These 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Cottage Cheese Bagels are quick and fun to make! Just mix cottage cheese, egg, and flour to create a simple dough that’s soft and chewy.
I can’t resist how these bagels puff up in the air fryer! They make a perfect snack, breakfast, or can even be topped with your favorite spreads. Easy-peasy and oh so tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese adds creaminess to your bagels. If you’re looking for a lower fat option, try low-fat cottage cheese. Greek yogurt can also work as a tangy alternative and adds similar moisture.
Self-Rising Flour: This flour already has baking powder and salt, saving you a step. If you don’t have it, you can DIY by mixing 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1½ teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients and add richness. For a vegan substitute, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg).
Everything Bagel Seasoning: This is a great way to add flavor. You can make your own using equal parts of sesame seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, poppy seeds, and salt if you can’t find it in stores.
How Do You Get the Dough to the Right Consistency?
Getting the dough right is key! After mixing the cottage cheese, self-rising flour, and eggs, it should be a bit sticky but still workable. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour until you can handle it without making a mess.
- Start with all ingredients in a bowl or food processor.
- Mix until just combined; don’t overwork the dough.
- Your hands should be floured to shape the bagels; this helps prevent sticking.
Remember, the dough can be forgiving, so don’t stress too much if it feels a little off at first! A light touch goes a long way here!
3 Ingredient Air Fryer Cottage Cheese Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagel Dough:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably full-fat)
- 1¼ cups self-rising flour (plus extra for kneading)
- 2 large eggs
Optional Toppings:
- Everything bagel seasoning (sesame seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, poppy seeds, sea salt, crushed red pepper flakes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to cook, plus an extra few minutes for cooling. Overall, you can have fresh, delicious bagels ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a food processor or mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, self-rising flour, and eggs. Mix or pulse the mixture until a dough forms and everything is well combined. The dough will be slightly sticky but should be easy to handle.
2. Shape the Bagels:
Lightly flour your hands and a clean work surface. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball. To shape each ball into a bagel, use your thumb to create a hole in the center. Gently stretch the dough to form the bagel shape.
3. Add Toppings:
If you like, sprinkle everything bagel seasoning or your favorite toppings on each bagel. Lightly press them onto the dough so that they stick well.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and preheat for about 3-5 minutes. This helps the bagels cook evenly and get that nice golden color.
5. Air Fry the Bagels:
Carefully place the bagels in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might have to cook them in batches, which is okay!
6. Cook:
Air fry the bagels at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. At the halfway point, check on them and rotate the basket if necessary for even browning.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once cooking is done, carefully remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve them warm with cream cheese, butter, or any of your favorite toppings!
Enjoy your quick, simple, and delicious cottage cheese bagels made in the air fryer!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
While cottage cheese is key for this recipe, you can experiment with other similar cheeses like ricotta. Just keep in mind that the texture might differ slightly, making the bagels a bit denser or creamier.
How Do I Know When the Bagels Are Done?
The bagels are done when they are golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when you tap on them. If you’re unsure, you can always check the internal temperature; it should reach about 190°F (88°C).
Can I Freeze These Bagels?
Absolutely! Once the bagels are completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes.
What Should I Serve with Cottage Cheese Bagels?
These bagels are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with cream cheese, avocado, or homemade spreads. You can also top them with smoked salmon, sliced cucumbers, or fresh herbs for a tasty addition!
