If you’ve ever wanted a snack that’s fluffy, savory, and packed with wholesome goodness, these Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels are your new best friend. Imagine a soft, cheesy dough infused with fresh, vibrant spinach, baked to golden perfection, and finished with a shiny egg wash. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack that satisfies without weighing you down. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked!

Recipe Origin:

Flagels are a fun twist on bagels and savory scones, blending cottage cheese and fresh spinach into a light, airy dough. This version brings healthy ingredients to the forefront without compromising on flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:

Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or spatula
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Knife or bench scraper for shaping
Small bowl for egg wash

Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels

Author: Andy
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 flagels 1x
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels are a fun, healthier twist on traditional bagels. These flat bagel-style breads are made with protein-packed cottage cheese, fresh spinach, and mozzarella for a savory, cheesy flavor. Perfect for breakfast sandwiches, snacking, or as a wholesome side.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup + 2 tablespoons flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 ounces baby spinach, micro chopped
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Egg Wash: 1 egg, lightly beaten

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, flour, baking powder, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough begins to form.
Fold in the chopped spinach and shredded mozzarella until evenly distributed.
Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a flattened round, about 1/2-inch thick, resembling a flagel (flat bagel).
Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with the egg wash.
Bake for 18–20 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For a crunchier texture, sprinkle sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top before baking.
These flagels taste great sliced and toasted with cream cheese or hummus.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
You can substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 flagel
Calories: 210
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: spinach cottage cheese bread, flagel recipe, healthy bagel alternative, high protein bread, homemade flat bagel

Why You’ll Love Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels

This recipe isn’t just about flavor—it’s about convenience and wholesome ingredients. Here’s why it’s a winner:

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy mornings or last-minute snacks.

Wholesome and Nutritious: Packed with protein from cottage cheese and mozzarella, plus the goodness of fresh spinach.

Crowd-Pleasing: Soft, cheesy, and flavorful—kids and adults alike will love them.

Versatile: Serve plain, with a dip, or slice and fill with your favorite sandwich ingredients.

Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or different cheeses to suit your taste.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results:

Use room-temperature cottage cheese: This ensures smooth mixing and a light dough.
Micro-chop the spinach: Prevents large leafy chunks and ensures even distribution.
Don’t overmix the dough: Gentle folding keeps the flagels fluffy.
Egg wash: Brushing before baking gives a beautiful golden shine.

Ingredients in Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels

Here’s why these little savory treats are so irresistible:

Cottage Cheese: Provides moisture, protein, and a subtle tanginess that makes the dough tender.

Flour: Gives structure to the dough while keeping the texture light.

Baking Powder: Helps the flagels rise for a soft, airy bite.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough and balances the cheese.

Olive Oil: Adds a hint of richness and prevents sticking.

Baby Spinach: Micro-chopped for freshness, color, and subtle earthy flavor.

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully throughout the dough, adding gooey, cheesy goodness.

Egg Wash: Gives the baked flagels a glossy, golden finish that looks as good as they taste.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s turn these ingredients into warm, cheesy flagels:

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to the recommended temperature and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Preheating ensures even baking.

Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, flour, baking powder, salt, and olive oil. Fold in the micro-chopped spinach and shredded mozzarella. Mix gently until just combined.

Shape the Flagels: Divide the dough into small portions and shape into oblong or oval flagels. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.

Apply Egg Wash: Brush each flagel lightly with the beaten egg. This gives them that irresistible golden shine.

Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown on top, tender inside, and slightly puffed.

Cool and Serve: Let the flagels cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy warm, plain, or with your favorite dip or spread.

How to Serve Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels

As a Snack: Perfect on their own or with a savory dip like hummus or tzatziki.

For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve with eggs, avocado, or smoked salmon.

As a Sandwich Base: Slice open and fill with deli meats, cheese, or roasted vegetables.

With Soup or Salad: A light and cheesy addition to a comforting bowl of soup or a fresh salad.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Store baked flagels in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days.
Reheat gently in the oven or toaster before serving for a fresh-baked taste.

Variations to Try:

Add fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives for extra flavor.
Swap mozzarella for cheddar, feta, or a blend of cheeses.
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: Micro-chop spinach in advance to save time.
Boost Flavor: Sprinkle a little garlic powder or paprika into the dough.
Serving Ideas: Serve warm for best texture; they are slightly softer at room temperature.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen spinach?
A1: Yes, but thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding to the dough.

Q2: Can I make these gluten-free?
A2: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days.

Q4: Can I freeze these flagels?
A4: Yes! Freeze after baking in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat before serving.

Q5: Can I make smaller or larger flagels?
A5: Absolutely! Adjust baking time accordingly.

Q6: Can I add other vegetables?
A6: Yes! Finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or herbs work beautifully.

Q7: Can I make them vegan?
A7: Substitute cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative and use vegan cheese.

Q8: Do I have to use egg wash?
A8: No, but it gives a glossy golden finish that looks professional and appealing.

Q9: Can I make these ahead and bake later?
A9: Yes, shape them and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Q10: Can I use other cheeses instead of mozzarella?
A10: Absolutely! Cheddar, Swiss, or feta will all add delicious flavor.

Conclusion

Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels are a versatile, savory treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime snack cravings hit. They’re soft, cheesy, and packed with wholesome ingredients that make each bite satisfying and comforting. Whether you serve them plain, with dips, or as a sandwich base, these flagels are sure to impress your family or guests. Simple to make, quick to bake, and impossible to resist—they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen.