These fluffy bagels made with cottage cheese and almond flour are a yummy twist on the classic! They’re low-carb, tasty, and perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Every time I make these, I feel like a bagel boss in my own kitchen. Plus, the best part is that they are super easy to whip up—no waiting for dough to rise!
They’re so light and fluffy, I love pairing them with cream cheese or avocado. Enjoying one with a hot cup of coffee is my little morning treat! ☕️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Use full-fat cottage cheese for better texture and richness. If lactose is a concern, try using a dairy-free alternative like almond or coconut yogurt for a similar creamy effect.
Almond Flour: Almond flour gives these bagels their fluffy texture. If you need a nut-free option, sunflower seed flour works well. Just remember that if you use a different flour, it may change the texture.
Eggs: Eggs provide structure and moisture. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can replace each egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water.
Baking Powder: This helps the bagels rise. Make sure to use a fresh batch; old baking powder can affect the fluffiness. You could also substitute it with baking soda, but ensure to include an acidic ingredient (like vinegar) to activate it.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Bagel Shape?
Shaping the bagels can be tricky but here are some tips. After dividing your dough, flour your hands to prevent sticking. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center with your finger.
- Expand the hole gently while shaping, ensuring it remains a consistent size as it bakes.
- Make the hole a bit larger than you think— they tend to close up a little while baking.
Practice makes perfect! The more you shape them, the easier it becomes. Enjoy the process, and soon you’ll be creating beautifully shaped bagels!
Fluffy Cottage Cheese Almond Flour Bagel
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Bagel Base:
- 1 cup (240g) cottage cheese (preferably full fat)
- 1 ½ cups (150g) almond flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for a mild flavor)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (helps with fluffiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Topping:
- Everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds
- 1 egg white (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, expect to spend around 40 minutes from start to finish. That’s pretty quick for a homemade bagel!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bagels bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy. While your oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Bagel Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract (if using). Blend this mixture until it’s smooth, using a food processor or a high-speed blender. You want a dough-like consistency that will hold together well.
3. Mix in the Dry Ingredients:
Add the almond flour, baking powder, salt, and apple cider vinegar to your blended mixture. Gently stir everything together until a sticky dough forms. Don’t overmix; just ensure everything is combined.
4. Shape the Bagels:
Lightly flour your hands with almond flour to prevent sticking. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball, then create a hole in the center using your finger or the handle of a wooden spoon. This gives you that classic bagel shape. Place each shaped bagel on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Add Egg Wash and Toppings:
In a small bowl, whisk the egg white until it’s slightly frothy. Brush the tops of each bagel with the egg white for a beautiful golden color when they bake. Then, sprinkle generously with everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds for added flavor.
6. Bake Away:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and let them bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown. You’ll notice them puffing up nicely while they bake—this is a good sign that they’re fluffy!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool for about 10 minutes. This helps the texture settle. Slice your bagels and enjoy them warm or toasted, topped with cream cheese, avocado, or anything else you love!
Enjoy your delicious, fluffy, low-carb almond flour and cottage cheese bagels! Happy baking!
Can I Use a Different Type of Flour?
Yes, while almond flour is great for a low-carb option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose blend if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary. If using a different flour, you might need to adjust the liquid in the recipe.
Are These Bagels Freezer-Friendly?
Absolutely! After they cool completely, store the bagels in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and toast before serving.
Can I Add Additional Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative! You can mix in herbs, cheese, or even chopped vegetables into the dough for added flavor. Just ensure not to overdo it, as this might affect the dough’s consistency.
How Do I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the fridge or freezer. Just remember to toast them before eating for the best texture!
