Save Easy Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels are a viral, high-protein breakfast sensation. These chewy, savory flat bagels—or flagels—are packed with fresh spinach and melted mozzarella, delivering an impressive 15g of protein per serving. Quick and fuss-free, they bake up to a perfect golden brown without the need for traditional boiling, making them the ultimate choice for a nutritious breakfast, brunch, or snack.
Save Creating these flagels at home is surprisingly simple. By blending the cottage cheese until smooth, you create a creamy base that binds the flour and spinach into a cohesive, elastic dough. The addition of mozzarella throughout the dough ensures that every bite is bursting with savory flavor and a hint of melted goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (210g) cottage cheese (small curd or whipped for easier blending)
- 1/2 cup (56g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons (125g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 oz baby spinach, finely chopped (almost minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- Place the cottage cheese in a mini food processor and blend until completely smooth and creamy.
- Step 3
- In a large bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, flour, baking powder, salt, olive oil, minced spinach, and shredded mozzarella. Mix with a spoon until combined, then knead by hand into a cohesive dough ball. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Step 4
- Shape the dough into a 6-inch log. Cut into 6 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a 3–4 inch wide circle and poke a hole through the center with your finger to form a flagel shape.
- Step 5
- Arrange the flagels on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Brush the tops generously with the beaten egg.
- Step 6
- Bake for 22–25 minutes, until golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Step 7
- Let cool on a wire rack before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best texture, ensure your cottage cheese is blended until no lumps remain. When adding the flour, do it gradually; if the environment is humid, you might need an extra tablespoon to keep the dough from sticking to your hands. Finely mincing the spinach ensures it is distributed evenly throughout each flagel.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily swap the baby spinach for finely chopped kale or arugula if you prefer a sharper flavor profile. To add more crunch and aromatics, consider topping your flagels with everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds immediately after applying the egg wash.
Serviervorschläge
These flagels are best served warm. Slice them in half and spread with cream cheese, or create a savory breakfast sandwich with smoked salmon and red onion. They also make a fantastic accompaniment to a bowl of hot soup or as a high-protein afternoon snack.
Save With 180 calories and 15g of protein per serving, these Easy Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels are a nutritious and delicious way to start your day. Enjoy the perfect balance of chewy dough, melted cheese, and fresh greens in every bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → What makes these flat bagels chewy?
The combination of cottage cheese and mozzarella creates a moist, elastic dough that results in a chewy texture after baking.
- → Can I substitute spinach with other greens?
Yes, kale or arugula can be used as alternatives to spinach to vary the flavor and nutrient profile.
- → Why are these bagels baked without boiling first?
Omitting the boiling step simplifies preparation while still producing golden, firm bagels with a tender inside.
- → How should I shape the dough for these bagels?
Shape the dough into a log, cut into pieces, flatten each piece into a circle, then poke a hole through the center to form the characteristic shape.
- → What toppings work well with these cheesy spinach bagels?
Sprinkling everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds on top before baking adds extra flavor and texture.
- → Are these bagels suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, they include dairy and eggs but no meat, fitting vegetarian dietary preferences.