If you’re on the hunt for a deliciously wholesome breakfast or snack that packs a punch of protein and flavor, look no further than this Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe. These bagels are wonderfully soft on the inside with a satisfyingly golden crust, thanks to the magic of the air fryer. Using cottage cheese not only boosts the protein content but also keeps the bagels moist and tender. This recipe is a perfect choice whether you’re short on time or just craving a fresh homemade treat that’s both nutritious and easy to whip up. Once you try these bagels, they’ll quickly become a go-to in your kitchen rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the best Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe starts with a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a unique role, from texture to flavor, ensuring you end up with bagels that are soft, fluffy, and perfectly seasoned every time.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base that gives these bagels structure and that classic bagel chewiness.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Acts as the leavening agent to help your bagels rise and become fluffy without yeast.
- Pinch of salt (optional): Enhances all the flavors and balances the slight tang of the cottage cheese.
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons cottage cheese (2% or 4%): Moisturizes the dough while adding a creamy protein boost.
- 1 egg (optional, for egg wash): Gives the bagels a beautiful golden shine and helps toppings stick better.
- Everything seasoning: A flavorful mix that’s perfect for sprinkling on top, adding complexity and crunch.
- Poppy seeds: Adds a subtle nutty crunch and classic bagel aesthetic.
- Sesame seeds: Gives a toasty finish and a pleasant bite.
How to Make Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
Start by combining the flour, baking powder, and an optional pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly ensures your bagels have an even crumb and consistent rise. This first step sets the foundation for a perfect dough texture.
Step 2: Mix Dough
Make a well in the center of your dry ingredients and add the cottage cheese. Stir with a fork or rubber spatula until the mixture begins to form a chunky dough. If you prefer using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and mix until just combined. The cottage cheese introduces moisture and protein, helping create tender, flavorful bagels.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a generously floured surface and knead gently for 1 to 2 minutes until a semi-smooth ball emerges. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour or lightly coat your hands with it. Alternatively, use the stand mixer’s dough hook for this stage. Proper kneading creates structure without overworking the dough, maintaining soft bagels.
Step 4: Shape Bagels
Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each portion into a log around 6 to 7 inches long and approximately 3/4 inch thick. Then, carefully join the ends to shape each into a classic bagel ring. Taking care in this step helps ensure even cooking and that perfect bagel shape that’s so inviting.
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash
Whisk the egg together with a dash of water or milk to make your egg wash. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat each bagel’s surface. This step enhances the bagels’ golden-brown color once cooked and gives toppings a sticky surface to cling to, improving both appearance and taste.
Step 6: Preheat Air Fryer and Prepare Basket
Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). To prevent sticking, spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. Proper preparation here will save you the hassle of stuck-on dough and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 7: Air Fry Bagels
Place the bagels in a single layer inside the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary. Air fry them for 15 to 17 minutes, checking around the 10-minute mark to monitor browning, since times can vary by model. The air fryer ensures these bagels bake evenly and develop a crisp crust without drying out inside.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once golden and fluffy, carefully remove your bagels from the air fryer. Let them cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing—this resting time allows the interior to set perfectly, making for an irresistible bite every time you dig in.
How to Serve Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes transforms your Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe from simple to spectacular. Try spreading cream cheese, layering smoked salmon, or topping with sliced avocado and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Even a dash of hot sauce or a drizzle of honey can elevate the flavor profile in unexpected, delicious ways.
Side Dishes
Pair these bagels with fresh fruit salad for a colorful, refreshing complement, or serve alongside a hearty bowl of soup for a comforting meal. A crisp green salad or a light yogurt parfait also makes excellent company, balancing the protein-rich bagel with fresh, vibrant textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not turn your Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe into a fun brunch centerpiece? Slice them in half and assemble mini sandwiches with various fillings, offering your guests a variety of flavors to explore. Alternatively, cut them into cubes and toast them lightly to serve as croutons in a salad or savory yogurt bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though these bagels rarely stay around long), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the bagels soft without drying out, so they’re ready to enjoy again soon.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap individual bagels tightly in plastic wrap then place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat directly from frozen.
Reheating
Reheat your bagels gently in the air fryer at 300°F for about 3 to 4 minutes or in a toaster oven until warmed through and slightly crisp on the outside. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the texture rubbery rather than airy and fresh.
FAQs
Can I make the dough without cottage cheese?
The cottage cheese is the key ingredient in this recipe, providing moisture and protein, so omitting it would change the texture significantly. For a similar fluffy texture, you might experiment with Greek yogurt, but it won’t be quite the same as the Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe.
Is it necessary to use the egg wash?
While the egg wash helps create a beautiful golden crust and helps toppings stick, it is optional. You can skip it for a slightly softer crust and a more rustic look, but the bagels will still taste amazing either way.
Can I add other seasonings or toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding garlic powder, onion flakes, or even cheese on top before air frying. Everything seasoning, poppy seeds, and sesame seeds are traditional favorites, but the sky is the limit when flavoring your bagels.
How long should I let the bagels cool before eating?
Allow the bagels to cool for at least 15 minutes after cooking. This helps the interior to firm up and makes slicing easier without squishing the bagel’s soft crumb. Plus, it lets the flavors settle for fuller enjoyment.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! This Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe scales up well. Just prepare the dough in a larger bowl and cook the bagels in batches in the air fryer to avoid crowding and ensure even cooking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about homemade bagels, especially when they’re infused with protein and cooked quickly in an air fryer. I hope you enjoy making (and eating) this Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe as much as I do. It’s a perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and wholesome goodness, ready whenever you are to brighten your breakfast or snack time!
Print
Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels are a quick and healthy homemade bagel recipe made in the air fryer. Using cottage cheese and simple pantry staples, these bagels are high in protein, deliciously soft inside with a slightly crispy crust. The air fryer method offers a fast and convenient way to enjoy fresh bagels without boiling or baking in a traditional oven. Topped with your favorite seeds and everything seasoning, they make a perfect breakfast or snack option.
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, add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt (if using). Mix well to evenly combine these dry ingredients.
- Mix Dough: Make a well in the center of the dry mixture and add the cottage cheese. Stir with a fork or rubber spatula until a chunky dough begins to form. Optionally, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a well-floured surface and knead by hand for 1-2 minutes until a semi-smooth ball forms. If sticky, sprinkle additional flour on your hands or the surface. This can also be done with a stand mixer equipped with a dough hook.
- Shape Bagels: Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll each piece into a 6-7 inch log about 3/4 inch thick, then connect the ends to form a bagel shape. Repeat for all portions.
- Apply Egg Wash: Whisk the egg with a splash of water or milk. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the egg wash over each bagel to help the toppings stick and to create a golden crust.
- Preheat Air Fryer & Prepare Basket: Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Air Fry Bagels: Place bagels in a single layer in the basket, cooking in batches if necessary. Air fry for 15-17 minutes until the bagels turn golden brown. Check at the 10-minute mark to monitor browning and doneness as times may vary by air fryer.
- Cool & Serve: Carefully remove the bagels from the air fryer and allow them to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but avoid adding too much to keep the bagels soft.
- Using an egg wash is optional but helps to achieve a golden color and better topping adhesion.
- You can customize toppings by using your favorite seeds or seasonings.
- Ensure bagels are spaced well in the air fryer basket for even cooking.
- Allow bagels to cool completely for better slicing and texture.
