These gluten-free cottage cheese bagels are a delicious twist on the classic! Made with creamy cottage cheese and simple ingredients, they’re soft, flavorful, and perfect for any meal.
Plus, they’re super easy to make! Just mix, shape, and bake. I love enjoying them with a bit of cream cheese or avocado on top. Yummy and so satisfying! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blend: This is crucial for the base of your bagels. Make sure it’s a blend that includes xanthan gum for better texture. If you don’t have a blend, you could use almond flour or oat flour, but results may vary in texture.
Cottage Cheese: You can use either full-fat or low-fat, depending on your preference. I love the creaminess of full-fat, but low-fat works just as well. If you’re lactose intolerant, try using dairy-free cottage cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute!
Eggs: These help bind the ingredients together. If you’re looking for a vegan option, consider 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) to replace each egg.
Dried Herbs: Optional, but they add great flavor. If thyme or oregano aren’t your style, feel free to experiment with basil or Italian seasoning. Fresh herbs could also work if you have them on hand!
How Do You Knead Dough Without Making a Mess?
Kneading gluten-free dough can be tricky since it tends to be stickier than regular dough. Start by dusting your hands and work surface with gluten-free flour to avoid sticking. The goal is to gently combine the ingredients without overworking them, which helps keep the texture light.
- Only knead the dough a few times until it forms a cohesive ball.
- Expect it to be sticky, so don’t hesitate to flour your hands and the surface as needed.
- Keeping the dough moist is key, so avoid adding too much flour, or you’ll end up with tough bagels.
Remember, the more gentle you are, the better your bagels will turn out! Happy baking!
How to Make Gluten-Free Cottage Cheese Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (plus extra for kneading)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full fat or low fat)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp dried herbs (such as thyme or oregano, optional)
- Sesame seeds for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, making it a quick and delicious option! So, in total, set aside around 40 minutes to enjoy fresh bagels right from your oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your bagels won’t stick when baking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, baking powder, salt, and dried herbs (if you’re using them). Mixing the dry ingredients first helps everything to blend evenly when you add the wet ingredients.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese and eggs until the mixture is smooth. This adds moisture and richness to your bagels.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir them together until a sticky dough forms. Don’t worry if it’s a little messy—that’s part of the charm!
5. Knead the Dough:
Dust your hands and work surface lightly with some gluten-free flour. Gently knead the dough a few times until it comes together. Be careful not to over-knead—just enough to form a ball is perfect!
6. Shape the Bagels:
Divide the dough into 4 or 5 equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your finger. Gently stretch the dough around your finger to form a bagel shape.
7. Prepare for Baking:
Place the bagels on the lined baking sheet. If you’d like, brush the tops with a little water and sprinkle with sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bagels turn a lovely golden brown on top. The smell will be amazing!
9. Cool Down:
Once they are done baking, remove the bagels from the oven. Let them cool on a wire rack before slicing. This helps them set and makes slicing easier.
10. Enjoy Your Bagels:
Serve them plain, toasted, or add your favorite toppings like butter, cream cheese, or jam. Enjoy your soft, gluten-free cottage cheese bagels for breakfast or as a snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Flour?
Yes, you can experiment with other gluten-free flours, but results may vary. Almond flour or oat flour can be used, but it might change the texture and flavor. Make sure to use a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for the best results!
What Can I Substitute for Cottage Cheese?
If you prefer a different option, you can use dairy-free cottage cheese or Greek yogurt. Both alternatives will keep your bagels moist while providing a similar texture!
Can I Make These Bagels Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and shape the bagels, then cover them and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just allow extra time for them to come to room temperature before baking.
How to Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to slice them before freezing for easier toasting later on!
