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If you’re craving a delightful, savory treat that’s as wholesome as it is delicious, then the Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels Recipe is about to become your new kitchen favorite. These little golden delights bring together the creamy tang of cottage cheese, the fresh vibrancy of spinach, and the melty goodness of mozzarella in a soft, chewy dough that bakes up beautifully. Whether it’s for a cozy brunch, a snack, or an impressive addition to your appetizer spread, this recipe is comfort food redefined in the best way possible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to the success of the Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels Recipe. Each element has a vital role, from the fluffiness that baking powder delivers to the rich flavor packed by fresh spinach and cheeses.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: Provides a creamy base that keeps the dough moist and tender.
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, giving it structure and chewiness.
- 3 teaspoons baking powder: The secret behind the light, fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming them.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds moisture and a subtle richness to the dough.
- 2 ounces baby spinach, finely chopped: Brings a fresh, vibrant green color and a burst of natural, mild flavor.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for a gooey, savory surprise inside each flagel.
- 1 egg, lightly beaten: Used as a wash to give the baked flagels a gorgeous golden sheen.
How to Make Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to a steady 375°F, which creates the perfect environment for the flagels to bake evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This simple prep sets the stage for baking success.
Step 2: Blend the Cottage Cheese
The key to smooth, tender dough is blending your cottage cheese. Use a mini food processor or blender to pulse the cottage cheese until velvety smooth. This step ensures there are no lumps and helps the cheese incorporate seamlessly into the dough.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together your blended cottage cheese with the flour, baking powder, salt, olive oil, finely chopped spinach, and shredded mozzarella. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything comes together into a uniform dough with lovely bursts of green and cheese throughout.
Step 4: Shape Your Flagels
Roll the dough into a log shape, then divide it into six equal pieces. Form each piece into a circle, creating a hole in the center just like a traditional bagel. This shape not only looks impressive but also helps the flagels bake evenly with a satisfying chew.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake
Place your shaped dough circles onto the prepared baking sheet, then brush the tops with the beaten egg. This adds a glossy, golden finish when baked. Pop them into the oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes, until your flagels are puffed and beautifully golden brown on top.
How to Serve Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels Recipe, try sprinkling freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of smoked paprika on top after baking. For a fresh touch, a little chopped chive or parsley adds bright color and a hint of herbaceous flavor that complements the spinach perfectly.
Side Dishes
These flagels pair wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of tomato basil soup for dipping. If you’re looking for a breakfast or brunch idea, serve alongside creamy scrambled eggs or a dollop of Greek yogurt with herbs.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not slice these flagels in half and fill them with your favorite sandwich ingredients? A layer of smoked salmon and cream cheese or turkey with avocado can turn them into mini handheld delights. Alternatively, use them as a base for bruschetta toppings like diced tomato, basil, and mozzarella for a party-ready snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (though they rarely last long), store them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the flagels soft but fresh enough to enjoy the next day.
Freezing
For longer storage, Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels Recipe can be frozen after baking. Once completely cooled, wrap each flagel individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months without losing their delightful texture.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated flagels by wrapping them in foil and warming them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave them covered with a damp paper towel for about 20 seconds to bring back some softness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out all the excess moisture from the frozen spinach before adding it to the dough to avoid sogginess.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that’s suitable for baking. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or similar to help bind the dough properly.
Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?
Definitely! Fresh herbs like dill or parsley, or spices such as garlic powder, can add an extra layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spinach and cheese.
How do I know when the flagels are fully baked?
They should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted into the dough should come out clean when fully cooked.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
Yes! Doubling the ingredients works well, just be sure to mix thoroughly and adjust baking times slightly if your flagels are larger or placed closer together on the baking sheet.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels Recipe enough if you want a snack or meal that’s both nourishing and packed with flavor. They’re surprisingly quick to whip up, wonderfully versatile, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Give this recipe a try and watch how quickly they disappear from your table—trust me, you’ll want them on your regular rotation!
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Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Spinach Cottage Cheese Flagels are soft, savory bread rings filled with nutritious spinach and creamy cottage cheese, perfectly topped with melted mozzarella. Easy to make and bake, they offer a delicious, protein-packed snack or breakfast option with a delightful golden crust.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients & Fillings
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 ounces baby spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Blend cottage cheese: Using a mini food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth to create a creamy base for the dough.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese with flour, baking powder, salt, olive oil, finely chopped spinach, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated into a dough.
- Shape dough: Form the dough into a log on a flat surface, then divide it into six equal pieces. Shape each piece into a circle with a hole in the center, resembling a bagel shape.
- Prepare for baking: Place the shaped flagels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops generously with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the flagels turn golden brown and are cooked through.
Notes
- Ensure the cottage cheese is well blended to avoid lumps in the dough.
- You can substitute baby spinach with frozen spinach that has been thawed and thoroughly drained.
- For a vegan variation, replace cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative and egg wash with non-dairy milk or oil.
- Allow flagels to cool slightly before serving to enhance flavor and texture.
- These flagels can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
