Description

Discover a unique and delightful bread experience with these soft yet chewy Cottage Cheese Flagels. Combining the creamy tang of cottage cheese with the classic bagel texture, they make a versatile snack or meal option that is light, wholesome, and easy to prepare using simple kitchen staples.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat, based on preference)
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted (or half all-purpose and half whole wheat flour for a twist)
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
1 egg (optional, for brushing)

Optional Add-ins and Toppings

Dried rosemary or thyme (for herb infusion)
Garlic powder or onion flakes (for savory richness)
Sesame, poppy, or sunflower seeds (for sprinkling on top)
Plant-based cottage cheese alternative (for dairy-free version)

Instructions

Activate the Yeast: Begin by warming your water to about 110°F (43°C). In a small bowl, combine warm water with sugar and yeast, stirring gently. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, which indicates the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, salt, and the activated yeast mixture. Gradually add flour while mixing well until the dough starts coming together. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook or mix by hand for about 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Cover the dough with a clean towel or plastic wrap and allow it to rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial to develop flavor and texture.
Shape the Flagels: Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air. Divide it into equal portions (usually 8 pieces). Roll each portion into a ball, then poke a hole through the center with your finger, widening it slightly to form the classic bagel shape.
Second Rise and Boiling: Let the shaped dough rest for another 15 minutes. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Drop each flagel into the boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes per side; this step helps create the perfect chewy crust.
Bake to Perfection: Transfer the boiled flagels onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Optional: Brush with beaten egg for color and sprinkle with seeds. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown and irresistible.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients to help the dough come together smoothly and rise properly.
Don’t skip the boiling step, as it gives the flagels their characteristic chew and glossy exterior.
Be patient and let the dough rise fully to produce flagels that are airy inside but dense enough to hold toppings.
Adjust flour as needed, depending on the moisture content of your cottage cheese.
Experiment with toppings such as coarse salt, seeds, or cheese shreds for added texture and flavor.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 flagel
Calories: 180
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: cottage cheese flagels, soft bagels, homemade bagels, cheesy bagels, easy bread recipe, chewy bagels, savory buns