1. Home
  2. Recipes
  3. Easy Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Featured in Mindful Cooking for Vibrant Living.

These Air Fryer Protein Bagels transform simple ingredients into delicious, protein-rich breakfast or lunch options. Using just cottage cheese, flour, and baking powder, these bagels pack 10 grams of protein each while staying light and fluffy. The air fryer creates a perfectly golden exterior in just 15-17 minutes, though they can also be baked in a conventional oven. Customizable with various toppings and adaptable for gluten-free diets, these bagels offer a quick, healthy alternative to store-bought versions. They store well in the refrigerator and can be frozen for later use.
Rana
Updated on Mon, 10 Feb 2025 01:06:23 GMT
Print Recipe Pin Recipe Send Recipe Jump To Recipe
Air Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe Pin it
Air Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe | flavorsenthusiasts.com

Transform your breakfast routine with these incredibly easy protein-packed bagels made right in your air fryer. Each golden-brown ring delivers the perfect chewy texture and impressive 10 grams of protein, thanks to the magic of cottage cheese. The simple combination of just three ingredients creates bagels that rival your favorite bakery while supporting your nutrition goals.

When I first experimented with this recipe, my family couldn't believe these weren't traditional yeast bagels. The cottage cheese creates those coveted air pockets that make bagels irresistibly chewy.

Essential Bagel Elements

  • Cottage cheese: Choose 4% milkfat for best texture and results
  • All-purpose flour: Creates perfect chewiness, or use gluten-free blend
  • Baking powder: Fresh powder ensures proper rise
  • Optional egg wash: Creates golden crust and helps toppings stick
  • Everything seasoning: Optional but adds authentic bagel flavor
  • Sea salt: Enhances all flavors beautifully
  • Additional toppings: Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or cheese
Air Fryer Protein Bagels Pin it
Air Fryer Protein Bagels | flavorsenthusiasts.com

Creating Bagel Magic

Dough Formation
Mix flour and baking powder thoroughly before adding cottage cheese.
Perfect Kneading
Work dough until smooth and elastic for ideal texture.
Shape Creation
Roll into ropes and form perfect circles with pinched seams.
Surface Preparation
Brush with egg wash for golden, glossy finish.
Topping Application
Add seasonings before baking for best adhesion.
Temperature Control
Maintain consistent air fryer temperature throughout cooking.
Golden Finish
Watch carefully for perfect golden-brown color.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Serve these protein-rich bagels in endless delicious ways. Create breakfast sandwiches with scrambled eggs and turkey bacon for a protein-packed start. Spread with cottage cheese and sliced tomatoes for a light lunch. For a quick dinner, transform them into mini pizzas with marinara and melted cheese. In our home, we love toasting them and topping with mashed avocado and everything seasoning.

Creative Bagel Twists

Transform these bagels with different flavors while maintaining their protein content. Add herbs like rosemary and garlic to the dough for savory variation. Create cinnamon raisin protein bagels by incorporating spices and dried fruit. My family's favorite version includes shredded cheese worked into the dough before shaping.

Storage Success

Keep your bagels fresh by storing them properly. Place cooled bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, slice and freeze in freezer bags for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, toast directly from frozen or thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in the air fryer for two minutes to restore their perfect texture.

Meal Prep Magic

Make these bagels part of your weekly meal prep routine. Double the recipe and freeze half for later use. Pre-slice before freezing for quick toasting. Create breakfast sandwich kits by pairing with pre-cooked eggs and cheese. Package individual portions with different toppings for grab-and-go options.

The Best Air Fryer Protein Bagels Pin it
The Best Air Fryer Protein Bagels | flavorsenthusiasts.com

Healthy Adaptations

Customize these bagels for different dietary needs while maintaining their protein content. Make them gluten-free using Cup4Cup flour blend. Create a lower-carb version using almond flour mix. The versatile base recipe welcomes modifications while keeping its satisfying texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Let dough rest 5 minutes if it feels too sticky to work with. Use wet hands when shaping to prevent sticking. Cool completely before slicing for cleanest results.

After perfecting these bagels through countless test batches, I've discovered they're more than just a protein-rich breakfast - they're a versatile foundation for countless meals. Whether enjoyed as a quick breakfast or transformed into mini pizzas for dinner, these air fryer bagels never fail to satisfy cravings while supporting nutrition goals. The combination of chewy texture and protein-packed ingredients creates something truly special that makes any meal more memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use cup-for-cup gluten-free flour as a direct replacement for all-purpose flour.
→ How do I store these bagels?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
→ Can I make these without an air fryer?
Yes, bake them in a regular oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.
→ Why are my bagels sticky?
If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour while kneading until it becomes manageable.
→ Is the egg wash necessary?
The egg wash is optional but helps achieve a golden brown color and helps toppings stick better.

Easy Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Quick and easy protein-packed bagels made with cottage cheese and flour, air fried to golden perfection in just 25 minutes.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
25 Minutes
By: Rana

Category: Wellness Kitchen

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings (4 bagels)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Base

01 1 cup all-purpose flour
02 2 teaspoons baking powder
03 Pinch of salt (optional)
04 1 cup + 2 tablespoons cottage cheese (2% or 4%)
05 1 egg (optional)

→ Optional Toppings

06 Everything seasoning
07 Poppy seeds
08 Sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 01

Add the flour to a medium bowl and combine it with the baking powder. Add a pinch of salt for extra flavor.

Step 02

Make a well in the center of the flour and add the cottage cheese. Mix the dough using a fork or small rubber spatula until it begins to form a chunky dough. You can also mix the dough in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.

Step 03

Turn the bagel dough onto a well-floured surface and knead it with your hands for 1-2 minutes until it forms a semi-smooth ball of dough. If the dough becomes sticky add a sprinkle of flour or lightly coat your hands in flour as you knead it. This can also be done in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.

Step 04

Divide the bagel dough into 4 equal sections. Roll each section of dough into a 6-7 inch log that is about 3/4 inch thick, then connect the ends of the dough to form the bagel. Continue until you have formed all 4 bagels.

Step 05

Crack and whisk the egg in a small bowl and add a splash of water or milk. Brush the egg lightly all over each bagel using a rubber brush or pastry brush. Add toppings if desired.

Step 06

Preheat the air fryer to 300°F. Once ready, spray or line the air fryer basket with cooking spray or parchment paper. Place the bagels in an even layer into the air fryer. Cook for 15-17 minutes until golden. Check them at around 10 minutes and continue cooking as needed since air fryers vary.

Step 07

Once the bagels are done (they should be golden brown and light and fluffy), remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for at least 15 minutes before you slice and serve them.

Notes

  1. Can use 2% or 4% cottage cheese
  2. Works with all-purpose, whole wheat, or gluten-free flour
  3. Store in refrigerator up to 5 days
  4. Can be frozen for up to 3 months
  5. Can be baked in oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes

Tools You'll Need

  • Air fryer
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Pastry brush
  • Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy
  • Contains eggs (if using egg wash)
  • Contains gluten (unless using gluten-free flour)