Before I discovered this cottage cheese bagel recipe, I was stuck in a breakfast rut—same toast, same eggs, every morning. One lazy Sunday, in the middle of a post-workout craving for something bready but light, I remembered a video I saw of Bethenny Frankel whipping up bagels using cottage cheese. I had a tub in my fridge, some flour, and no patience for yeast. So, I gave it a go—and wow. Crisp on the outside, fluffy in the center, and packed with protein, these bagels became an instant part of my morning rotation.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through not just how to make them, but why they’re worth baking at home. You’ll learn the story behind their sudden rise in popularity, the health benefits, and why so many foodies are ditching traditional dough for this healthy homemade bagel twist.
Why Cottage Cheese Bagels Are Taking Over the Internet
The Rise of Cottage Cheese in Modern Recipes
If you’ve been anywhere near TikTok, Instagram, or Pinterest lately, you’ve seen it: cottage cheese is everywhere. From whipped cottage cheese dips to protein-packed desserts, this humble ingredient has become the MVP of clean eating and high-protein meals. But what really pushed it into the spotlight was its unexpected role in baking.
The cottage cheese bagel recipe is a prime example of this trend—people are swapping out yeast and milk for cottage cheese and creating soft, chewy bagels without any long proofing times. It’s quick, simple, and satisfies that carb craving while keeping macros in check.
Health Benefits of Cottage Cheese in Baking
One of the biggest reasons this recipe is trending is because of its nutritional perks. Cottage cheese is high in casein protein, which digests slowly and keeps you full longer—great for anyone trying to build muscle or manage their weight. Compared to store-bought bagels, which are often loaded with refined carbs and sugar, this version clocks in at around 150 calories with over 10g of protein per serving.
That makes this not just a bagel alternative, but a smart, macro-friendly breakfast option. Add in some everything bagel seasoning or top it with avocado, and you’ve got a balanced, delicious meal.
How Bethenny Frankel Made Cottage Cheese Bagels Go Viral
Reality star turned lifestyle guru Bethenny Frankel unknowingly kicked off a trend when she shared her magic bagel recipe using whipped cottage cheese. Her video exploded across TikTok, with users praising the golden crust and surprisingly plush interior of these no-yeast wonders.
Since then, food bloggers, chefs, and influencers have been putting their own spin on the cottage cheese bagel recipe—making it sweeter, denser, lighter, or even gluten-free. What started as a quirky video has now become a staple in kitchens everywhere.
Key Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need
Essential Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Bagels
To make a perfect cottage cheese bagel recipe, you don’t need a pantry full of fancy stuff—just a few basics that pack a punch. The star, of course, is cottage cheese. It’s creamy, high in protein, and gives your bagels that soft, fluffy bite.
Here’s your shopping list:
- 1 cup whipped cottage cheese (or blend regular cottage cheese until smooth)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1 egg (for the shiny, golden egg wash)
- A pinch of kosher salt
- Everything bagel seasoning (or sesame, poppy, or whatever you love)
Want to boost flavor while keeping things light? Try adding garlic powder or a pinch of dried herbs. For more protein inspiration, check out this cottage cheese chips recipe from Loaded Recipes—it’s the perfect crunchy side for your bagels!
Optional Add-ins for Flavor and Texture
Here’s where you can get creative. Cottage cheese bagels are like blank slates—they pair well with both sweet and savory toppings. You could mix in chopped chives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even shredded cheese. Feeling sweet? A dash of cinnamon and a touch of honey do the trick.
And for something even more unique, try pairing them with a spread from this cottage cheese flatbread recipe—it’s another protein-packed winner from Loaded Recipes.
Recommended Tools for Easy Bagel Prep
Don’t worry, you don’t need pro gear. But having these tools can save time and mess:
- A blender (for silky-smooth cottage cheese)
- Mixing bowls
- Bench scraper or rubber spatula
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet (preheat it for crispy bottoms!)
- Silicone brush (or your fingers work too, promise)
With just these, you’re all set to dive into the next—and most important—part: making the bagels!
The Best Cottage Cheese Bagel Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Ingredient List and Nutrition Breakdown (Macros, protein, calories)
Let’s talk numbers—because what makes this cottage cheese bagel recipe such a star isn’t just the taste, but how guilt-free it is. On average, each bagel has:
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 11g
- Carbs: 15-18g
- Fat: 3-5g (mostly from the egg and cheese)
That’s what makes it a great option for anyone following a high-protein or weight loss diet. It’s also an easy substitute for typical high-calorie, refined-carb bagels.
Here’s the full ingredient breakdown again:
- 1 cup whipped cottage cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1 egg (for the wash)
- Kosher salt
- Everything bagel seasoning
Pro Tip: For a smoother dough, blend the cottage cheese beforehand. It takes just a minute, but the texture change is worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions With Tips for Success
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your baking sheet inside the oven to preheat as well—this helps create that crispy bottom crust.
- Blend the cottage cheese until smooth. Dump it into a large bowl.
- Mix in the dry ingredients—flour and baking powder. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
- Lightly flour your hands and divide the dough into four equal parts.
- Shape each one into a ball, then use your finger to poke a hole in the middle.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with the egg wash. Sprinkle with salt and seasoning.
- Bake for 25–35 minutes, depending on your oven. You want golden tops and firm bottoms.
Let them rest for at least 10–15 minutes after baking to set the texture. Toasting them later? Even better. They firm up beautifully in the toaster.
Bethenny Frankel’s Two Versions Compared (Whipped Cottage Cheese vs. Greek Yogurt Combo)
Bethenny’s original recipe used just whipped cottage cheese, and the result was super airy and almost English muffin–like. Her second version adds Greek yogurt (½ cup cottage cheese + ½ cup yogurt), but this one turns out denser—and a little gummy in the middle if you’re not careful.
My favorite? Still the whipped-only version. It’s cleaner, lighter, and easier to work with.
Troubleshooting: Why Are My Bagels Gummy Inside?
Ah, the classic cottage cheese bagel fail. If your bagels turn out too dense or gummy:
- You may have underbaked—try extending the time by 5–10 minutes.
- Make sure your baking sheet was preheated—it helps create a dry, crispy bottom.
- Let them cool before slicing. Cutting too early traps steam inside.
- Add a bit more flour if your dough feels too sticky—humidity matters!
Want another bake to master? Try Loaded Recipes’ sourdough banana muffins for a tangy, fluffy side dish that’s just as kitchen-friendly.
Customizing Your Cottage Cheese Bagels
Sweet vs. Savory Variations
The beauty of this cottage cheese bagel recipe? It’s endlessly flexible. Whether you’re craving something sweet or a bit more savory, you can tweak the base to fit your taste.
For savory lovers, go bold:
- Stir in chopped scallions, garlic powder, or shredded cheddar.
- Top with sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or even crushed red pepper for heat.
- Try a filling—think herbed cream cheese or roasted veggies.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, don’t worry:
- Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough.
- Toss in a dash of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for cozy vibes.
- Top with raisins and brown sugar before baking for that cinnamon raisin bagel feel.
These creative spins make the bagel feel fresh every time you bake it—no more breakfast boredom!
High-Protein Boosters: Seeds, Egg Wash, Whey
Want to make your high-protein bagel even more powerful? Easy!
Start with the egg wash—it gives shine but also adds protein. Next, sprinkle hemp hearts or chia seeds on top before baking. Not only do they bring texture, but they also pack healthy fats and fiber.
You could even add a tablespoon of unflavored whey protein powder into the dough. Just be sure to adjust your flour slightly to balance the moisture.
This twist takes your cottage cheese bagel recipe from snack to meal prep MVP. You’ll feel full longer, and it still tastes amazing.
Looking to expand your high-protein recipe collection? For more delicious and easy options, check out the full recipe archive over at Loaded Recipes.
Serving Ideas & Storage Tips
Best Toppings for Cottage Cheese Bagels
Your freshly baked cottage cheese bagels are a canvas—so don’t hold back. For a savory breakfast, top them with:
- Cream cheese and smoked salmon
- Mashed avocado and chili flakes
- Hummus and cucumber slices
Want a sweet version? Toast your bagel and go for:
- Peanut butter and banana
- Almond butter with fresh berries
- A light spread of jam with Greek yogurt
These bagels also pair beautifully with soups, salads, or even eggs for a well-rounded meal. You’ll be amazed at how healthy homemade bagels can level up your whole day.
Meal Prep & Freezing Tips
Got leftovers? Good! This cottage cheese bagel recipe is freezer-friendly and meal-prep approved.
Here’s how to store them right:
- Fridge: Keep them in an airtight bag for up to 4 days. Toast before eating to revive that crisp edge.
- Freezer: Let them cool fully, then wrap individually in plastic wrap or foil. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
- Reheat: From frozen, toast directly—no need to thaw.
They even improve with freezing. When toasted, frozen bagels develop a firmer, bread-like center and extra crunch on the outside.
If you’re interested in other freezer-friendly recipes or meal prep favorites, browse through Loaded Recipes’ collection for tasty inspiration!
FAQs About Cottage Cheese Bagel Recipes
Can I make these without a blender?
Yes, absolutely! While blending the cottage cheese gives you a smoother dough, it’s not essential. If you’re using whipped cottage cheese, you can skip the blender entirely. Regular cottage cheese can still work—just expect a chunkier texture in the final bagel. Stir well and press the curds with a fork to break them down before mixing with the flour.
Are these bagels good for weight loss or muscle gain?
You bet! This cottage cheese bagel recipe is a game-changer for both goals. Each bagel packs around 10–11g of protein with just 150 calories, making it perfect for breakfast or a light snack. If you’re building muscle, you can double the portion or pair it with eggs or turkey slices. For weight loss, stick to one and pair it with fiber-rich toppings like avocado or veggies.
Plus, unlike traditional bagels, these won’t cause a mid-morning crash—thanks to slow-digesting casein protein in cottage cheese.
What does cottage cheese do in baking?
Great question! Cottage cheese works as both a binder and a moisture booster. It adds richness without needing oil or butter and helps create that soft, chewy texture we all love in a good bagel.
In this healthy homemade bagel recipe, it replaces the need for yeast, oil, and even milk—keeping things light, clean, and protein-packed.
Can I make these dairy-free or vegan?
You can try! There are now plant-based cottage cheese options made from almonds or soy. Though the results might vary slightly in texture and flavor, it’s worth experimenting. For a fully vegan version, swap the egg wash with plant milk or melted coconut oil.
Still unsure? For more dairy-free baking ideas, check out the growing recipe list at Loaded Recipes.
Final Thoughts and Reader Tips
Is This Cottage Cheese Bagel Recipe Worth It?
100% yes.
This cottage cheese bagel recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and not just because it’s trendy. It’s quick, flexible, and healthier than most store-bought bagels. Whether you’re chasing macros, meal-prepping for the week, or just trying to make smarter choices, these deliver big time.
They’re the kind of recipe you actually want to make again. No fuss, no yeast, no drama.
Tips from Readers and the TikTok Community
After trying it myself, I dove into comments and community tips—and wow, people are creative! Here are a few crowd-favorites:
- Use blended cottage cheese for fluffier texture
- Preheat your baking tray for crisp bottoms
- Freeze extras and toast for a crunchy, chewy bite
- Swap flours—many folks have tried oat flour or whole wheat successfully
It’s clear—this isn’t just a food trend. It’s a smart, tasty solution for busy, health-conscious eaters.