Ingredients
— The 2 Ingredients —
1 cup (approx. 225g) cottage cheese (full-fat or 2% works best)
1 cup (approx. 120-130g) self-rising flour (see notes for homemade version)
— Optional Add-Ins —
1 large egg (for egg wash to make it shiny)
Everything Bagel Seasoning, sesame seeds, or flaky salt (for topping)
1 teaspoon garlic powder or dried herbs (mix into dough for savory bread)
Instructions
1. **Preheat:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a small loaf pan (8×4 inch) or a baking sheet with parchment paper. If making rolls, grease the sheet lightly.
2. **Blend Cheese:** Place the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor. Pulse until it is completely smooth and creamy, removing all the curds. This is crucial for a smooth dough texture.
3. **Mix Dough:** In a medium bowl, combine the smooth cottage cheese and the self-rising flour. Stir with a spatula until a shaggy dough forms. It will be sticky!
4. **Shape:** Dust your hands and a clean surface generously with flour. Turn the dough out and gently fold it over itself 4–5 times until it comes together into a ball. **Do not over-knead.** Shape it into a small loaf or divide it into 4–6 dinner rolls.
5. **Top (Optional):** Place the loaf or rolls onto the prepared pan. Brush the top with a beaten egg (or a little milk) and sprinkle generously with Everything Bagel Seasoning or salt.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 25–30 minutes. The bread should be puffed, golden brown on top, and sound hollow when tapped lightly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. **Cool:** Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. The texture improves as it cools and sets.
Notes
No Self-Rising Flour? Make your own: Whisk 1 cup All-Purpose Flour + 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder + ¼ teaspoon salt.
Sticky Dough Warning: This dough is naturally stickier than traditional bread dough. Keep extra flour on hand for dusting your palms, but try not to incorporate too much extra flour or the bread will become dense.
Dietary Swaps: You can use a 1:1 Gluten-Free Self-Rising flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Toast slices before eating to bring back the crisp exterior.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Bread
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian