1. **Preheat:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. **Blend Cheese (Crucial Step):** Place the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor. Blend on high until completely smooth and creamy. There should be no curds left (this ensures a smooth dough texture).

3. **Mix Dough:** In a medium mixing bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese and the self-rising flour. Stir with a spatula until combined. The dough will be sticky and shaggy.

4. **Knead:** Turn the dough out onto a generously floured surface. Dust your hands with flour and knead the dough 10–15 times until it comes together into a smooth-ish ball. If it is too sticky to handle, add a sprinkle more flour.

5. **Shape:** Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a thick rope (about 7 inches long) and pinch the ends together to form a bagel shape. Place on the prepared baking sheet.

6. **Top:** Brush the tops and sides of the bagels with the beaten egg. This gives them a shiny, golden-brown crust. Sprinkle generously with Everything Bagel Seasoning.

7. **Bake:** Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the bagels are puffed and golden brown on top. Let them cool on the pan for 10 minutes before slicing.