1. Prepare the baking tray

Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

This step is done right in front of the children with a short explanation of what we are baking and why the tray needs preparation. It helps kids understand the flow of the recipe and feel included from the very beginning.

2. Grate the cheese

Children can grate cheese using a safe rotary grater or a regular grater with supervision.

This step is fun, sensory, and engaging — kids love watching the cheese turn into soft little pieces.

3. Mix the cottage cheese base

In a large bowl, children combine:

• cottage cheese
• sugar
• salt
• milk
• vegetable oil
• 1 egg

Blend with an immersion blender until smooth (adult step), while children observe and help add ingredients.

4. Add the grated cheese

Kids sprinkle the shredded cheese into the mixture and stir gently with a spoon.

5. Prepare the dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift flour together with baking powder.

Let each child take a turn — sifting feels like soft flour rain and builds hand coordination.

Gradually add the dry mixture to the cottage cheese mixture.

Mix with a spoon, then knead into a soft, smooth dough.

6. Roll and cut the bagels

Lightly dust the table with flour.

Roll the dough out to about 7 mm thickness.

Use round cutters to cut out circles.

Use a smaller cutter to create the bagel hole.

✨ This step is always a favorite — the circles look like little suns.

Transfer the shapes to the prepared baking tray.

7. Brush and sprinkle

Crack the second egg into a small bowl and whisk with a fork.

Kids brush each bagel lightly with egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.

This step builds precision, patience, and gentle hand control.

8. Bake

Bake at 355°F (180°C) for 20–25 minutes, until golden and slightly puffed.

Let cool before serving.