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If you’re on the hunt for a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic favorite, look no further than the Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe. These bagels are wonderfully fluffy and loaded with protein thanks to the creamy cottage cheese, making them an ideal option for breakfast, a snack, or even a light lunch. Plus, cooking them in the air fryer means you get a perfectly golden crust without turning on your oven, keeping things quick, easy, and mess-free. Trust me, once you try this recipe, your bagel game will never be the same!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in crafting these perfect bagels. From the flour that provides the structure to the cottage cheese that brings moisture and protein, every component works together beautifully to create a soft yet sturdy bagel with just the right amount of chew.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of your bagels that gives them their classic chewiness and shape.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: A gentle leavening agent that helps your bagels rise and become light without the fuss of yeast.
- Pinch of salt (optional): Enhances flavor and balances the dough perfectly.
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons cottage cheese (2% or 4%): Adds creamy moisture and a punch of protein, making these bagels irresistibly soft inside.
- 1 egg (optional, for egg wash): Creates a gorgeous golden exterior and helps toppings stick beautifully.
- Everything seasoning: Sprinkles a savory, aromatic crunch that’s addictively good.
- Poppy seeds: Adds a subtle nutty texture and classic bagel flair.
- Sesame seeds: Offers a toasty, slightly sweet bite that complements the savory dough.
How to Make Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. This ensures your leavening and seasoning are evenly distributed, laying the groundwork for perfectly textured bagels.
Step 2: Mix Dough
Next, create a well in the center of your dry mix and add the cottage cheese. Using a fork or rubber spatula, stir gently until a chunky dough begins to form. If you’d prefer, a stand mixer with a dough hook can make this step even easier and more hands-off.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn your dough out onto a well-floured surface and knead it by hand for about 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes a semi-smooth ball. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour on your hands or the surface to keep it manageable. This step builds the bagel’s chewy texture, so don’t rush it!
Step 4: Shape Bagels
Divide your dough evenly into four portions. Roll each one into a 6 to 7-inch-long log that’s roughly three-quarters of an inch thick. Carefully connect the ends to create that iconic bagel shape. Repeat until all four bagels are formed and ready for their golden transformation.
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash
Whisk together the egg with a splash of water or milk to make a simple egg wash. Gently brush this over each bagel—this little step helps your chosen toppings cling on and creates a beautifully glossy, golden crust during cooking.
Step 6: Preheat Air Fryer & Prepare Basket
Set your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and give the basket a quick spritz with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Preheating ensures your bagels start cooking immediately and evenly.
Step 7: Air Fry Bagels
Place the bagels in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. If your air fryer is smaller, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Air fry for 15 to 17 minutes, keeping an eye around the 10-minute mark to make sure they’re browning nicely. Every air fryer cooks a bit differently, so this check-in is key to perfect results.
Step 8: Cool & Serve
Once your bagels are a gorgeous golden brown and fluffy, carefully remove them from the basket and let them cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the texture set and prevents tearing when you cut into them.
How to Serve Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe
Garnishes
These bagels are a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch. A schmear of cream cheese is a classic choice, but why not try avocado slices, smoked salmon, or a drizzle of honey for an exciting flavor boost? Sprinkle on some fresh herbs or a pinch more of everything seasoning to elevate the experience.
Side Dishes
Pair your Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels with a fresh fruit salad for a bright contrast or a simple green salad drizzled with balsamic glaze for an easy, balanced meal. They also make excellent companions to scrambled eggs or your favorite protein-packed smoothie for breakfast on the go.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these bagels into personalized mini sandwiches by stuffing them with your favorite deli meats, cheeses, and crunchy veggies. Alternatively, slice and toast them lightly, then spread with nut butter and banana slices for a delightful sweet snack that’s still packed with protein.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any uneaten bagels fresh by storing them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain their softness, avoid refrigeration, which can dry them out quickly.
Freezing
To enjoy these Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels later, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months, making them perfect for meal prep or quick breakfasts on busy mornings.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen bagels, thaw them at room temperature or pop them straight into the toaster or air fryer at a low temperature until warm and lightly crisped. This quick reheating brings back that fresh-baked texture and flavor effortlessly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
Yes! While all-purpose flour works best for the ideal texture, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour blends. Just keep in mind that the bagels might turn out denser or have a slightly different crumb depending on your choice.
Is it necessary to use an egg wash?
Egg wash is optional but highly recommended. It helps the toppings stick and gives the bagels that inviting, shiny golden crust. If you prefer to avoid eggs, a light brush of milk or water can also help, although it won’t create quite the same shine.
Can I add flavors to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding minced garlic, dried herbs, or even a pinch of cinnamon and sugar can transform the bagels into a new flavor adventure. Just mix these additions into the dry ingredients before combining with cottage cheese.
Why use the air fryer instead of a traditional oven?
The air fryer speeds up cooking time and produces a crisp outer crust without drying out the interior. It’s more energy-efficient and keeps your kitchen cooler—plus, clean-up is a breeze with less mess involved.
How do I know when the bagels are done?
You’ll want to look for a golden brown color all over and a firm, springy texture when lightly pressed. Because air fryer models vary, checking around the 10-minute mark helps you avoid over- or undercooking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to upgrade your breakfast or snack routine with something wholesome, tasty, and downright fun to make, the Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe will not disappoint. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy bagels that are light, packed with protein, and perfectly golden every time. Trust me, these bagels will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen too!
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Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels are a quick and healthy homemade snack or breakfast option, featuring a high-protein dough made with cottage cheese and cooked to perfection in the air fryer. They come out golden brown, fluffy, and can be customized with your favorite toppings like everything seasoning, poppy seeds, or 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)
- Splash of water or milk (for egg wash)
Toppings
- Everything seasoning
- Poppy seeds
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the flour to a medium bowl and mix together with the 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 it starts forming a chunky dough. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
- 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. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a 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 bagel shape. Repeat with all 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 create a golden crust.
- Preheat Air Fryer & Prepare Basket: Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Spray the basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Air Fry Bagels: Place the bagels in a single layer inside the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed. Air fry for 15-17 minutes until golden brown, checking around 10 minutes to monitor progress as cooking times can 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.
Notes
- Make sure to knead the dough just until smooth to avoid tough bagels.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but avoid making it too dry.
- Use low-fat or regular cottage cheese based on your dietary preference.
- Customize toppings to your liking—everything seasoning, sesame seeds, and poppy seeds all work well.
- Letting bagels cool helps them set and makes slicing easier without tearing.
