Description
These protein-packed bagels are a quick and easy homemade alternative to traditional bagels, made with cottage cheese, flour, and baking powder. They’re soft, fluffy, and perfect for a nutritious breakfast or snack. Cooked using an air fryer, these bagels require minimal ingredients and no yeast, making them a convenient choice for a high-protein treat with customizable toppings.
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: 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. Alternatively, you can 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 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 bagel shape. Repeat with all four dough 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 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
- Adding salt to the dry ingredients is optional but enhances flavor.
- You can customize your bagel toppings with seeds, herbs, or seasoning blends as desired.
- Do not skip the cooling step to allow the bagels to set properly inside before slicing.
- If the dough feels too sticky, add flour gradually to avoid tough bagels.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model and basket size; adjust accordingly.
- Egg wash is optional but recommended for a shiny, golden finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-17 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American