If you love homemade bread but don’t want the hassle of boiling dough or waiting hours for yeast to rise, these Garlic Parmesan Cottage Cheese Bagels are about to become your new favorite recipe. Soft on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and bursting with savory garlic and cheesy flavor, they’re perfect for busy mornings, relaxed brunches, or a satisfying snack any time of day.

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Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cottage cheese
2 large eggs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
Extra grated Parmesan cheese, for topping

Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Cottage Cheese Bagels

Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Combine dry ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Mix wet ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together the cottage cheese, eggs, olive oil, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese until mostly smooth.
Form the dough
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Knead briefly
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 2–3 minutes until smooth and cohesive.
Divide and shape
Cut the dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball.
Create the bagel shape
Press a hole through the center of each ball and gently stretch to form a bagel.
Prepare for baking
Place the bagels on the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle generously with extra Parmesan cheese.
Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bagels are lightly golden and set through the center.
Cool and enjoy
Let cool for a few minutes before serving warm.

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Pro Tips

Use small-curd cottage cheese for a smoother dough texture
Don’t over-knead; a short knead keeps the bagels tender
For extra flavor, add a pinch of Italian seasoning or garlic powder on top

Why This Recipe Works

Cottage cheese adds moisture and protein for soft, fluffy bagels
No boiling step saves time and effort
Parmesan and garlic create a bold, savory flavor without extra fat

Substitutions & Variations

Greek yogurt: Swap cottage cheese with thick Greek yogurt for a tangier taste
Cheese swap: Try Asiago or sharp cheddar instead of Parmesan
Herb version: Add chopped parsley, chives, or rosemary to the dough

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make-ahead: Shape the dough and refrigerate up to 12 hours before baking
Storage: Keep baked bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days
Freezing: Freeze fully cooled bagels for up to 1 month
Reheating: Warm in a toaster oven or oven at 300°F until heated through

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Serving Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Cottage Cheese Bagels

Slice and toast with butter or cream cheese
Use as a base for breakfast sandwiches
Serve alongside soups, salads, or scrambled eggs

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: ~220 kcal
Protein: ~11 g
Carbohydrates: ~28 g
Fat: ~7 g

Values are estimates and may vary.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are these bagels chewy like traditional bagels?
They’re softer and more tender, with a slightly dense but fluffy texture.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Do I need a mixer?
No, this dough comes together easily by hand.

These Garlic Parmesan Cottage Cheese Bagels prove that homemade bagels don’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients, bold flavor, and a quick bake time, they’re an easy win for breakfast, brunch, or snacking.