Soft & Chewy Garlic Parmesan Protein Bagels

Soft & Chewy Garlic Parmesan Protein Bagels

Made with Cottage Cheese • High-Protein • No Yeast

Makes: 6 bagels
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: about 40 minutes

🛒 Ingredients

Bagel Dough

• 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese, blended completely smooth
• 1 large egg
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Top

• 1–2 tbsp grated Parmesan
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 egg beaten with 1 tsp water, for brushing

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the cottage cheese
   Blend the cottage cheese until completely smooth and creamy. This helps create a softer, more uniform bagel dough.
2. Mix the wet ingredients
   Add the blended cottage cheese and egg to a large bowl. Whisk until well combined.
3. Add the dry ingredients
   Add flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan. Stir until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead gently
   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for about 1–2 minutes, just until the dough comes together. Avoid over-kneading, which can make the bagels tougher.
5. Shape the bagels
   Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a rope, then connect the ends to form a bagel shape. Pinch the seam together firmly.
6. Prepare for baking
   Place the bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg.

Mix the Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, then sprinkle over the bagels.

7. Bake
   Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for approximately 20–25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
8. Cool
   Let the bagels cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. They will become easier to handle as they cool.

💡 Tips for the Best Texture

• Blend the cottage cheese very smooth for the softest dough.
• If the dough feels very sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time rather than adding a lot at once.
• Don’t overwork the dough.
• For extra garlic flavor, add a little freshly minced garlic to the topping.
• Toast the sliced bagels before serving for crisp edges and a soft center.

🍳 Serving Ideas

Serve warm with:

• Whipped cream cheese
• Cottage cheese spread
• Turkey or chicken slices
• Scrambled eggs
• Avocado
• A little butter and extra Parmesan