Go Back
Stack of golden brown keto bagels topped with everything seasoning on a wooden board ready for breakfast.

Easy Air Fryer Cottage Cheese Bagels

Whip up delicious, protein-packed bagels in under 30 minutes with this incredibly simple air fryer recipe using just a few basic ingredients. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 bagels
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup cottage cheese full-fat or 2%, well-drained if watery
  • 1 cup self-rising flour see notes for substitute
  • 1 large egg whisked, for egg wash
  • 1 tbsp Everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds, poppy seeds

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Prepare the Dough
  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the well-drained cottage cheese and self-rising flour. Mix with a spatula or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
  2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 1-2 minutes until it comes together into a smooth, cohesive ball. Do not over-knead.
Shape the Bagels
  1. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a small ball, then flatten slightly. Use your finger to poke a hole in the center of each dough ball and gently stretch to form a bagel shape, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
  2. Place the formed bagels on a small piece of parchment paper cut to fit your air fryer basket. This prevents sticking and makes transfer easier.
Air Fry
  1. In a small bowl, whisk the egg to create an egg wash. Brush the tops and sides of each bagel generously with the egg wash.
  2. Sprinkle the Everything bagel seasoning over the egg-washed bagels.
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  4. Carefully transfer the bagels (with their parchment paper) to the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overcrowding the basket. You may need to cook in batches.
  5. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bagels are golden brown and cooked through. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model.
Serve
  1. Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing and serving with your favorite toppings like cream cheese, avocado, or smoked salmon.

Notes

Self-rising flour substitute: If you don't have self-rising flour, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour with 1.5 teaspoons baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Dough consistency: If your dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon more flour. If it's too dry, add a tiny bit more cottage cheese or a splash of milk.
Storage: Leftover bagels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days. Reheat briefly in the air fryer or toaster.