Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Why make this recipe

Air Fryer Protein Bagels are a fantastic twist on a classic breakfast favorite. They are not only easy to make but also packed with protein, making them a great choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet. Using an air fryer gives these bagels a crispy exterior while keeping them light and fluffy on the inside. Plus, they can be customized with your favorite toppings, making them a delicious option for breakfast or a snack any time of the day.

How to make Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• Pinch of salt – optional
• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons cottage cheese – 2% or 4%
• 1 egg – optional
• Toppings: everything seasoning, poppy seeds, sesame seeds

Directions:

1. Add the flour to a medium bowl and combine it with the baking powder. Add a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Preheat the air fryer to 300°F. Once the air fryer is 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. You may need to do this in batches if you have a smaller air fryer. Cook the bagels for 15-17 minutes until golden. Check them at around 10 minutes and continue cooking as needed since air fryers vary.
7. 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.

How to serve Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Air Fryer Protein Bagels can be enjoyed plain or topped with your favorite spreads. Try cream cheese, avocado, or nut butter for a nutritious breakfast. They also make great sandwiches or toasts for lunch!

How to store Air Fryer Protein Bagels

To keep your bagels fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to a month. Simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the toaster before serving.

Tips to make Air Fryer Protein Bagels

• If you want a chewier texture, you can add a small amount of vital wheat gluten to the dough.
• Don’t skip the toppings! They add flavor and make the bagels look more appetizing.
• Experiment with different flavors by adding herbs or spices to the dough.

Variation

Try using flavored cottage cheese for unique tastes, like garlic or chive. You can also mix in cheese or herbs directly into the dough for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but you may need to adjust the liquid slightly as it absorbs more moisture.

Can I make these bagels without the egg?
Absolutely! The egg wash is optional, but it helps with browning. You can simply skip that step if you prefer.

How can I make these bagels gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend has a binding agent, like xanthan gum, for the right texture.

Air Fryer Protein Bagels

These Air Fryer Protein Bagels are a healthy twist on a classic breakfast favorite, offering a crispy exterior and fluffy inside, perfect for customization with your favorite toppings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 17 minutes mins

Total Time 32 minutes mins

Servings: 4 bagels

Course: Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Bagel Dough Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• a pinch salt (optional)
• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons cottage cheese (2% or 4%)
• 1 egg (optional) for egg wash

Toppings

• everything seasoning
• poppy seeds
• sesame seeds

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder. If desired, add a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
2. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the cottage cheese. Mix the dough until it begins to form a chunky texture using a fork or small rubber spatula.
3. Turn the dough onto a well-floured surface and knead it for 1-2 minutes until it forms a semi-smooth ball. Add more flour if the dough is sticky.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal sections. Roll each section into a 6-7 inch log that is about 3/4 inch thick, connecting the ends to form bagels.
5. In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a splash of water or milk, then brush it lightly on each bagel. Add toppings as desired.

Cooking

1. Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Spray or line the basket with cooking spray or parchment paper.
2. Place the bagels in a single layer in the air fryer basket (cook in batches if necessary) and cook for 15-17 minutes until golden brown, checking around 10 minutes.
3. Once cooked, let the bagels cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Store prepared bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. Reheat in the toaster when serving. Consider adding vital wheat gluten for a chewier texture.