Savory Herb Cottage Bagels

Name: Savory Herb Cottage Bagels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons dried mixed herbs (such as dill, thyme, and oregano); 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Dishes

I love making Savory Herb Cottage Bagels on lazy weekend mornings. This recipe combines rich herbal flavors with the light, fluffy goodness of cottage cheese, creating a unique breakfast treat. The aroma wafting through the kitchen as they bake is irresistible! These bagels have a delightful chewiness, and I love experimenting with different herbs to customize the taste. Each bite is a fluffy cloud of savory bliss, perfect for slathering with cream cheese or enjoying as they are.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-25T16:21:27.921Z

When I first experimented with making bagels, I wanted something that stepped away from the traditional flavor profiles. Adding cottage cheese not only adds moisture but also a unique texture that keeps these bagels light and fluffy. I remember the first time I baked them, the herbs filled my kitchen with an inviting fragrance that had my family flocking to the kitchen!

One tip I discovered is to let the dough rest before shaping it into bagels. This allows the gluten to relax, making the shaping process easier and resulting in a more tender bagel. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in the final product!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
A delightful mix of herbs creates a burst of flavor in every bite
Cottage cheese makes them light yet satisfying
Perfect for any meal of the day – breakfast, lunch, or even a snack!

The Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a key ingredient in these Savory Herb Cottage Bagels, contributing a unique lightness and moisture. Its high protein content helps to keep these bagels fluffy while providing a satisfying bite. When mixed with the other ingredients, the cottage cheese gives the dough a creamy texture that enhances the overall chewiness of the bagels. Make sure to use full-fat cottage cheese for the best flavor and texture, as it brings more richness to the dough.

In addition to its textural benefits, cottage cheese also offers nutritional advantages. Compared to traditional bagel recipes that use more refined ingredients, using cottage cheese allows you to create a deliciously satisfying bagel that has less fat and more protein. This makes them a smart choice for those looking for a healthier alternative at breakfast or any meal throughout the day.

Making the Perfect Dough

When it comes to mixing the dough, it’s important to combine the wet and dry ingredients without overworking the dough. Overmixing can lead to a denser bagel rather than the desired fluffy texture. Mix until just combined; small lumps from the cottage cheese are acceptable. This will help retain that light and chewy quality that makes these bagels so enjoyable.

Another key to achieving the perfect dough is to allow it to rest briefly after mixing. While this recipe doesn’t require extensive proofing like traditional bagels, letting the formed dough sit for about 5 minutes can help relax the gluten, making it easier to shape. This resting period ensures that the bagels maintain their shape and rise properly during baking.

Baking Tips for Golden Bagels

For the best results, ensure your oven is fully preheated before you place the bagels inside. This helps them rise and bake evenly, resulting in a nice golden exterior. Baking these bagels at 375°F (190°C) allows them to develop a golden-brown color while keeping the inside moist and fluffy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking; the ideal texture is crispy on the outside yet soft on the inside.

If you find that your bagels aren’t browning as much as you'd like, consider adjusting your oven rack to the upper third of the oven during the last few minutes of baking. This can promote a deeper color on the tops. Additionally, for added flavor and an attractive shine, you might brush the tops with a bit of melted butter or olive oil just before baking.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

1 cup cottage cheese
1 large egg
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons dried mixed herbs (such as dill, thyme, and oregano)
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, and sugar. Mix well until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and herbs.

Form the Dough

Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.

Shape the Bagels

Lightly flour your hands and divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then use your finger to create a hole in the center, forming a bagel shape.

Bake

Place the bagels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite spreads!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating seeds like sesame or poppy on top of the bagels before baking, or experiment with different herb combinations based on your preference.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These Savory Herb Cottage Bagels can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect option for busy mornings. After baking, allow the bagels to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, these bagels freeze beautifully. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag with as much air removed as possible, and they can last for up to three months.

To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature if frozen, then pop them in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This will revive their softness and texture, ensuring that they taste almost freshly baked.

Endless Customizations

One of the great joys of making these bagels is the ability to customize the flavor profile. Experiment with different herb combinations or add-ins like shredded cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, or even seeds for added texture. If you want to create a sweeter variant, you can reduce the herbs and mix in cinnamon or nutmeg for a delicious breakfast treat that pairs wonderfully with cream cheese or fruit spreads.

For those on a gluten-free diet, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, and you may need to adjust the amount of liquid added to the dough. Always check for a dough consistency that is workable and not too sticky.

Serving Ideas

These bagels can be enjoyed in numerous ways. For a classic approach, serve them split with cream cheese and fresh herbs. They also serve as a hearty base for savory toppings like smoked salmon, cucumber slices, and capers for a delightful brunch option. You can even slice them in half and use them as sandwich bread, filling them with your favorite deli meats, cheeses, or roasted vegetables for a quick and satisfying lunch.

Additionally, these bagels make an excellent accompaniment to soups or salads. Their herbaceous flavor complements a wide range of dishes, making them a versatile addition to any meal plan. Try pairing them with a fresh garden salad for a light dinner or as a snack with a warm bowl of tomato soup for a comforting evening treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may change slightly.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make them gluten-free.

→ What can I serve these bagels with?

They're delicious with cream cheese, avocado, or even just a drizzle of olive oil.