Gluten-Free Cottage Cheese Bagels (High Protein & Super Easy)

Looking for a quick, high-protein gluten-free snack that actually tastes amazing? These Gluten-Free Cottage Cheese Bagels are soft, chewy, and ready in under 30 minutes – no yeast, no kneading and no waiting around/rising time.

Made with just a handful of simple ingredients (including protein-packed cottage cheese!), these bagels are a game-changer for busy gluten-free families. They’re perfect for kids’ lunchboxes, post-sport snacks, or a grab-and-go breakfast that won’t leave you hungry 20 minutes later.

Even better? They’re endlessly customisable and oven or air fryer friendly – and they even freeze like a dream. Whether you’re feeding a coeliac kid, a protein-hungry teen, or just want a better gluten-free bread option, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

How To Make Cottage Cheese Bagels Gluten-Free

Step 1: Preheat oven to 180°C (360°F) and line a baking tray with baking paper.

Step 2: Blend the cottage cheese in a food processor or with a stick blender until smooth. This helps give the bagels a better texture and ensures the dough comes together evenly.

Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the smooth cottage cheese, gluten-free flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until a sticky dough forms.

💡 Note: Make sure your gluten-free flour blend includes xanthan gum, which helps mimic the stretchiness of gluten and gives structure to baked goods. If your flour doesn’t contain it, add 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum to the mix.

Step 4: Lightly flour your hands and divide the dough into three equal portions for bigger bagels, or four equal portions for slightly smaller bagels.

Step 5: Roll each portion into a log, then shape into a ring (bagel shape), pressing the ends together to seal.

Step 6: Place on the baking tray, brush with the beaten egg, and sprinkle with your choice of toppings (optional).

Step 7: Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. Baking time may vary depending on your oven though.

Step 8: Let them cool slightly before attempting to slice. Enjoy!

Why Cottage Cheese Works So Well

Cottage cheese is becoming a go-to ingredient in high-protein recipes – and it’s easy to see why.

Not only is it naturally rich in protein, but it also adds moisture (great for gluten-free baking) and helps create a soft, chewy texture without the need for oil or butter. Blending it smooth makes it practically undetectable in the final product, making it ideal for kids who might turn up their nose at stronger flavours.

It’s also a sneaky way to boost nutrition for kids without changing the taste, especially if you or your kids aren’t a fan of Greek Yogurt that we use in these Gluten-Free Air Fryer Bagels.

Serving & Storage Tips

These gluten-free bagels are best eaten fresh, but they also freeze really well too:

• Room temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
• Fridge: Store for up to 2 days, and lightly warm in the microwave, or toast before eating.
• Freezer: Freeze baked bagels for up to 1 month. Reheat in toaster or oven.

Fun Ideas for Toppings or Fillings

These bagels are a blank canvas! You can make them savoury or sweet depending on how you top or fill them:

Sweet:

• Cinnamon sugar
• Honey or maple drizzle
• Jam or nut butter
• Mini choc chips mixed into dough

Savoury:

• Grated cheese or feta
• Garlic & herb seasoning
• Everything bagel mix
• Smashed avocado, tomato, ham, or egg for sandwiches

FAQs on making GF Cottage Cheese Bagels

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes – it will still work, though full-fat definitely gives the best texture.

Do I need to drain the cottage cheese?
Only if it’s extremely watery. Most store-bought varieties are fine as-is. I just give it a stir in the carton before I measure it out.

Can I make these egg-free?
Yes – the egg is just for brushing. You can skip it or brush with milk or olive oil instead.

What gluten-free flour is best?
Use a reliable GF all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum or another binder. Avoid using single flours (like almond or rice flour) alone, as you won’t get the same texture.