Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels are quickly becoming a staple in low-carb kitchens—and for good reason. They’re soft, chewy, incredibly satisfying, and packed with protein thanks to the secret ingredient: cottage cheese. Unlike traditional bagels that can pack in over 50 grams of carbs each, these keto-friendly versions come in at just a fraction of that, making them perfect for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle.
Looking for inspiration? Try this simple recipe for cottage cheese bagels that’s already a fan favorite.
Table of Contents
What Are Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels?
Understanding Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels in a Low-Carb Lifestyle
Keto cottage cheese bagels are a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional bagels, crafted to keep you within your daily net carb limit without sacrificing taste. In a standard ketogenic diet, carb intake is typically limited to 20–50 grams per day. Regular bagels are loaded with refined flour and sugar, but keto versions ditch the grains for nutrient-dense, low-carb ingredients.
The key to these bagels is using almond flour and cottage cheese, which deliver that signature bagel texture while keeping carbs low and protein high. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned low-carb eater, this is one breakfast item you’ll want on repeat.
Discover great ideas like this gluten-free version of cottage cheese bagels that’s perfect for even more dietary needs.
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Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 bagels 1x
Description
Soft, chewy, protein-packed keto bagels made with cottage cheese and almond flour. Low-carb, gluten-free, and perfect for breakfast or snacks.
Ingredients
- 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
- 1 ½ cups blanched almond flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp psyllium husk (optional)
- ½ tsp sea salt
- 1 tbsp Everything Bagel seasoning (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Blend cottage cheese in a food processor until smooth.
- In a bowl, mix almond flour, baking powder, psyllium husk (if using), and sea salt.
- Whisk eggs in a separate bowl, then add blended cottage cheese. Combine with dry ingredients and stir until dough forms. Let rest 3–5 minutes if using psyllium.
- Divide dough into 6 portions. Shape into balls, flatten slightly, and make a hole in the center to form bagels.
- Place bagels on baking tray, top with Everything Bagel seasoning, and bake 22–25 minutes until golden.
- Cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Store in fridge up to 5 days or freeze up to 3 months. Toast before serving for best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Keto
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Why Cottage Cheese Is Perfect for Keto Bagels
Cottage cheese might not be the first ingredient that comes to mind when you think of baking bagels, but it’s actually ideal for keto. It’s low in carbs, high in protein, and creates an ultra-moist and tender crumb when baked. Plus, it adds structure and helps reduce the need for large amounts of flour substitutes.
Check out the nutritional snapshot per ½ cup (about 113g):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 100 |
| Protein | 13g |
| Net Carbs | 3–4g |
| Fat | 4g |
Make sure to choose a full-fat, low-sugar version for optimal keto benefits. Also, blending the cottage cheese gives the batter a smoother texture—making your bagels more cohesive and fluffy.
Don’t miss our Bethenny Frankel-inspired take on cottage cheese bagels if you’re looking for celebrity-approved health food.
The Benefits of Using Cottage Cheese in Bagels
Why Cottage Cheese Is a Keto Powerhouse
When it comes to crafting truly nutritious keto cottage cheese bagels, cottage cheese is more than just a filler—it’s a functional superfood. Here’s why it’s one of the best low-carb ingredients you can add to your baking:
- Low in carbs: One serving (½ cup) of full-fat cottage cheese contains just 3–4g net carbs.
- High in protein: With around 13g of protein per serving, it supports muscle maintenance and satiety.
- Rich in calcium & B vitamins: It supports bone health and energy metabolism—key areas for keto dieters.
- Contains probiotics: Some cottage cheeses include live cultures, which are great for gut health.
Its gentle taste and creamy texture make it an excellent choice for baking. Unlike Greek yogurt or cream cheese, it blends effortlessly into a dough, improving both the flavor and consistency of your keto bagels.
Looking for a 2-ingredient base? Don’t miss our 2-ingredient bagel with cottage cheese—a minimalist keto favorite.
Health Benefits of Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels
Keto cottage cheese bagels aren’t just about saving carbs—they offer several health benefits that make them a smarter choice than traditional bagels.
Here’s what sets them apart:
| Benefit | Traditional Bagels | Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels |
|---|---|---|
| Net Carbs | 40–50g | 3–5g |
| Protein | 7–9g | 13–17g |
| Blood Sugar Impact | High | Low |
| Keeps You Full Longer | ❌ | ✅ |
| Good for Ketosis | ❌ | ✅ |
These bagels offer the satisfaction of a carb-heavy meal while supporting ketosis. They’re great for breakfast, post-workout snacks, or even a lunch sandwich base.
Check out this unique take: cottage cheese bagels with bread flour, ideal for those transitioning from high-carb to low-carb eating.
Ingredients Needed for Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels
Essential Ingredients for Making Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels
Creating keto cottage cheese bagels at home is surprisingly easy when you’ve got the right low-carb ingredients. The magic lies in using keto-approved staples that provide structure, flavor, and the perfect chewy texture—without the carbs.
Here’s what you’ll need for the base recipe:
| Ingredient | Purpose | Keto-Friendly? |
|---|---|---|
| Cottage Cheese | Moisture, protein, structure | ✅ Yes |
| Almond Flour | Main flour substitute, adds chewiness | ✅ Yes |
| Baking Powder | Helps the bagels rise | ✅ Yes |
| Eggs | Binding agent and adds fluff | ✅ Yes |
| Psyllium Husk (opt.) | Adds fiber and density | ✅ Yes |
| Everything Bagel Mix | Adds flavor, crunch, and color on top | ✅ Yes |
| Sea Salt | Enhances flavor | ✅ Yes |
Pro Tip: Blend the cottage cheese until smooth before adding it to the dry mix. This ensures your dough is evenly combined and easy to shape.
Want a version even higher in protein? Discover our high-protein cottage cheese bagels packed with extra muscle-fueling goodness.
Best Keto-Friendly Brands and Substitutions
If you’re shopping for ingredients, here are some keto-approved brands and product tips to help you stay on track:
- Cottage Cheese: Look for full-fat, no-added-sugar options. Good Culture and Daisy are clean choices with minimal carbs.
- Almond Flour: Always opt for blanched almond flour, not almond meal. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill and Kirkland (Costco) work well.
- Egg Alternatives: Want it egg-free? Try flax eggs (1 tbsp flax + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
- Flavor Boosters: Add shredded cheddar, garlic powder, or rosemary for a twist without affecting carb count.
Experimenting with flavors? Check out this creative twist from Bethenny Frankel’s bagel recipe that went viral for a reason.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels
How to Make Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels at Home
Making your own keto cottage cheese bagels is easier than you might think. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have soft, chewy bagels perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a guilt-free snack. Here’s exactly how to do it:
Ingredients (Yields 6 Bagels):
- 1 cup full-fat cottage cheese
- 1 ½ cups blanched almond flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp psyllium husk (optional for texture)
- ½ tsp sea salt
- 1 tbsp Everything Bagel seasoning (optional for topping)
Step 1: Blend the Cottage Cheese
Begin by adding the cottage cheese to a food processor or high-powered blender. Blend until completely smooth. This step is essential to avoid lumps and to give your dough a silky texture.
FAQ Answer: Yes, blending cottage cheese is highly recommended to get a smoother, more cohesive dough for baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine:
- Almond flour
- Baking powder
- Psyllium husk (if using)
- Sea salt
Stir well to eliminate any clumps. In a separate bowl, whisk your eggs, then add them and the blended cottage cheese to your dry mix. Stir with a silicone spatula until the dough forms.
Tip: Let the dough sit for 3–5 minutes if using psyllium. It will firm up and become easier to shape.
Step 3: Shape the Bagels
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
With lightly greased hands, divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Shape each piece into a ball, press it down gently, and make a hole in the middle for a bagel form.
Step 4: Add Toppings and Bake
Place your shaped bagels on the tray. Top with Everything Bagel seasoning or sesame seeds, then bake 22–25 minutes until golden and set.
Allow them to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps lock in the structure and makes cutting easier.
Keto Cottage Cheese Bagel Tips:
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Blend the cottage cheese | Creates smooth texture |
| Use parchment paper | Prevents sticking and burns |
| Let bagels rest after baking | Improves slicing and final structure |
| Toast before serving (optional) | Adds a crisp bite and intensifies flavor |
Check out this incredibly easy 2-ingredient version of cottage cheese bagels if you’re short on time but craving something keto-friendly.
Variations & Flavor Ideas for Your Bagels
Savory Twists on Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels
One of the best things about keto cottage cheese bagels is how easily they adapt to your flavor cravings. Whether you love bold spices or simple herbs, you can dress them up without compromising their keto-friendly profile.
Here are a few savory ideas:
| Variation | Additions |
|---|---|
| Garlic Herb | Minced garlic + dried oregano + parmesan |
| Everything Bagel | Everything Bagel Seasoning blend (garlic, onion, poppy, sesame, salt) |
| Jalapeño Cheddar | Chopped jalapeños + shredded cheddar cheese |
| Bacon & Chive | Cooked bacon bits + chopped chives |
| Olive & Feta | Sliced black olives + crumbled feta cheese |
Each version still stays within keto macros and adds just 1–2g of net carbs at most. These flavors also work perfectly for sandwiches, brunch boards, or as a side to soups and salads.
Sweet & Keto-Friendly Bagel Ideas
Craving something sweet but still low-carb? You don’t have to miss out. These sweet keto bagel flavors use no sugar, just smart alternatives like monk fruit, erythritol, and natural extracts.
Try these dessert-style versions:
| Flavor | Mix-Ins |
|---|---|
| Cinnamon Swirl | 1 tsp cinnamon + 1 tbsp erythritol (mixed in dough) |
| Vanilla Almond | 1 tsp vanilla extract + slivered almonds |
| Pumpkin Spice | 1 tsp pumpkin spice blend + touch of stevia |
| Chocolate Chip | Sugar-free chocolate chips like Lily’s brand |
| Lemon Poppy Seed | Lemon zest + ½ tsp poppy seeds + monk fruit drops |
Top them with cream cheese, almond butter, or even keto-friendly jam for the ultimate morning treat.
Don’t miss our gluten-free cottage cheese bagel version—perfect as a base for both savory and sweet toppings.
Storage, Reheating & Freezing Tips
Do Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels Need to Be Refrigerated?
Yes, keto cottage cheese bagels should be refrigerated. Because they contain dairy (cottage cheese and eggs), they’re more perishable than traditional bread. Leaving them at room temperature for more than 24 hours can lead to spoilage or sogginess.
Storage tip: Once fully cooled, place them in an airtight container or a zip-lock bag lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
FAQ Answer: Yes, they should be refrigerated to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage due to the high protein and dairy content.
Freezer-Friendly? Absolutely.
If you’re meal prepping or want to enjoy bagels on demand, freezing is a great option.
Here’s how to freeze them:
- Let the bagels cool completely after baking.
- Slice (if you plan to toast them later).
- Wrap each piece separately in parchment paper or plastic wrap.
- Store in a freezer-safe zip bag for up to 3 months.
To reheat, you can:
- Microwave for 30 seconds (from thawed)
- Toast for a crispy exterior
- Oven bake at 300°F for 5–7 minutes
Pro tip: If you’re using them for sandwiches, toast them directly from frozen for best texture.
Don’t miss our creative high-protein recipe spin that also freezes beautifully and holds up well for batch cooking.
Nutritional Facts & Macros Breakdown
What’s Inside a Keto Cottage Cheese Bagel?
When you’re following a ketogenic lifestyle, tracking your macros is crucial. The good news? Keto cottage cheese bagels are not just low in carbs—they’re loaded with protein and healthy fats, making them an ideal breakfast, snack, or sandwich base.
Here’s the approximate nutrition per bagel (based on a recipe yielding 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Per Bagel |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180–200 kcal |
| Fat | 13g |
| Protein | 14g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Net Carbs | 3g |
Note: Numbers vary slightly based on brands used (especially cottage cheese and almond flour).
With just 3g net carbs per serving, these bagels easily fit into even strict keto meal plans. And thanks to the protein and fiber, they’re highly satiating—keeping you fuller, longer.
Looking for something even lower in carbs? Discover our 2-ingredient cottage cheese bagel version that trims down ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
How Do These Compare to Traditional Bagels?
Let’s put keto cottage cheese bagels side-by-side with a typical store-bought bagel:
| Type | Net Carbs | Protein | Fat | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular White Bagel (Plain) | 44g | 9g | 1g | 250–300 kcal |
| Keto Cottage Cheese Bagel | 3g | 14g | 13g | 180–200 kcal |
As you can see, keto bagels offer a fraction of the carbs, double the protein, and contain healthy fats—ideal for sustained energy without blood sugar spikes.
FAQs
Do cottage cheese bagels need to be refrigerated?
Yes, they do. Because these bagels contain cottage cheese and eggs, they should be refrigerated to stay fresh and safe. After cooling, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them using parchment wrap and a sealed freezer bag.
Is cottage cheese keto safe?
Absolutely. Cottage cheese is naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it a smart choice for keto. Look for full-fat versions without added sugars—around 3–4g net carbs per ½ cup is standard. It’s perfect for baking and adds both structure and nutrition to your meals.
Do you have to blend cottage cheese to make bagels?
While not mandatory, blending is strongly recommended. Unblended cottage cheese can leave small curds that affect the dough’s texture and bake. A smooth cottage cheese blend integrates more evenly, giving you a fluffier, well-structured bagel.
What bagels are keto friendly?
Keto-friendly bagels are made without traditional wheat flour or added sugars. They often use almond flour, coconut flour, eggs, and cottage cheese or Greek yogurt for structure. Our keto cottage cheese bagels offer a tasty, low-carb option with only 3g net carbs per serving—a fraction of regular bagels.
Looking for a fun twist? Try this bread-flour based cottage cheese bagel to explore texture variations while still keeping it low-carb.
Final Thoughts & More Keto Recipes to Try
Keto cottage cheese bagels are more than just a smart substitute for carb-heavy bread—they’re a lifestyle upgrade. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, these bagels offer a reliable, protein-rich option that fits easily into your meal plan.
With just a few simple ingredients, they come together fast and deliver satisfying results every time. The blend of almond flour and cottage cheese creates that classic chewiness, while offering the nutritional profile keto eaters crave: low carbs, high protein, and healthy fats.
They’re also highly versatile. Dress them up savory with herbs and cheese, or go sweet with cinnamon and keto chocolate chips. Store them Keep them in the fridge, freeze them for later, or toast fresh each morning—they fit your routine.
Don’t miss our easy 2-ingredient bagel version if you’re looking to simplify your meal prep routine.
Looking for inspiration? Try our high-protein cottage cheese bagels, or explore Bethenny Frankel’s twist on this viral favorite.
Check out this gluten-free cottage cheese bagel recipe that works perfectly for anyone avoiding gluten.
Make a batch this week—and discover just how easy and delicious keto baking can be.
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