Sweet Potato Cottage Cheese Bagels

Name: Sweet Potato Cottage Cheese Bagels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8.0
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked sweet potato, mashed; 1 cup cottage cheese; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 egg for egg wash (optional)

Highlighted under: Artisanal Baking Recipes

I absolutely love experimenting with flavors in my bagels, and these Sweet Potato Cottage Cheese Bagels are a delightful example of that passion. The sweet potato adds a natural sweetness and beautiful color, while the cottage cheese keeps them fluffy and rich. Ready in just about an hour, these bagels are perfect for a nutritious breakfast or a tasty snack. With a simple preparation method and only a handful of ingredients, I can't wait for you to enjoy this delicious twist on a classic!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-25T21:06:27.802Z

When I first decided to make Sweet Potato Cottage Cheese Bagels, I was curious about how the flavors would meld. Combining sweet potato and cottage cheese not only enhances the taste but also adds moisture to the dough. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the sweetness from the sweet potato complemented the mild tang of the cottage cheese perfectly.

One detail that made a huge difference in my bagel-making journey was boiling them before baking. This step ensures that the bagels develop that classic chewy texture and helps them achieve that beautiful golden brown color. I can assure you, it’s well worth the extra effort!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect blend of sweetness and creaminess
Nutritious ingredients that make you feel good
Ideal for both breakfast and snacking

      

The Role of Sweet Potato

Sweet potato isn't just a source of natural sweetness in this bagel recipe; it also contributes valuable nutrients. Rich in beta-carotene, vitamins A and C, incorporating sweet potato gives your bagels a health boost. The vibrant orange color adds not only visual appeal but also indicates the presence of antioxidants that help support overall health.

One important aspect to note is the texture that sweet potato provides. When cooked and mashed, it retains moisture, which contributes to the bagels' fluffiness. Just ensure the sweet potato is thoroughly cooked before mashing for a smooth consistency, avoiding any lumps that can affect the bagel structure.

Mastering the Bagel Shape

Shaping the bagels is a crucial step that influences their final texture and appearance. When rolling the dough into balls, be gentle to avoid overworking it, which can lead to tougher bagels. After creating the hole, aim for about a 1-1.5 inch diameter—this allows room for the dough to rise during baking without sealing up completely.

If you find the dough sticking to your fingers while shaping, lightly flour your hands to prevent it from adhering. It’s also a good idea to ensure an evenly stretched hole—this promotes even cooking and prevents narrow spots that may dry out or burn during baking.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Sweet Potato Cottage Cheese Bagels can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container. For longer shelf life, consider freezing them after cooling completely. Place individual bagels in freezer-safe bags, keeping them fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the toaster for a quick warm-up.

For serving, these bagels are versatile. Enjoy them plain, or top them with cream cheese, avocado, or smoked salmon for a hearty breakfast. You can even slice them and use them as the foundation for an inventive bagel sandwich. Try adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning before baking for an added layer of flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful bagel experience.

Bagel Ingredients

1 cup cooked sweet potato, mashed
1 cup cottage cheese
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 egg for egg wash (optional)

Make sure everything is fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect bagels.

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix together the mashed sweet potato and cottage cheese until smooth. Stir in flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until a dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center using your finger to form your bagels. Gently stretch the hole to ensure an even shape.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop the bagels in, cooking for 2 minutes on each side. This step will give them their characteristic chewy texture.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the boiled bagels onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, brush with egg wash for a shiny finish.

Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the bagels cool for a few minutes before enjoying!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, consider sprinkling sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need a dairy-free option, consider substituting cottage cheese with silken tofu blended until smooth. This will maintain the creaminess while keeping the recipe plant-based. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, adjusting the liquid slightly since these blends can vary in absorbency.

Sugar can also be swapped for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. If using liquid sweeteners, reduce the amount of cottage cheese slightly to maintain the dough's consistency.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your bagels do not rise as expected, check the freshness of your baking powder. If it’s expired, it won’t provide the lift needed during boiling and baking. In case the dough is too sticky to handle, adding a little extra flour while mixing can help without compromising the bagel's moisture.

For a chewier texture, ensure you're boiling the bagels for the recommended time. If undercooked, they may turn out doughy in the center. Boiling for 2 minutes on each side helps create that signature chewy crust.

Innovative Variations

Experimenting with herbs and spices could elevate the flavor profile of these bagels. Consider adding herbs like rosemary or dill directly into the dough. This inclusion can create a savory twist perfect for pairing with cream cheese or hummus.

You might also consider incorporating other mix-ins like dried cranberries or nuts to introduce additional textures and flavors. These ingredients can be folded into the dough during the mixing stage to ensure even distribution.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, whole wheat flour can be substituted, but the texture may be denser.

→ How should I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I add toppings to these bagels?

Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings like seeds, cheese, or herbs for additional flavor.

→ What is the best way to reheat these bagels?

Toast them in a toaster or oven for a few minutes to revive their texture.