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Protein-Packed Bagels with Cottage Cheese or Greek Yogurt: Better Than the Bakery!

Freshly baked high-protein bagel made with Greek yogurt, sliced with cream cheese spread

Why Settle for Empty Carbs When You Can Have Protein-Packed Bagels?

If you love bagels but hate the mid-morning crash, this recipe is about to change your breakfast game. Traditional bagels are delicious but loaded with refined carbs and low in protein—meaning you’ll feel hungry again in no time.

These high-protein bagels made with cottage cheese or Greek yogurt are soft, chewy, and just as satisfying as your favorite bakery bagel, but they pack double the protein and keep you fuller for longer. Plus, they’re so easy to make—no yeast, no boiling, no waiting hours for dough to rise.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal-prepper, or just someone looking for healthier swaps, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Why These Bagels Are Better Than Normal Bagels

Before we get to the recipe, let’s talk about the big differences:

  • More Protein, Less Crash – Thanks to cottage cheese or Greek yogurt, you’re getting a breakfast that keeps blood sugar stable.
  • Lower in Calories – Swapping refined flour-heavy dough for this protein-rich version reduces overall calories without sacrificing taste.
  • Gut-Friendly – Cottage cheese and Greek yogurt contain probiotics (especially if you choose live-culture brands), supporting digestive health.
  • Faster & Easier – No yeast means no proofing time. You can go from craving to eating in under 30 minutes.

The High-Protein Bagel Recipe

Ingredients (Makes 4 Bagels)

  • 1 cup self-rising flour (or 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1 ½ tsp baking powder + ½ tsp salt)
  • 1 cup cottage cheese or plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat both work)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Optional toppings: everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, shredded cheese

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2️⃣ Mix the Dough

In a medium bowl, combine the self-rising flour with cottage cheese or Greek yogurt. Stir until a thick dough forms, then use your hands to knead it for 1–2 minutes until smooth.

Mixing Greek yogurt with self-rising flour to make protein bagel dough

3️⃣ Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a rope and join the ends to form a bagel shape.

Shaped protein bagels before baking on parchment paper

4️⃣ Add Toppings

Place bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Beat the egg and brush it on top for a shiny finish. Sprinkle with your favorite bagel toppings.

5️⃣ Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool slightly before slicing.

Nutrition Benefits (per bagel)

  • Calories: ~150–170
  • Protein: 10–12g
  • Carbs: 20–25g
  • Fat: 3–5g

Compared to a typical bakery bagel (around 300 calories with only 8–9g protein), these are a game-changer for anyone watching their macros or trying to stay full longer.

Serving Ideas for Your High-Protein Bagels

  • Savory: Top with avocado, smoked salmon, and fresh dill.
  • Sweet: Spread with almond butter and sliced strawberries.
  • Breakfast Sandwich: Add scrambled eggs, turkey bacon, and spinach.
Protein bagel topped with smoked salmon, avocado, and fresh dill

Tips for Success

  • Dough Too Sticky? Add a bit more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
  • Want Gluten-Free? Use a gluten-free self-rising flour blend.
  • Extra Tang? Try half cottage cheese and half Greek yogurt for the best of both worlds.
Stack of golden brown protein bagels with seasoning jar in background

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Loss & Muscle Gain

  • Protein Boost helps preserve muscle mass while supporting recovery after workouts.
  • Lower Glycemic Load prevents the energy spike and crash common with regular bagels.
  • Volume Eating Friendly – You feel full on fewer calories, making it easier to stick to your nutrition goals.

Final Thoughts

Making your own high-protein bagels at home is quick, easy, and far healthier than grabbing a carb-heavy bagel from the store. You get all the taste and satisfaction with added benefits for your health, fitness, and energy levels.

💬 Have Questions or Suggestions?
If you try this recipe and have any tips, variations, or feedback, feel free to contact me here. I’d love to hear your ideas!

Want More Healthy, High-Protein Recipes?

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Michael Guadagni

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