Cottage Cheese Macrina Bagels

Name: Cottage Cheese Macrina Bagels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 1 tbsp sugar; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 egg (for egg wash); Seed toppings (poppy seeds, sesame seeds, etc.)

Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes

I never realized how delightful a bagel could be until I experimented with cottage cheese in the dough. Combining creamy cottage cheese with the traditional bagel ingredients makes these treats incredibly tender and flavorful. The texture is light yet hearty, and the slight tang from the cheese adds an unexpected but delightful dimension. These bagels quickly became a breakfast staple in our household, and I love how easy they are to make. Trust me; once you try these, regular bagels will seem boring!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-25T15:45:27.699Z

One day, I found myself with leftover cottage cheese and decided to get creative in the kitchen. After several tests, I landed on a delightful version of bagels that combined the creamy goodness of cottage cheese with the classic dough. The result was a beautiful, soft bagel that still had that chewy texture we all love.

To make these bagels even better, I recommend boiling them before baking. Boiling helps create that signature outer crust that bagel lovers crave. As they bake, the cottage cheese gives a rich flavor while keeping the bagels tender inside. Give this recipe a try, and you might just join the cottage cheese bagel fan club!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Unexpectedly rich flavor from cottage cheese
Perfect balance of chewy and soft textures
Versatile for any toppings or spreads

Understanding the Role of Cottage Cheese

Using cottage cheese in the dough not only enriches the flavor profile but also significantly impacts the texture of these bagels. The moisture from the cheese contributes to a tender crumb, which is a delightful contrast to the traditionally denser bagel. Moreover, cottage cheese brings a subtle tang that pairs beautifully with sweet or savory toppings alike, enhancing your bagel experience.

For those considering dietary swaps, low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese can be used without a noticeable change in taste, though it might make the bagels slightly less tender. If you're aiming for a dairy-free option, try using silken tofu blended until smooth as a substitute. It offers a similar creaminess that balances well with the other ingredients.

Perfecting Your Bagel Technique

Kneading the dough is a crucial step that helps develop gluten, leading to that perfect chewiness every bagel lover craves. However, be careful not to over-knead; this can lead to a tough bagel. Aim for a light touch and knead just until the dough is smooth and holds together, about 2-3 minutes. Watch for a cohesive dough that isn't too sticky to the touch.

When shaping the bagels, ensure that the hole in the center is generous—about 1 to 2 inches. As they boil, the bagels will puff up, causing the hole to shrink. If it closes up completely, your bagels will lack that iconic shape and texture. Use your fingers to stretch the hole gently before boiling.

Baking and Storing Your Bagels

For the best results, let your bagels rest for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet before placing them in the oven. This rest period allows them to set slightly, promoting an even rise. When baking, keep an eye on them after the 15-minute mark; you want a deep golden brown color, which indicates that they are properly cooked and will provide a satisfying crunch on the outside.

If you’re making a batch ahead of time, bagels freeze exceptionally well. After cooling, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven for 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) from frozen for a fresh-baked taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your cottage cheese Macrina bagels:

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cottage cheese
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp baking soda
3 tbsp olive oil
1 egg (for egg wash)
Seed toppings (poppy seeds, sesame seeds, etc.)

Once you have prepared all the ingredients, you can start making your bagels!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create delicious cottage cheese Macrina bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and baking soda. Mix well. Then add the cottage cheese and olive oil. Stir until a dough starts to form.

Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead lightly until it holds together. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center to create a bagel shape. Make sure the hole is large enough as it will shrink when cooking.

Boil the Bagels

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Carefully add the bagels, boiling them for 1-2 minutes on each side. This helps achieve that classic bagel texture.

Apply Egg Wash and Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place boiled bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each bagel with beaten egg for shine, and sprinkle with your choice of seeds.

Bake Until Golden

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the bagels are golden brown. Let them cool slightly before enjoying!

Enjoy your homemade cottage cheese Macrina bagels fresh!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding herbs or spices to the dough. You can also experiment with different toppings like everything seasoning or garlic powder before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Experimenting with toppings can elevate your cottage cheese bagels from breakfast to any meal of the day. Try a classic lox and cream cheese combination for a brunch favorite or layer on avocado and red pepper flakes for a modern twist. The beauty of these bagels lies in their versatility—they can be enjoyed sweet, savory, or even with a spread like hummus or almond butter.

Consider serving them with a homemade spread—whipped cream cheese mixed with herbs, or even a bit of honey and cinnamon for a sweet touch. Adding fresh vegetables, like cucumbers or tomatoes, can bring a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy flavor of the bagel.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels turn out denser than expected, it may be due to over-kneading or not incorporating enough air into the dough during mixing. Remember, a light touch is crucial! Also, ensure that your baking powder is fresh, as stale leavening agents can prevent proper rising, affecting texture.

On the flip side, if your bagels are too soft, it may be due to an insufficient boiling time. The boiling step is vital for achieving that chewy, classic bagel texture. Adjust the boiling time slightly, boiling each batch a little longer if necessary, to perfect that exterior bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Yes, these bagels freeze well. Just ensure they are fully cooled before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag.

→ What can I use instead of cottage cheese?

You can use ricotta cheese as a substitute for cottage cheese, but it might alter the texture slightly.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I add toppings before baking?

Absolutely! Feel free to sprinkle on toppings before applying the egg wash and baking them for extra flavor.