These Garlic Parmesan Cottage Cheese Bagels are a tasty twist on a classic breakfast! They combine creamy cottage cheese with garlic and cheesy goodness for a delicious bite.
Perfect for busy mornings, I love to toast them for a crispy finish. And let’s be honest, who can resist the smell of garlic wafting through the kitchen? Yum! 🧄🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: I recommend using full-fat cottage cheese for creaminess and flavor. You can swap it with ricotta cheese for a smoother texture or non-fat cottage cheese for a lighter version, but the overall taste may differ.
Eggs: Large eggs help bind the ingredients and add moisture. If you’re looking for an egg-free option, try using flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) for a similar binding effect.
Almond Flour: This adds a wonderful nutty flavor and keeps the bagels low-carb. You can replace it with coconut flour, but use much less (about 1/4 cup), as it absorbs more moisture. Gluten-free all-purpose flour is another good option if you’re avoiding nuts.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can work, but you’ll need about 1/8-1/4 teaspoon to replace each clove. I love adding extra garlic for a stronger taste!
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a nice salty flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a good substitute, or you can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Shape Bagels Properly?
Shaping bagels can be tricky, but it’s easier than you might think! Here’s how to do it:
- After dividing the dough, wet your hands to prevent sticking.
- Roll each portion into a ball first, then poke a hole through the center with your thumb.
- Gently stretch the hole with your fingers or thumb to make it wide enough. Keep in mind that the bagels will puff up in the oven!
Taking this extra step will help you create evenly shaped bagels. Plus, don’t worry too much about perfection—homemade is all about comfort!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Cottage Cheese Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bagels:
- 1 ½ cups cottage cheese (full fat)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 ¾ cups almond flour (or finely ground almond meal)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for topping)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. All in all, you’ll need around 35-40 minutes to enjoy these delicious Garlic Parmesan Cottage Cheese Bagels fresh out of the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will make sure your bagels don’t stick!
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, and dried parsley. Mix everything together until the mixture is fairly uniform. Want a smoother texture? You can use a hand blender or a food processor to blend it nicely!
3. Whisk the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. This will ensure all the dry ingredients are well mixed and ready to join the wet mixture.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until everything is fully combined into a dough. The dough should feel sticky but hold together nicely.
5. Shape the Bagels:
With either wet or lightly floured hands, divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then use your finger to create a hole in the center to form the bagel shape. Place the shaped bagels onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Add Toppings:
For an extra burst of flavor and that beautiful golden crust, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan and dried parsley on top of each bagel.
7. Bake the Bagels:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bagels turn golden brown and are cooked through. They’ll smell amazing, too!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These bagels are delightful warm and can be enjoyed on their own or with your favorite spreads. Enjoy your cheesy, garlicky, and low-carb cottage cheese bagels!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese, but keep in mind that it might alter the texture a bit. Full-fat cottage cheese provides more creaminess and flavor, which greatly enhances the bagels.
Can I Add Other Herbs or Spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with herbs and spices. Adding chopped fresh basil, chives, or even some red pepper flakes can give your bagels a unique flavor twist!
How to Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them! Just wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag; they can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can These Bagels Be Made Vegan?
You can make these bagels vegan by replacing the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and using a dairy-free cheese alternative. However, the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
