to a day ahead and keep it refrigerated, covered tightly. Just allow the dough to come to room temperature before air frying for the best results.
Final Thoughts
Making Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a homemade bagel experience that’s quick, nutritious, and utterly delicious. Once you try these, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for anything less. So grab your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and treat yourself to bagels that truly satisfy both your taste buds and your body.
Print
Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-17 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels are a quick, healthy twist on traditional bagels made with cottage cheese for added protein and moisture. Perfectly golden and fluffy, they’re air-fried for a crispy outside and tender inside, finished with flavorful toppings like everything seasoning, poppy, and sesame seeds.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons cottage cheese (2% or 4%)
- 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)
Toppings
- Everything seasoning
- Poppy seeds
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt if using, ensuring they are evenly combined.
- Mix Dough: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the cottage cheese. Stir with a fork or rubber spatula until a chunky dough forms. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a well-floured surface and knead by hand for 1-2 minutes until a semi-smooth ball forms. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle additional flour or coat your hands lightly with flour while kneading. This step can also be done using a stand mixer with the dough hook.
- Shape Bagels: Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a 6-7 inch long log about 3/4 inch thick, then join the ends to form a traditional bagel shape. Repeat with all four portions.
- Apply Egg Wash: Crack and whisk the egg with a splash of water or milk. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush this egg wash over each bagel to help toppings adhere and to create a golden, glossy crust.
- Preheat Air Fryer & Prepare Basket: Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Air Fry Bagels: Place the shaped bagels in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook in batches. Air fry for 15-17 minutes until the bagels are golden brown. Check around 10 minutes to monitor progress, as cooking times may vary by air fryer model.
- Cool & Serve: Remove the golden and fluffy bagels from the air fryer and let them cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving to ensure the texture sets properly.
Notes
- Use cottage cheese with 2% or 4% fat content for best texture and flavor.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, these bagels can be baked in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20 minutes.
- For a dairy-free option, swap cottage cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and use a flax egg if avoiding eggs.
- Adding seasoning to the dough itself can add extra flavor before shaping.
- The dough may be slightly sticky; flour your hands well for shaping.
