These bagels are super easy to make with just three ingredients: cottage cheese, flour, and baking powder. They’re fluffy, delicious, and perfect for breakfast!
I love how you can whip these up in no time. They’re great with cream cheese or just a sprinkle of salt. Plus, you can say you made bagels—how cool is that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the star of the recipe, providing moisture and protein. You can use either full-fat or low-fat based on your preference. Greek yogurt can be a good alternative if you want a creamier texture.
Egg: The egg binds the ingredients together and helps with rising. If you’re avoiding eggs, try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) to substitute!
Self-Rising Flour: It’s easy to work with since it has baking powder mixed in. If you don’t have it, you can make your own by combining 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour with 2.25 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt.
Sesame Seeds: These are optional but add a nice crunch and flavor. Feel free to swap them out for everything bagel seasoning, poppy seeds, or even skip it altogether for a plain bagel.
How Do I Knead Dough For Perfect Bagels?
Kneading is essential for developing the dough’s structure and making the bagels chewy. Here’s how to do it:
- First, dust your surface lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
- Take your dough and fold it over with the palms of your hands, pushing it down and away from you.
- Rotate the dough a quarter turn after each fold. Repeat gently for about 1-2 minutes.
- Check if it feels smooth and elastic; if it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
Don’t over-knead, as this can make the bagels tough. Aim for a soft, pliable dough!
How to Make 3-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour (plus extra for dusting)
- Sesame seeds for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake, so you’re looking at approximately 35 minutes in total from start to finish. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Cottage Cheese and Egg:
In a mixing bowl, add the cottage cheese and the large egg. Mix them together until they’re well combined. A fork works well for mashing the cottage cheese to achieve a smoother texture, or you can use a hand mixer for a quick blend!
3. Add the Flour:
Gradually sprinkle in the self-rising flour while stirring the mixture with a spoon or spatula. Keep mixing until you form a soft dough. If the dough feels too sticky when you touch it, just add a little more flour to help it come together.
4. Knead the Dough:
Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Knead it gently for about 1-2 minutes until it’s smooth. Remember to be gentle—you don’t want to over-knead!
5. Shape the Bagels:
Divide the dough into 4 to 6 equal pieces, depending on how big you’d like your bagels to be. Take each piece and roll it into a ball. Then, using your finger, poke a hole through the center and gently stretch it into that classic bagel shape.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Place the bagels on the prepared baking sheet. If you’d like a shiny finish, use a pastry brush to lightly coat the tops with some beaten egg (this step is optional). Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a bit of flavor and texture, if desired.
7. Bake:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake the bagels for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should turn a lovely golden brown and be cooked all the way through.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once they are done baking, take the bagels out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Enjoy them warm, plain, or with your favorite toppings!
Enjoy your quick and easy 3-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Bagels!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Alternatives?
Yes! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute cottage cheese with a non-dairy yogurt or a thick dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Ensure it has a similar consistency for the best results.
How Should I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Absolutely! You can customize your bagels with various toppings, such as everything bagel seasoning, poppy seeds, or even shredded cheese before baking. Just remember to sprinkle them on top after applying the egg wash for the best adherence.
What If the Dough Is Too Sticky?
If you find the dough is too sticky to handle, simply dust your hands and work surface with a little extra flour. Add a tablespoon of flour at a time while kneading until the dough reaches a manageable consistency. Just be careful not to add too much flour, as that can make the bagels tough!