These 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Cottage Cheese Bagels are super easy to whip up! With just cottage cheese, flour, and baking powder, you can have fresh bagels in no time!
I love how simple these are, not to mention tasty! They’re perfect for breakfast or a snack, and you can top them with cream cheese or your favorite spreads. Yum! 🥯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: You can use either full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese. I love using full-fat for a creamier texture, but low-fat is just as good. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cream cheese alternative, though it might change the texture slightly.
Self-Rising Flour: This is a key ingredient because it already contains baking powder and salt. If you don’t have it, mixing 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1.5 tsp baking powder and 0.5 tsp salt works perfectly as a substitute.
Egg: The egg helps bind the ingredients and gives the bagels a nice rise. If you prefer a vegan option, you can use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) or applesauce for a similar effect, though the texture may vary.
Everything Bagel Seasoning: This adds a tasty crunch! If you don’t have it, you can create your own mix with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion flakes, and salt. Experimenting with toppings like cheese or herbs can add unique flavors too!
How Do I Shape My Dough into Perfect Bagels?
Shaping bagels takes just a bit of practice, but it’s really fun! Once your dough is mixed, dust your hands with flour to prevent sticking. Divide the sticky dough into equal pieces – around 4-5 works well. Then, roll each piece into a ball.
- Poke a hole in the center of each ball using your finger. Make sure to stretch the hole gently, as it will shrink during cooking.
- Ensure the bagels are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Place them on a parchment-lined tray to prepare for the air fryer.
With these tips, your bagels will turn out lovely and fluffy! Enjoy the process, and don’t worry if they’re not perfect; they’ll still taste amazing.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Cottage Cheese Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full fat or low fat)
- 1 cup self-rising flour (or all-purpose flour with 1.5 tsp baking powder and 0.5 tsp salt)
- 1 large egg
For Topping:
- Everything bagel seasoning or a mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion flakes, and salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 5 minutes of prep time and 10-12 minutes of cooking time in the air fryer. So, in about 15-20 minutes, you can have delicious homemade bagels ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
First things first, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bagels will cook evenly and turn out perfectly fluffy.
2. Make the Dough:
In a food processor, add the cottage cheese, self-rising flour, and egg. Blend until a dough forms. If you don’t have a food processor, you can mix it in a bowl with a spoon or spatula—just know that it will be a bit sticky!
3. Shape the Bagels:
Lightly flour your hands to help prevent sticking. Divide the dough into 4-5 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then poke a hole in the center with your finger to create the bagel shape. Make sure to stretch the hole a little, as it might shrink while cooking.
4. Prepare for Cooking:
Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined tray for easy transfer. Lightly brush or spray the tops of each bagel with water or beaten egg to help the seasoning stick nicely.
5. Season the Bagels:
Generously sprinkle everything bagel seasoning (or your homemade mix) on top of each bagel. The more, the merrier!
6. Air Fry the Bagels:
Carefully place the bagels in the air fryer basket, making sure they have space and don’t touch each other. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them for the best results!
7. Let Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the bagels from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly. They’re absolutely delicious on their own or with extra cream cheese, butter, or your favorite spread!
Enjoy your quick and easy 3 ingredient air fryer cottage cheese bagels!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese Instead?
Absolutely! Low-fat cottage cheese works just as well as full-fat. The texture might be slightly different, but you’ll still get delicious bagels. Feel free to use whichever you prefer!
What if I Don’t Have Self-Rising Flour?
No problem! You can easily make your own by mixing 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and 0.5 teaspoons of salt. This will give you the same leavening effect!
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, shape and air fry as directed!
How Should I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just pop them in the toaster to reheat!
