These Cottage Cheese Almond Flour Bagels are a delicious twist on a classic! Packed with protein and gluten-free, they offer a soft and chewy texture that you’ll love.
Whenever I make these bagels, I can’t help but snack on them fresh out of the oven. They’re perfect with a spread of cream cheese or just enjoyed plain—so yummy! 🥯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Almond Flour: This is the star of your bagels, offering a nutty flavor and gluten-free attributes. If you don’t have it, you can use coconut flour, but be cautious with the amount, as it’s more absorbent. A good rule is to use 1/3 of the almond flour amount.
Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese gives these bagels creaminess and protein. If you want a lower-fat option, 1% or 2% works too. Greek yogurt can also be swapped in for a tangier flavor and a similar texture.
Eggs: They help bind the dough and give it structure. If you’re vegan, use flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
Optional Seasonings: The garlic and onion powders add depth. If you’re not a fan, try other spices like Italian seasoning or even a little cayenne for heat! Personal tip: add fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost.
How Do I Shape the Bagels Without Making a Mess?
Shaping bagels might seem tricky, but it’s simple with a bit of practice. After mixing your dough, follow these steps:
- Lightly sprinkle some almond flour on your work surface to keep the dough from sticking.
- Grab a portion of the dough and roll it into a ball. If it’s too sticky, dampen your hands slightly.
- Use your finger to poke a hole in the center of the ball. Slowly stretch the hole out to create the bagel shape.
- Carefully transfer it to the baking sheet and adjust the shape as necessary. It’s okay if it’s not perfect; they’ll still be delicious!
Practice makes perfect, and you’ll get the hang of it soon. Enjoy the process! It’s rewarding to see your bagels take shape.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Almond Flour Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour (blanched)
- 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese (full-fat, well-drained)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional, for flavor)
- 1 tsp onion powder (optional, for flavor)
For the Toppings:
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1 tbsp everything bagel seasoning (optional)
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg white
For Serving:
- Cottage cheese or cream cheese (for filling or topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, resulting in delicious bagels ready in about 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and get it warmed up. While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the bagels from sticking.
2. Make the Dough:
In a food processor or blender, combine almond flour, cottage cheese, eggs, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Pulse or blend until the mixture becomes a smooth, sticky dough that holds together nicely.
3. Divide the Dough:
Take the dough out of the processor and divide it into 4 equal portions. Don’t worry about being too precise—just make sure each piece is roughly the same size!
4. Shape the Bagels:
Roll each portion into a ball. Then, poke a hole in the center of each ball with your finger, and gently stretch it out to form a bagel shape. Place the shaped bagels on your prepared baking sheet.
5. Prepare for Baking:
In a small bowl, whisk the egg white until it’s slightly frothy. Brush this egg wash over the top of each bagel to give them a nice golden color when baked.
6. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the chopped almonds, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and everything bagel seasoning generously over each bagel. You can adjust the amounts based on your taste preferences—be creative!
7. Bake the Bagels:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown and fully set. Keep an eye on them towards the end to make sure they don’t over-bake.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once they are done, carefully remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Once they’re cool, slice them open and spread some cottage cheese or cream cheese inside or on top. Enjoy!
These low-carb, high-protein bagels make a fantastic snack or breakfast option that fits perfectly into a keto-friendly diet. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While full-fat cottage cheese provides a creamier texture, low-fat cottage cheese works just as well. Just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your dough.
What Can I Use Instead of Almond Flour?
If you don’t have almond flour on hand, you can use coconut flour, but reduce the amount to about 1/3 cup, as it’s much more absorbent. You may need to add extra liquid to maintain the correct dough consistency.
How Do I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen—just wrap in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Thaw them in the fridge or toast directly from frozen when ready to eat.
