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If you’ve ever wanted a delicious, protein-packed breakfast that’s easy to whip up and perfectly golden-crisp, then the Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe is your new best friend. These bagels combine the creamy tang of cottage cheese with the satisfying chewiness of a classic bagel, baked to perfection with a quick air fryer spin. They’re fluffy on the inside, slightly crispy on the outside, and packed with enough protein to keep you energized all morning long. Whether you’re a busy morning go-getter or just looking to upgrade your brunch game, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the idea of making bagels at home; this recipe uses just a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that come together magically. Each one plays a starring role, from the all-purpose flour providing structure, to cottage cheese adding moisture and protein, and the seeds sprinkling a delightful crunch and flavor on top.
- All-purpose flour: The main building block of the dough offers that classic chewiness you expect in a bagel.
- Baking powder: Helps the bagels rise just enough to be soft and fluffy without heaviness.
- Salt (optional): A pinch amplifies all the flavors in the dough without overpowering.
- Cottage cheese: Adds protein, moisture, and a creamy tang that makes these bagels stand out.
- Egg (optional for egg wash): Creates a gorgeous, glossy crust and helps toppings stick better.
- Everything seasoning: The perfect savory mix that adds flavor and texture to the top of each bagel.
- Poppy seeds and sesame seeds: Classic bagel toppings that bring a nutty finish and visual appeal.
How to Make Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
Start by mixing your all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl ensuring uniform distribution. This step creates the foundation for the dough, ensuring every bite has consistent flavor and texture.
Step 2: Mix Dough
Next, make a well in the center of your dry ingredients and add the cottage cheese. Stir using a fork or rubber spatula until the mixture begins to clump together into a chunky dough. If you prefer, a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook is perfect to speed up this step and ensure even mixing.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently for 1-2 minutes until it forms a semi-smooth ball. Don’t worry if it’s slightly sticky—lightly dust your hands and the surface with flour to manage the texture. This knead helps develop a tender crumb that makes these bagels so special.
Step 4: Shape Bagels
Divide your dough into four equal parts. Roll each piece into a 6 to 7-inch log, about three-quarters of an inch thick, then carefully join the ends to shape classic bagels. This step is so satisfying because you get to see your creations come to life.
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash
Whisk the egg with a splash of water or milk and brush it gently over each bagel with a pastry brush. This glaze helps the bagels develop a beautifully golden crust and keeps your toppings perfectly in place.
Step 6: Preheat Air Fryer & Prepare Basket
Set your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or use parchment paper to prevent your bagels from sticking. This preparation is key to achieve that flawless bake without any mess sticking to the basket.
Step 7: Air Fry Bagels
Place the bagels in a single layer inside the air fryer basket—if they don’t all fit at once, no worries, simply cook in batches. Air fry for 15-17 minutes, checking at around 10 minutes to ensure even browning. Each air fryer model varies a bit, so keep a close eye to catch that perfect golden hue.
Step 8: Cool & Serve
Once golden and firm, carefully remove your bagels and let them cool for at least 15 minutes. This resting time allows them to set, making slicing easier and enhancing the texture for the perfect bite.
How to Serve Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these bagels, consider topping them with a schmear of cream cheese, a few slices of smoked salmon, or even a dollop of your favorite jam. Fresh herbs like dill or chives add a vibrant pop of color and flavor that complements the slight tang from the cottage cheese beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your bagels with refreshing sides such as a crisp cucumber salad, fresh fruit medley, or scrambled eggs. These sides balance the protein-rich bagels perfectly and turn your meal into a satisfying and vibrant feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the bagels horizontally to create mini sandwiches filled with avocado, turkey, or roasted veggies for a delightful lunch option. You can also toast them lightly and serve with flavored butter or a drizzle of honey for a sweet-and-savory treat that dazzles any time of day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store your bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them from getting dry. For best texture, it’s ideal to consume within this time frame or refrigerate if you want a slightly longer shelf life.
Freezing
Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. This method keeps them fresh for up to three months, making it easy to enjoy a protein boost anytime.
Reheating
To bring frozen or leftover bagels back to life, toast them lightly or reheat in your air fryer at 300°F for around 3-5 minutes. This refreshes their crusty exterior and keeps the inside wonderfully soft and tender.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese will still yield tasty bagels, though the texture may be slightly less rich. It’s a great option if you’re watching calories but still want the protein boost.
Do I have to use an air fryer for this recipe?
While the air fryer gives these bagels a quick and beautifully crispy crust, you can also bake them in a traditional oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, though the texture will differ slightly.
Can I add other toppings besides everything seasoning, sesame, and poppy seeds?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with toppings like dried onion flakes, coarse salt, or even everything bagel seasoning blends with garlic and onion for an extra flavor punch.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This particular recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, experimenting with gluten-free flour blends could work, though you may notice a change in texture.
How do I make sure the bagels don’t stick to the air fryer basket?
Pre-spraying the basket with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper is essential to prevent sticking. Also, avoid overcrowding the basket to allow even airflow and easy removal.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making your own bagels, especially when they’re packed with protein and made right in your air fryer! The Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe is a fantastic way to bring joy and nutrition to your mornings without spending hours in the kitchen. Once you try them, I’m confident these bagels will become a beloved part of your go-to meals, perfect for any time you want a wholesome, flavorful bite with minimal fuss. Give this recipe a whirl and enjoy every chewy, golden moment!
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Protein Cottage Cheese Bagels in the Air Fryer Recipe
- 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 quick and healthy twist on traditional bagels, made easy in the air fryer. Soft, fluffy, and packed with protein from cottage cheese, they are perfect for a nutritious breakfast or snack. Topped with everything seasoning, poppy seeds, or sesame seeds, these bagels offer a flavorful and wholesome option that comes together with minimal ingredients and effort.
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 thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
- Mix Dough: Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the cottage cheese. Stir together using a fork or rubber spatula until a chunky dough begins to form. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for easier mixing.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a well-floured surface and knead by hand for about 1-2 minutes until a semi-smooth dough ball forms. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour or lightly flour your hands to keep it manageable. This can also be done using a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- Shape Bagels: Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each piece into a log about 6-7 inches long and approximately 3/4 inch thick. Join the ends of each log to form a bagel shape. Repeat for all portions.
- Apply Egg Wash: Crack the egg into a small bowl, add a splash of water or milk, and whisk well. Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the surface of each bagel with the egg wash to help toppings stick and to promote a golden, shiny crust.
- Preheat Air Fryer & Prepare Basket: Set your air fryer to preheat at 300°F (150°C). Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Air Fry Bagels: Arrange the bagels in a single layer in the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary. Air fry for 15-17 minutes, checking around the 10-minute mark to monitor browning as air fryer models vary.
- Cool & Serve: Carefully remove the baked bagels from the air fryer and allow them to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy their soft and fluffy texture with your favorite spreads or toppings.
Notes
- You can adjust the flour quantity as needed if the dough feels too sticky; a little extra flour won’t hurt.
- If you want a dairy-free or vegan alternative, substitute the cottage cheese and egg wash accordingly, but texture may vary.
- Adding different toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning enhances flavor and texture.
- Letting the bagels cool is essential for the best texture—cutting them too soon may make them crumbly.
- The baking powder acts as a leavening agent, so no yeast or rising time is required, making this recipe quick.
- Cooking time may slightly vary depending on your air fryer model; always check visually to avoid burning.
