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Cottage Cheese Bagels Air Fryer Cottage Cheese Bagels - Easy, High-Protein, and Ready Fast

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup cottage cheese (small-curd or whipped; full-fat or low-fat both work)
  • 1–1 1/4 cups self-rising flour (or make your own: 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1 1/2 tsp baking powder + 1/4 tsp fine salt)
  • 1 large egg (for egg wash; optional but gives shine and color)
  • 1–2 tsp water or milk (to loosen the egg wash)
  • 1/2 tsp fine salt (if not using self-rising flour, adjust to taste)
  • Toppings (optional): Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or coarse salt
  • Oil spray (neutral, for the air fryer basket or parchment)
  • Equipment: Air fryer, mixing bowl, spatula, parchment (air-fryer safe) or a lightly oiled basket

Instructions
 

  • Prep the cottage cheese: If using regular cottage cheese, blend or mash it until mostly smooth for a tender crumb. Whipped cottage cheese can be used as-is.
  • Make the dough: In a bowl, combine cottage cheese with 1 cup self-rising flour. Mix with a spatula until a shaggy dough forms. If it’s very sticky, sprinkle in up to 1/4 cup more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
  • Knead briefly: Lightly flour your hands and surface. Knead the dough 30–45 seconds until smooth. Avoid over-kneading to keep it soft.
  • Divide and shape: Split dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each into a rope about 6–7 inches long, then pinch the ends to form a ring. Smooth the seam so it doesn’t open during cooking.
  • Preheat and prepare: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes. Line the basket with air-fryer-safe parchment or lightly spray with oil.
  • Egg wash and toppings: Whisk the egg with 1–2 tsp water or milk. Brush the bagels and add your chosen toppings generously.
  • Air fry: Place bagels in a single layer with space between them. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 10–13 minutes, flipping at the 7–8 minute mark. They’re done when golden on both sides and cooked through.
  • Cool slightly: Let them rest on a rack for 5–10 minutes. This sets the texture and makes slicing easier.
  • Serve: Enjoy warm, or slice and toast. Great with cream cheese, smoked salmon, eggs, avocado, or jam.