Add the cottage cheese to a blender along with 1-2 tablespoons of water. Blend until completely smooth—this is important because lumps will prevent the dough from coming together properly. You want a consistency similar to yogurt or sour cream. This wet base is what will hydrate the self-rising flour to create the dough.

In a large bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese mixture from Step 1 with the self-rising flour and fine sea salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then transfer to a floured work surface and knead for 2-3 minutes until smooth and cohesive. I find that self-rising flour doughs are naturally softer than regular doughs, so don't overwork it—just knead until it holds together nicely. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.

Roll each piece of dough into a ball, then flatten into a 3-inch disk about 1/4-inch thick. Using a knife or small round cutter, cut a 1-inch hole in the center of each disk to create the bagel shape. Set the shaped bagels aside on a lightly floured surface while you prepare the water for boiling.

Bring a pot of water to a boil. Working in batches if needed, gently place the bagels into the boiling water and cook for 1 minute total, flipping halfway through (about 30 seconds per side). This brief boil creates that signature chewy bagel exterior. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the boiled bagels to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool slightly.

While the bagels are still slightly damp from boiling, sprinkle them generously with your choice of toppings—poppy seeds, sesame seeds, and everything bagel seasoning all work beautifully. I love using a combination of poppy and sesame seeds for texture and flavor, plus the everything seasoning for depth. Arrange the topped bagels in your air fryer basket in a single layer and cook at 350°F for 15-17 minutes, flipping halfway through. The bagels should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Transfer the cooked bagels to a cooling rack and let them rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the interior to set properly and makes slicing cleaner without the bagels falling apart. Once cooled, slice horizontally and serve with your favorite toppings like cream cheese, butter, or smoked salmon.