Savory Herb Cottage Bagels

Name: Savory Herb Cottage Bagels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups of cottage cheese; 2 cups of all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp of baking soda; 1 tsp of garlic powder; 1 tsp of dried rosemary; 1 tsp of fresh chives, chopped; 1/2 tsp of salt

Highlighted under: Rustic Comfort Dishes

I absolutely love making these Savory Herb Cottage Bagels because they balance the rich, tangy flavor of cottage cheese with vibrant herbs. Each bite bursts with a delightful combination of flavors, making them perfect for breakfast or a snack. The best part is how easy they are to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. I've experimented with various herbs, but my favorite blend includes rosemary and chives that elevate the taste. Once you try these bagels, you won't want store-bought again!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-25T17:45:28.139Z

Making Savory Herb Cottage Bagels has become a weekend tradition in my home. I love how the cottage cheese adds moisture and creates a soft texture, while the herbs give a fresh burst of flavor. One day, I decided to add garlic powder, and it took the bagels to another level! It's a little tweak that made all the difference.

Now, I often whip up a batch to share with friends or to enjoy throughout the week. I've even experimented with adding sun-dried tomatoes for an extra punch. This recipe is so versatile and forgiving, allowing you to play around with different herbs and flavors until you find your perfect bagel!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Rich flavor from cottage cheese combined with fresh herbs
Soft and chewy texture that’s simply irresistible
Perfectly customizable with your favorite herbs and spices

Understanding the Role of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is the star ingredient in these bagels, contributing both moisture and a tangy flavor. Its high protein content helps create a pleasing texture, making the bagels soft and chewy. When using cottage cheese, choose a full-fat variety for the richest taste and best texture. If you're counting calories, low-fat options still work but may yield slightly drier results; a dash of olive oil can help combat this.

One important tip is to blend the cottage cheese slightly before mixing it with the other ingredients. This can help achieve a smoother consistency in the dough, enhancing the overall texture of your bagels. Simply pulse it a few times in a food processor until it’s creamy, ensuring it mixes seamlessly with the flour and cheeses.

Herb Customization and Flavor Profiles

The herbs you choose can dramatically influence the flavor profile of your bagels. While the recipe suggests rosemary and chives, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme, dill, or even crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick. Just be cautious of the quantities—some herbs can easily overpower the tanginess of the cottage cheese.

If you opt for fresh herbs, chop them finely to release their essential oils and flavors more effectively. For dried herbs, ensure they're fresh and aromatic; stale dried herbs might not have the same impact. To intensify the flavors even further, consider toasting the dried herbs in a small pan before adding them to the dough.

Perfecting the Boiling and Baking Technique

Boiling the bagels is a crucial step that enhances their chewy texture and gives them that classic bagel crust. Make sure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the bagels; this will prevent them from becoming too fluffy. When boiling, you can add a tablespoon of sugar to the water for a slightly sweeter crust, which complements the savory herbs beautifully.

After baking, keep an eye on the bagels, as oven temperatures can vary. Look for a golden-brown color and a firm texture when gently squeezed. If the bagels are browning unevenly, you can rotate them halfway through baking for uniform color. Once baked, let them cool on a wire rack to maintain their desired texture—this prevents them from becoming soggy on the bottom.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make the most flavorful Savory Herb Cottage Bagels:

For the Bagels

2 cups of cottage cheese
2 cups of all-purpose flour
1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp of baking soda
1 tsp of garlic powder
1 tsp of dried rosemary
1 tsp of fresh chives, chopped
1/2 tsp of salt

Feel free to adjust the herbs to your liking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect bagels:

Prepare the dough

In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, flour, Parmesan cheese, baking soda, garlic powder, rosemary, chives, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.

Shape the bagels

Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then use your finger to poke a hole in the center to form bagels.

Boil the bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Drop in the bagels a few at a time and boil for 2 minutes on each side. Remove and drain.

Bake the bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the boiled bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Allow the bagels to cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

Try experimenting with different herbs like dill or basil for unique flavors. You can also add seeds on top for extra crunch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These Savory Herb Cottage Bagels can be made ahead and stored for later enjoyment. Once completely cooled, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, ensuring you always have a delicious snack on hand.

When you're ready to enjoy a bagel from the freezer, simply remove it, and either let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or toast it directly from frozen. If toasting, keep an eye on it to avoid burning, adjusting the time based on your toaster's settings.

Serving Suggestions

These bagels shine on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience. Consider pairing them with cream cheese, hummus, or even a smoked salmon spread to complement their savory flavors. Adding slices of avocado, fresh tomatoes, or a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning can create a delightful open-faced sandwich.

For an innovative twist, try cutting the bagels in half and using them as a base for mini pizzas. Top with your favorite pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings, then bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This transforms the bagels into a fun, versatile dish that can be enjoyed during any meal.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels turn out too dense, it might be due to overworking the dough. Mix just until everything is combined—don't knead excessively. If the dough feels too tacky while shaping, dust your hands and the counter lightly with flour to help manage it without adding too much extra flour, which can lead to a drier bagel.

On the other hand, if the bagels spread too much while boiling or baking, consider chilling the shaped bagels for about 15-20 minutes before boiling. This helps them maintain their shape and allows for a better crust during baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any cheese you prefer, like feta or cheddar.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store the bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels without cottage cheese?

Yes, you can replace cottage cheese with Greek yogurt for a similar texture and flavor.

→ Is it necessary to boil the bagels?

Boiling the bagels gives them their classic chewy texture, but if you're short on time, you can bake them directly.