These Savory Baked Cottage Cheese Bagels are tender on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and bursting with flavor from cheese, herbs, and spices. Made with wholesome ingredients like cottage cheese, rice flour, and eggs, they’re naturally gluten-free, protein-packed, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or healthy snacking. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb bread alternative or just want to try something new and delicious, these cheesy bagels will surprise you with their ease and incredible taste.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 9 mini bagels
Cuisine: Healthy Homemade / European-Inspired
Ingredients
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200 g (about 1 cup) cottage cheese
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1 large egg
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60 g (about ½ cup) hard cheese (cheddar, gouda, or similar), grated
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A handful of chopped green onions, dill, parsley, or other herbs (to taste)
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Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite spices (to taste)
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30 g (about ¼ cup) rice flour (adjust depending on moisture)
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Sesame seeds or other toppings (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
Prepare the mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese and egg. Use a fork or spatula to mix until smooth and evenly blended.
Add in the grated hard cheese and mix well. The cheese adds richness and savory flavor while helping bind the dough.
Stir in your chosen herbs (like dill or green onions) and seasonings. This is where you can get creative—try garlic powder, Italian herbs, smoked paprika, or chili flakes depending on your flavor profile.
Add the flour
Gradually mix in the rice flour. Depending on the moisture content of your cottage cheese, you might need a bit more or less. The dough should be slightly moist but firm enough to hold its shape.
If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little extra rice flour. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of yogurt or a few drops of water.
Shape the bagels
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Divide the dough into 9 equal portions. Roll each piece into a small ball, then shape into a bagel by gently pressing a hole in the center. You can also form them into buns or patties if preferred.
Place each shaped bagel onto the prepared baking sheet. If using, sprinkle sesame seeds or other seeds (like flax or poppy) over the tops for texture and extra nutrition.
Bake the bagels
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the edges are slightly crisp.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve and enjoy
These bagels are best enjoyed warm, but they’re also great at room temperature. Serve with cream cheese, hummus, avocado, or alongside soups and salads.
Nutritional Information (per bagel – based on 9 servings)
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Calories: 115
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Protein: 7g
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Carbohydrates: 6g
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Fat: 7g
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Saturated Fat: 3g
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Fiber: 0.5g
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Sugar: 0.8g
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Sodium: 180mg
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Calcium: 12% DV
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Iron: 3% DV
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This recipe is inspired by a fusion of Eastern European cottage cheese pastries and modern gluten-free baking. Cottage cheese has long been used in Russian, Polish, and Ukrainian baked goods for its creamy texture and high protein content. Combined with rice flour—a gluten-free favorite—the result is a unique, tender dough that bakes beautifully without the need for yeast or long proofing times.
In recent years, gluten-free and protein-rich baking has gained traction due to increased dietary awareness. These baked bagels are a modern take on those traditions—simple, healthy, and adaptable to nearly any diet.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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High in protein – from eggs, cheese, and cottage cheese
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Naturally gluten-free – made with rice flour
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Customizable – endless spice and herb combinations
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Quick to make – no kneading, no rising time
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Soft, cheesy texture – like a cross between a bagel and a cheese biscuit
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Kid-friendly – delicious for breakfast or lunchboxes
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Perfect for meal prep – make ahead and store easily
Health Benefits
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Cottage cheese is high in casein protein, which supports muscle repair and satiety
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Rice flour is gentle on the digestive system and gluten-free
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Eggs provide protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins
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Cheese and herbs offer flavor without added sugar or preservatives
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Low glycemic impact – ideal for those watching blood sugar
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Balanced macronutrients – protein, fat, and carbs for sustained energy
These bagels can be part of a high-protein breakfast or a low-carb snack, depending on your nutritional goals.
Serving Suggestions
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With avocado and poached egg – for a protein-packed breakfast
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Spread with herbed cream cheese or labneh
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Served with soups – such as tomato, mushroom, or lentil soup
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As a savory sandwich – filled with turkey, cheese, or grilled vegetables
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Alongside a fresh salad – for a light, balanced meal
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With nut butter or honey – for a sweet-savory twist
Cooking Tips
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Use dry cottage cheese for firmer dough. If your cottage cheese is very wet, drain excess liquid with a sieve or cheesecloth
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Grate cheese finely so it mixes evenly into the dough
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Wet your hands when shaping the bagels if the dough is slightly sticky
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Don’t overbake – remove once golden brown to maintain a soft center
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Add a pinch of baking powder for a fluffier texture if desired
Variations to Try
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Garlic herb – add fresh garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the dough
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Spicy cheddar – use sharp cheddar and chili flakes
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Sweet version – skip savory herbs and add cinnamon, honey, and raisins
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Keto version – replace rice flour with almond flour (adjust quantity)
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Mini bagels or bites – great for kids or as party snacks
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Dairy-free version – use dairy-free cheese and plant-based yogurt
Conclusion
These Savory Baked Cottage Cheese Bagels with Herbs and Rice Flour offer a nutritious, versatile, and downright delicious alternative to traditional breads. With their cheesy flavor, soft texture, and minimal ingredient list, they’re ideal for busy mornings, healthy snacking, or weekend brunches. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or pack them for a mid-day energy boost, these gluten-free bagels prove that simple can still be spectacular.
FAQ
1. Can I use wheat flour instead of rice flour?
Yes, you can. All-purpose or whole wheat flour works, but the texture will be slightly firmer.
2. Can I freeze these bagels?
Absolutely. Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a zip bag. Reheat in the oven or toaster when ready to eat.
3. How do I make them dairy-free?
Use plant-based cheese alternatives and dairy-free cottage cheese or firm tofu blended with lemon juice and nutritional yeast.
4. Can I add seeds inside the dough?
Yes! Add flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, or chia seeds for crunch and added nutrition.
5. What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar, gouda, mozzarella, or a mix. Choose one that melts well and complements your herbs.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
7. Why did my dough turn out too sticky?
Moisture content in cottage cheese varies. Just add more rice flour a tablespoon at a time until it firms up.
8. Can I add baking powder?
Yes. Adding ½ tsp of baking powder will give a slightly fluffier texture.
9. Can I use this dough to make buns or rolls?
Definitely. Shape as desired and bake until golden brown.
10. What dipping sauces go well with this?
Try garlic yogurt sauce, avocado cream, hummus, or tzatziki.