These 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Cottage Cheese Bagels are simple and fun to make! With just cottage cheese, flour, and baking powder, you’ll have tasty bagels ready in no time.
I love how fluffy they turn out, and the air fryer makes them perfectly golden! You can even top them with your favorite spreads or herbs for a tasty twist.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese gives these bagels a rich flavor and good texture. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use low-fat or even non-fat cottage cheese. Just keep in mind that the texture might change slightly.
Self-Rising Flour: This is a convenient choice as it already contains baking powder and salt. If you don’t have it, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt to create your own. This works well in a pinch!
Egg: The egg helps bind the dough and adds moisture. If you’re vegan or allergic, you can try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). It won’t be the same, but it should still hold things together.
Toppings: Everything bagel seasoning is a classic here, but you can switch it up! Try some grated cheese, fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet twist.
How Can You Knead the Dough Just Right?
Kneading the dough helps develop gluten, which gives bagels their chewy texture. But you don’t want to overdo it! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Lightly flour your surface to prevent sticking.
- Place the dough on the surface and gently flatten it with your hands.
- Fold the dough in half, then press down and fold again. Repeat this about 4-5 times until it feels smooth but still slightly sticky.
- Don’t worry if it’s not perfect! A little stickiness means it’ll be softer once baked.
Taking care while kneading is key, so just be gentle and keep an eye on the texture. Happy bagel making!
3 Ingredient Air Fryer Cottage Cheese Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Bagel Mixture:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably full-fat)
- 1 cup self-rising flour (or substitute with all-purpose flour + baking powder)
- 1 large egg
Optional Toppings:
- Everything bagel seasoning (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, crushed red pepper flakes)
- Sea salt
- Fresh herbs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes in total: around 10 minutes for preparation and about 12-15 minutes for cooking in the air fryer. So, in no time, you’ll have delicious bagels to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Dough:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and combine the cottage cheese, self-rising flour, and egg. Use either your hands or a spoon to mix everything together. You want to mix until you have a sticky dough. It should come together nicely but still feel a bit tacky.
2. Kneading the Dough:
Next, lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking. Transfer the dough onto this floured space. Knead the dough gently just a few times—enough to make it hold together well, but remember, it should still be slightly sticky. This is important for a soft bagel texture!
3. Shaping the Bagels:
Now, divide the dough into 4 to 6 equal portions, depending on how big you want your bagels. Roll each piece into a ball, and then shape them into bagels by poking a hole in the center with your finger. Gently stretch that hole to about 1.5 to 2 inches wide to create the classic bagel shape.
4. Preparing the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes. While it’s heating, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil or use parchment paper to line it for easy cleanup.
5. Cooking the Bagels:
Carefully place the shaped bagels into the air fryer basket; make sure they’re not touching. Now it’s time to add your favorite toppings! Sprinkle them generously on each bagel to add extra flavor. Finally, air fry the bagels at 350°F (175°C) for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Don’t forget to check halfway through cooking; a quick rotation may be necessary for even browning!
6. Cooling and Serving:
Once done, take the bagels out of the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. They are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Serve them plain, or with cream cheese, or your favorite spread for a delightful snack or breakfast.
Enjoy your quick, easy, and protein-packed cottage cheese bagels made effortlessly in the air fryer!
Can I Use Low-Fat or Non-Fat Cottage Cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese! Just be aware that this may slightly alter the texture and richness of the bagels compared to using full-fat cottage cheese.
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 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt. This mixture will work just as well in the recipe!
Can I Make These Bagels Without an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the bagels in a conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to adjust the cooking time as needed!
How to Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them tightly! To enjoy later, thaw and toast them for a warm treat.
