These cottage cheese bagels are a delightful twist on the traditional bagel, made with a moist and tender cottage cheese mixture that is perfectly complemented by the richness of hard cheese and the fresh flavors of herbs. The addition of rice flour helps to bind the dough, making these bagels gluten-free (if you use gluten-free flour), while keeping them soft and light. Sprinkled with sesame seeds or your favorite seeds for a crunchy topping, these bagels are great for breakfast, a snack, or as a savory side dish. With the option to customize the herbs and spices, you can easily make them to suit your taste. These bagels are sure to be a hit for anyone who loves fresh, cheesy baked goods.
Preparation Time
- Total preparation and cooking time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 200g cottage cheese (adjust flour based on the moisture content of the cottage cheese)
- 1 egg
- 60g hard cheese (any type, grated)
- Your favorite spices, green onions, dill, or other herbs (to taste)
- 30g rice flour (adjust as needed)
- Sesame or other seeds for sprinkling
Instructions
-
Prepare the Mixture:
- In a bowl, combine 200g cottage cheese with 1 egg.
- Grate and add 60g of your preferred hard cheese (cheddar, gouda, or parmesan work great).
- Add your favorite spices and herbs, such as chopped green onions, dill, or a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor.
-
Add Flour:
- Gradually add 30g of rice flour to the mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- If the cottage cheese is too wet, you may need to add more rice flour, but be careful not to add too much. The mixture should remain slightly moist and curd-like, not too dry.
-
Form the Bagels:
- Divide the mixture into 9 equal portions.
- Carefully shape each portion into a bagel or your desired shape (you can also make rolls if preferred). Since the mixture will be sticky and tender, it’s helpful to use wet hands or a spoon to form the shapes.
- Transfer the shaped portions onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
-
Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Sprinkle sesame seeds or any seeds of your choice over the top of each bagel for added crunch and flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bagels are golden brown and firm to the touch.
-
Serve:
- Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Serve warm, either on their own or with a spread of your choice (butter, cream cheese, or even smoked salmon for a savory treat).
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy these bagels for breakfast with butter or your favorite spread.
- Pair with a fresh salad or soup for a light and savory lunch.
- Serve with a dollop of cream cheese and smoked salmon for a delicious brunch option.
- For a snack, they’re perfect alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee.
Cooking Tips
- The key to achieving the perfect texture for these bagels is to ensure the mixture stays moist but not too wet. If the cottage cheese is very wet, add a bit more rice flour until it holds together but remains soft.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or basil, depending on your preference.
- If you don’t have rice flour, you can substitute with a different gluten-free flour or even regular all-purpose flour, but it may affect the texture slightly.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cottage Cheese: A great source of protein and calcium, it supports muscle growth and bone health.
- Hard Cheese: Adds a dose of protein and calcium while enhancing the flavor with its rich, savory taste.
- Rice Flour: A gluten-free alternative to traditional flour, it adds a light texture to the bagels without compromising taste.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like dill and green onions provide vitamins and antioxidants, boosting both flavor and nutrition.
Dietary Information
- This recipe is gluten-free (if using gluten-free flour).
- It’s high in protein due to the cottage cheese and hard cheese, making it a filling snack or meal.
- Vegetarian-friendly (contains dairy and eggs).
Storage
- These bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, place them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their freshness, or slice and toast them for a crispy finish.
Conclusion
These cottage cheese bagels with hard cheese and herbs are a delicious, easy-to-make baked treat. With their soft, moist interior, crispy exterior, and savory flavors, they make for a perfect breakfast or snack. Customize the herbs and spices to suit your tastes, and enjoy these warm, homemade bagels with your favorite spread. Whether you’re gluten-free or simply looking for a tasty twist on traditional bagels, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use different types of flour in this recipe? Yes! You can use all-purpose flour if you’re not gluten-free, or experiment with other gluten-free flours like almond flour or oat flour for a different texture.
-
Can I make these bagels ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time, shape the bagels, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This can save time if you’re preparing for a brunch or meal.
-
How can I make these bagels sweeter? If you prefer a sweet version, you can add a tablespoon of honey or sugar to the mixture, and sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor.
-
Can I freeze these bagels? Yes, you can freeze these bagels after baking. Simply let them cool, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat them in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.
-
Can I add toppings or fillings inside the bagels? Yes, feel free to add fillings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even ham and cheese to the center of each bagel before baking for a savory twist