Sun-Dried Tomato Cottage Bagels

Name: Sun-Dried Tomato Cottage Bagels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup warm water; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Sun-Dried Tomato Cottage Bagels because they combine the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes with the creamy texture of cottage cheese. Every time I bake a batch, my whole kitchen fills with the most tantalizing aroma, inviting everyone to come and share in my creation. These bagels are perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack, and I find that the preparation is surprisingly simple. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up something that not only tastes amazing but also showcases my love for cooking.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-25T19:06:27.506Z

When I first experimented with Sun-Dried Tomato Cottage Bagels, I didn’t expect them to become a staple in my kitchen. The unique blend of flavors from the sun-dried tomatoes and cottage cheese creates a moist bagel that is both satisfying and rich in taste. I discovered that letting the dough rest briefly before boiling made all the difference in achieving that chewy bagel texture that I adore.

After many attempts, I learned to finely chop the sun-dried tomatoes and mix them thoroughly into the dough. This technique ensures every bite bursts with flavor. I also love topping them with a sprinkle of sesame seeds before baking, which adds a delightful crunch. Trust me, you’ll want to share these with family and friends!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Deliciously savory with a hint of sweetness from the sun-dried tomatoes
Cottage cheese adds moisture and a unique texture
Perfect for breakfast or as a tasty snack any time of the day

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving the perfect texture for your Sun-Dried Tomato Cottage Bagels lies in the balance between flour and cottage cheese. The cottage cheese not only enhances the moisture content but also provides a delightful creaminess that complements the savory sun-dried tomatoes. When measuring the flour, be sure to spoon it into the measuring cup rather than scooping directly, as this prevents compacting and ensures a lighter bagel texture.

Sun-dried tomatoes are packed with concentrated flavor, but they can be quite salty. If you prefer less salt in your bagels, select varieties that are packed in oil without added salt, or lightly rinse them before chopping. This small adjustment can help you control the overall flavor balance in your bagels, allowing the other ingredients to shine through.

Knitting Together the Dough

Properly kneading your bagel dough is crucial for developing gluten, which gives the bagels their characteristic chewy texture. After combining the ingredients, gently knead for about five minutes until the dough is smooth and stretchy. Avoid over-kneading, which can lead to a tougher bagel; a simple test is to stretch a small piece of dough—if it holds together without tearing, you're good to go!

When dividing the dough, aim for uniform portions to ensure even baking. Using a kitchen scale can be beneficial if you want to be precise; each piece should weigh about 2 ounces. This will help you achieve consistently sized bagels that cook evenly, thereby enhancing your baking experience.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Sun-Dried Tomato Cottage Bagels:

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup warm water
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for topping)

With these ingredients, you’re ready to create your delicious bagels!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Sun-Dried Tomato Cottage Bagels:

Prepare the Bagel Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, warm water, and sugar. Add this mixture to the flour and mix until a dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces, roll each piece into a ball, and then poke a hole in the center to form the bagel shape.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently drop the bagels into the boiling water, cooking for about 1 minute on each side. Remove them and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle sesame seeds over the boiled bagels if desired. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool a bit before enjoying!

Now you have your fresh Sun-Dried Tomato Cottage Bagels ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the dough. You can also experiment with different cheese types if cottage cheese isn’t your favorite.

Serving Suggestions

These bagels are fantastic as a standalone snack, but they can also be elevated with a variety of toppings. Consider spreading a layer of cream cheese infused with herbs or garlic for a flavorful twist. For a heartier option, layer smoked salmon and leafy greens on top, transforming your bagels into a gourmet brunch dish that impresses with minimal effort.

Another excellent serving suggestion is to slice the bagels in half and toast them lightly. This adds a delightful crunch and a warm surface for more toppings. Pair them with homemade pesto or avocado for a fresh and vibrant meal any time of the day.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover bagels, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, these bagels freeze beautifully. Individually wrap them in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored this way for up to three months, ensuring you have a delicious snack ready whenever cravings strike.

When you're ready to enjoy frozen bagels, there's no need to defrost them—simply bake directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and golden. This makes them a convenient option for breakfast or a quick snack, delivering homemade freshness without the fuss.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but be aware that it may alter the texture slightly.

→ How should I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I add other ingredients to these bagels?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding ingredients like olives, cheese, or spices.

→ Is it necessary to boil the bagels?

Boiling helps achieve that traditional bagel texture. Skipping this step might result in a denser bagel.