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Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 35 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 17 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 4 bagels
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

These Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels are a delicious, high-protein twist on classic bagels, made quickly and easily in the air fryer. Soft, fluffy, and golden on the outside with a tender crumb inside, they are perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack option. Topped with everything seasoning, poppy seeds, or sesame seeds, these bagels bring flavor and nutrition together for a satisfying treat.


Ingredients

Scale

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)
  • Water or milk (a splash for egg wash)

Toppings

  • Everything seasoning
  • Poppy seeds
  • Sesame seeds


Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt (if using) into a medium bowl. Mix well to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
  2. Mix Dough: Create a well in the center of the dry mixture and add the cottage cheese. Stir with a fork or rubber spatula until the ingredients start forming a chunky dough. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
  3. 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, add a little more flour or dust your hands with flour while kneading. Alternatively, knead using a stand mixer with the dough hook.
  4. Shape Bagels: Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll each portion into a 6-7 inch long log, approximately 3/4 inch thick. Then carefully join the ends to form a traditional bagel shape. Repeat with remaining dough portions.
  5. Apply Egg Wash: Crack the egg into a small bowl, whisk it with a splash of water or milk. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat each bagel with the egg wash. This helps the toppings stick better and promotes a golden crust during cooking.
  6. Preheat Air Fryer & Prepare Basket: Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  7. Air Fry Bagels: Place the bagels in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Depending on size, cook in batches if necessary. Air fry for 15-17 minutes until they turn golden brown, checking around the 10-minute mark to monitor progress, as cooking times may vary by air fryer model.
  8. Cool & Serve: Carefully remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool for at least 15 minutes on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This resting time allows the texture to set perfectly.

Notes

  • You can customize toppings by using your favorite seeds or seasonings.
  • If you want a softer crust, you can skip the egg wash and brush with milk or water instead.
  • Ensure your air fryer basket is not overcrowded to allow even cooking and browning.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but results may vary.
  • Leftover bagels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  • Reheat bagels in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to refresh their crispiness.