Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?

You can, but the texture and protein content will be different. Cottage cheese makes it fluffier and higher in protein.

Nope! The baking powder is enough to get a good rise and fluffy interior.

Can I bake them instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Make soft and chewy cottage cheese bagels in under 30 minutes. High in protein, low effort, and easy to customize with your favorite toppings.

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Mix the dry ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Blend the cottage cheese:
Use a food processor or blender to blend the cottage cheese until smooth. This makes the dough way easier to work with.
Make the dough:
Add the blended cottage cheese to the dry ingredients. Mix with a fork, then knead by hand until a soft dough forms.
Shape the bagels:
Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center with your finger and gently stretch it into a bagel shape.
Brush and top:
Beat the egg white (or half an egg) and brush it over the tops of each bagel. Sprinkle with your favorite toppings.
Cook:
Air fry at 300°F for 13 minutes, or bake at 375°F for 25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Cool and serve:
Let them cool slightly before slicing. Serve with butter, cream cheese, or make a breakfast sandwich. Enjoy!

Blend the cottage cheese until completely smooth for the softest dough. It makes a big difference!
If the dough feels sticky, just dust your hands with a little flour, don’t overdo it or the bagels will get dense.
No air fryer? No problem. Bake them at 375°F for about 25 minutes until golden.
Want a sweet version? Add a little cinnamon and maple syrup to the dough, then top with raisins or cinnamon sugar.
These freeze well! Wrap individually in foil and reheat in the air fryer or toaster when you need a quick breakfast.