The Best Cottage Cheese Bagel Recipe You’ll Ever Taste – And It’s So Simple To Make!

Indulge in the delectable flavors of freshly baked cottage cheese bagels with this easy-to-follow recipe! Cottage cheese bagels offer a unique twist on the classic, their soft and chewy texture complemented by the tangy, creamy flavor of cottage cheese. This recipe will guide you through each step, from preparing the dough to achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water (110-115°F)
• 1 tablespoon (15g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5g) fine sea salt
• 1 teaspoon (3g) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (120g) cottage cheese

For the Water Bath:

• 8 cups (2L) water
• 2 tablespoons (30g) baking soda

Instructions

Preparing the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the warm water, sugar, and salt. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let stand for 5 minutes, or until foamy.
2. Add the cottage cheese and stir until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Shaping the Bagels:

1. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
2. Roll out each piece into a 12-inch (30cm) rope.
3. Connect the ends of the rope to form a circle.
4. Place the bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Water Bath:

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Bring the water to a boil in a large pot.
3. Add the baking soda and stir until dissolved.
4. Carefully drop the bagels into the boiling water and boil for 1 minute per side.

Baking the Bagels:

1. Remove the bagels from the water and drain on paper towels.
2. Return the bagels to the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Let the bagels cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Tips for a Perfect Bagel

• For a chewier bagel, knead the dough for longer.
• To achieve a darker crust, brush the bagels with water before baking.
• If you don’t have a baking soda solution, you can boil the bagels in plain water for 30 seconds per side.
• For a variety of flavors, add your favorite toppings before baking, such as sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or garlic.

Variations

• Whole Wheat Cottage Cheese Bagels: Substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour.
• Sourdough Cottage Cheese Bagels: Use a sourdough starter instead of active dry yeast.
• Cinnamon Raisin Cottage Cheese Bagels: Add cinnamon and raisins to the dough before kneading.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy your cottage cheese bagels with your favorite cream cheese, butter, or jam.
• Slice them and use them as sandwich bread.
• Toast them and serve with smoked salmon and capers.

Health Benefits of Cottage Cheese Bagels

Cottage cheese is rich in protein and calcium, making these bagels a nutritious snack or meal. They are also a good source of fiber and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Conclusion: A Delightful Culinary Adventure

Embark on a culinary adventure with this delectable cottage cheese bagel recipe. With its soft, chewy texture and tangy flavor, these bagels are sure to become a favorite. Experiment with different variations and toppings to create your own personalized bagel delights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make cottage cheese bagels without a stand mixer?
A: Yes, you can knead the dough by hand for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Q: How long can I store cottage cheese bagels?
A: Store the bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I use milk instead of water in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use milk, but it may alter the texture of the bagels slightly.