Keto cottage cheese bagels recipe is your answer to enjoying real, chewy bagels without the carb overload. These low-carb, high-protein bagels are everything you love about the classic—with a nutritious twist. They’re ready in under 30 minutes, require just a handful of ingredients, and taste amazing fresh out of the oven or toasted. In this guide, I’ll share my own story behind the recipe, helpful baking tips, and answers to common keto questions. Whether you’re just starting keto or a seasoned low-carb baker, these bagels will make your mornings easier—and more delicious.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe
The Joy of Rediscovering Bagels in a Keto Kitchen
I remember my first attempt at low-carb baking like it was yesterday—almond flour everywhere, a half-sunk muffin, and that nagging feeling that I’d never enjoy bread again. But then I stumbled upon the magic of cottage cheese, and everything changed.
This keto cottage cheese bagels recipe came together during a quiet Sunday morning in Asheville. I was thinking about the bagels my grandma and I used to make, rolling out soft, fluffy dough in her kitchen. Of course, those weren’t keto-friendly—but the comfort they brought? Unbeatable.
This version gives you all the cozy flavor of a real bagel without the carb crash. And the best part? You can enjoy it warm out of the oven or toasted later in the week, just like we used to do. With cottage cheese as the star, these bagels turn out incredibly moist and protein-rich while still holding their shape.
If you’re curious how these compare to other variations, check out this cottage cheese and bagel recipe to explore more ways to enjoy cottage cheese in your baking routine.
Nutrition You Can Feel Good About
Each bagel comes in at around 5 grams of net carbs and over 12 grams of protein, depending on the flour blend and toppings you choose. That makes them a perfect fit for a keto lifestyle, helping you stay full longer while supporting your daily macros.
For those looking for a little variety, this best cottage cheese bagels recipe gives you options to adjust flavor or texture—whether you like them fluffier, crispier, or more neutral for savory fillings.
This keto cottage cheese bagels recipe truly delivers that rare combo of comfort food and low-carb nutrition. Whether you’re baking for one or meal-prepping a batch, it’s a recipe you’ll return to with joy.
Ingredients & What You’ll Need for Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe
Core Ingredients Breakdown
When it comes to this keto cottage cheese bagels recipe, simplicity is everything. With just a few ingredients, you can create perfectly chewy, satisfying bagels in under 30 minutes. Here’s what you’ll need:
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese (blended smooth)
- 1 cup almond flour (fine-ground, blanched preferred)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins & Toppings:
- 1 tablespoon unflavored whey protein powder (for extra protein and structure)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, onion flakes, or Italian seasoning
- Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or shredded cheese for topping
If you prefer a gluten-free or alternative base, try using the blend from this cottage cheese bagels gluten free recipe, which includes flaxseed meal and psyllium husk for a fiber-rich version.
For a coconut flour variation, replace almond flour with 1/3 cup coconut flour and increase the number of eggs to two. Coconut flour is far more absorbent, so less is more.
This keto cottage cheese bagels recipe is also adaptable to self-rising flour alternatives—just check your baking powder’s freshness to ensure a nice rise.
Staples & Optional Add‑Ins
To boost your macros, stir in protein powder. It’s a great way to support your goals without altering the flavor or texture. Just one scoop can add up to 10 grams of extra protein per bagel.
Want to simplify it even more? The 3-ingredient cottage cheese bagel recipe skips seasonings and uses just cottage cheese, almond flour, and an egg—perfect for busy mornings.
If your cottage cheese is watery, strain it through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer first. A drier mix will make shaping the dough much easier and help it bake evenly.
It’s this kind of flexibility that makes a keto cottage cheese bagels recipe a reliable option—no matter what ingredients you have on hand.
Step-by-Step Method to Make These Bagels
Prep & Blending Process
Making this keto cottage cheese bagels recipe is quick and stress-free. Here’s how to get perfect results every time:
1. Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. Blend the cottage cheese:
Place 1 cup of full-fat cottage cheese in a food processor or blender. Blend until it’s smooth and creamy—this step gives your bagels the right texture.
3. Mix the dry ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup almond flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir well to distribute the baking powder evenly.
4. Combine wet and dry:
Pour the blended cottage cheese into the dry mixture. Crack in 1 large egg and stir until a dough forms. If you’re adding protein powder or spices, mix them in now.
5. Adjust if sticky:
If the dough feels sticky, chill it for 5–10 minutes or sprinkle in an extra tablespoon of almond flour. This step helps reduce mess and improves shaping.
For a quick variation, see how others approach it in this cottage cheese bagels recipe easy guide.
Shaping, Baking & Troubleshooting
6. Shape the bagels:
Divide the dough into 4–6 equal portions. Roll each into a short rope and join the ends to form a bagel shape. Lightly press any toppings onto the surface.
7. Egg wash for shine:
Whisk a second egg and brush the tops of the bagels. This gives them a beautiful golden finish after baking.
8. Bake:
Place the bagels on your lined tray and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until they’re firm to the touch and golden brown.
9. Cool before slicing:
Let the bagels cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps them set and prevents crumbling.
Sticky dough? No problem. Adding extra almond flour or chilling the dough are easy fixes. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
This keto cottage cheese bagels recipe makes soft, flavorful bagels that hold up to toasting and spreading. Now let’s talk about storage, flavor twists, and how to keep them fresh in the next section.
Print
Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4–6 bagels 1x
Description
Easy keto cottage cheese bagels recipe made with just 5 main ingredients. Soft, chewy, low-carb, and high in protein.
Ingredients
1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
1 cup almond flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
Optional: whey protein powder, garlic powder, everything bagel seasoning
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking tray.
2. Blend cottage cheese until smooth.
3. In a bowl, combine almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add cottage cheese and egg. Mix into dough.
5. Chill dough if sticky. Add more flour if needed.
6. Divide into 4–6 pieces. Shape into bagels.
7. Brush with egg wash and add toppings.
8. Bake 18–22 minutes until golden.
9. Cool 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Strain cottage cheese if watery.
Add protein powder for a nutrition boost.
Freeze extras and toast before eating.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Bread and Bagel
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Keto, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Variations, Storage & Serving Ideas
Flavor Variations & Dietary Swaps
One of the best things about this keto cottage cheese bagels recipe is how easy it is to customize. If you’re craving something savory, mix garlic powder, chives, or shredded parmesan directly into the dough. For a spicy twist, a pinch of chili flakes works great.
You can also swap the almond flour for a mix of flaxseed and psyllium husk. Just remember: psyllium holds moisture, so let the dough rest for 10 minutes before shaping. Want more protein? Add a tablespoon of whey or egg white protein powder—this will strengthen the structure without altering flavor.
This keto cottage cheese bagels recipe also lends itself well to creative toppings. Sprinkle sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or grated cheddar on top before baking. You can even brush them with melted butter after baking for a soft crust.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to enjoying your bagels all week. After baking, let them cool fully. Then store them in an airtight container:
- Room temperature: Up to 3 days
- Refrigerator: Up to 7 days
- Freezer: Up to 3 months (wrap individually)
To reheat, toast lightly or warm in a 325°F oven for 5–8 minutes. These tips help preserve the texture of your keto cottage cheese bagels recipe, keeping them fresh and delicious with every bite.
Whether you’re prepping breakfast ahead or planning snacks for the week, this keto cottage cheese bagels recipe delivers flexibility and flavor in every bite.
Nutrition Benefits & Keto Macros Breakdown
Why This Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels Recipe Supports Your Low-Carb Goals
If you’re following a ketogenic lifestyle, every bite matters. What makes this keto cottage cheese bagels recipe such a standout is its ability to satisfy your cravings while keeping your macros in check. With each bagel offering an impressive amount of protein and minimal net carbs, it’s a smart addition to any keto-friendly meal plan.
The star ingredient, cottage cheese, brings in not just texture and flavor but also a rich nutrient profile. Full-fat cottage cheese contains calcium, B vitamins, and about 13 grams of protein per 1/2 cup. That protein supports muscle recovery, keeps you fuller longer, and helps stabilize blood sugar throughout the day.
Combined with almond flour, which is packed with healthy fats, fiber, and vitamin E, this recipe is both filling and balanced. You’re not just cutting carbs—you’re nourishing your body with ingredients that actually help you thrive on keto.
Here’s why this keto cottage cheese bagels recipe fits right into your goals:
- Low carb: Just 5–7g net carbs per bagel
- High protein: 12–15g protein depending on add-ins
- Gluten-free: No wheat flour or starches
- Naturally satisfying: The protein/fat combo supports satiety
This balance of macros helps reduce cravings, supports ketosis, and provides a steady source of energy—especially helpful for anyone transitioning to a lower-carb lifestyle.
Complete Macro Breakdown (Per Bagel)
Here’s a typical breakdown using the basic recipe without add-ins:
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160–180 |
| Protein | 12–15g |
| Net Carbs | 5–7g |
| Fat | 11–13g |
| Fiber | 2–3g |
Your exact values may vary depending on brand and topping choices. If you include protein powder or cheese on top, calories and protein may increase slightly, which is great for post-workout meals.
Smart Swaps for Special Diets
This keto cottage cheese bagels recipe is naturally gluten-free and grain-free, but you can make it dairy-free by using vegan cream cheese or almond milk-based cottage cheese. Just be sure to adjust the flour quantity as plant-based versions often have more liquid.
Watching sodium? Use no-salt-added cottage cheese or reduce added salt in the dough. Want to up the fiber? Swap in a tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds.
No matter how you tweak it, the keto cottage cheese bagels recipe gives you a nutrient-dense base to build your breakfasts, snacks, or sandwiches—without breaking your carb budget.
Conclusion
Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned low-carb home baker, this keto cottage cheese bagels recipe is a keeper. It’s quick, flexible, protein-rich, and deeply satisfying—without the carb load of traditional bagels. You can prep them in batches, dress them up with toppings, and enjoy them fresh or frozen throughout the week.
Baking should feel like a win, not a chore—and these bagels deliver every time. Embrace the simple ingredients, tweak the flavors to your taste, and enjoy every bite knowing you’re supporting your health goals without sacrificing comfort food.
Want more sweet inspiration? Follow me on Facebook and Pinterest where I share cozy, easy-to-make baking recipes just like this one. Let’s bake something beautiful together!
Is cottage cheese OK for ketosis?
Yes, full-fat cottage cheese can fit well into a keto diet. It contains about 6–7 grams of carbs per 1/2 cup, along with 13–14 grams of protein and healthy fats. Just be sure to track portions to stay within your daily carb limit.
How many carbs in a cottage cheese bagel?
Most homemade versions of this keto cottage cheese bagels recipe contain around 5–7 grams of net carbs per bagel. This depends on the flour used (almond vs coconut), and whether you include any toppings like seeds or cheese.
Can I add extra protein to these bagels?
Definitely. You can add 1–2 tablespoons of whey protein isolate or egg white protein to the dough. It boosts the protein content by 8–12 grams per bagel and improves structure, especially if your cottage cheese is very soft.
How do I prevent the dough from being too sticky?
Sticky dough is usually due to extra moisture in the cottage cheese. Strain it first, and chill the dough if needed. You can also sprinkle in an extra tablespoon of almond flour to firm it up before shaping.