Simple Protein Bagels

you’ve ever wished for a warm, chewy bagel that’s both quick to make and packed with protein, you’re in the right place! These homemade high-protein bagels are ready in under 30 minutes — with no yeast, no long proofing time, and no boiling water required. Whether you want a classic Greek yogurt bagel or a supercharged protein version with an extra boost of powder, this recipe guarantees delicious, golden bagels perfect for breakfast, lunch, or post-workout fuel.

These bagels are soft inside, slightly crisp outside, and pair beautifully with everything from cream cheese and smoked salmon to peanut butter or avocado. Best of all, you don’t need to be an expert baker — just mix, shape, and air fry.

Let’s dive into this foolproof guide for making healthy, fluffy, protein-rich bagels that rival your favorite bakery.

🥯 Why You’ll Love These Protein Bagels

• Ready in under 30 minutes – No kneading for hours or rising time needed.

• High in protein – Get up to 19 grams of protein per bagel with the added protein powder version.

• Low in fat and made without oil – A lighter, balanced alternative to traditional bagels.

• Customizable flavors – Add your favorite seasonings like Everything Bagel, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even a cinnamon-sugar twist.

• Simple ingredients – You probably already have everything in your kitchen!

• Air fryer perfection – Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy inside every time.

 

⚖️ Two Delicious Versions to Choose From

You can make these bagels with or without protein powder — both taste fantastic. The only difference is the protein content and slightly denser texture in the protein-packed version.

💪 Extra Protein Version (19g protein per bagel)

This version includes a scoop of protein powder to help you reach your daily protein goals, especially great for gym lovers or anyone looking for a healthy post-workout snack.

Ingredients:

• 150g (1¼ cups) all-purpose flour (or self-rising flour)

• 30g (1 scoop) unflavored protein powder (PEScience Multipurpose Protein Powder or similar)

• 180g (⅔ cup) plain nonfat Greek yogurt

• 2 tsp baking powder (omit if using self-rising flour)

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• Seasoning of choice (Everything Bagel, sesame seeds, etc.)

🌾 Original Greek Yogurt Version (12g protein per bagel)

The simpler version — no protein powder needed! It still offers a great protein boost thanks to the Greek yogurt.

Ingredients:

• 180g (1½ cups) all-purpose flour (or self-rising flour)

• 180g (⅔ cup) plain nonfat Greek yogurt

• 2 tsp baking powder (omit if using self-rising flour)

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• Seasoning of choice

🧑‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and protein powder (if using). Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. This helps the bagels rise properly and prevents clumping when you add the yogurt.

Tip: If you’re using self-rising flour, skip the baking powder entirely since it already includes leavening agents.

Step 2: Add the Greek Yogurt

Add plain nonfat Greek yogurt to your dry ingredients. Using a silicone spatula, start mixing until the dough begins to come together. When it becomes too thick to stir, use your hands to gently knead and form it into a soft dough ball right in the bowl.

If the dough feels sticky, dust your hands or the dough lightly with flour — but don’t overdo it. You want a soft, slightly tacky texture for fluffy bagels.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

Place the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it into three equal portions. You can weigh the dough and divide by three for perfectly even bagels, or just eyeball it.

Roll each piece into a smooth ball, then use your palms to roll it into a rope about 7–8 inches long. Connect the ends of the rope to form a circle and pinch them together to seal.

Pro Tip: The bagels will puff up during cooking, so make the center hole slightly larger than you think you need.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes. This quick preheating step ensures the bagels start cooking immediately and get a nice golden crust.

Step 5: Egg Wash and Seasoning

Place the bagels into the preheated air fryer basket. Brush the tops with a light coating of beaten egg — this not only gives the bagels their signature glossy finish but also helps your toppings stick beautifully.

Now, sprinkle your favorite seasoning on top. You can go classic with Everything Bagel Seasoning, or try sesame seeds, garlic flakes, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon and monk fruit sweetener for a sweet version.

Step 6: Air Fry to Perfection

Air fry your bagels at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, flipping them after 8 minutes so the bottoms brown evenly during the last 2 minutes.

They should come out puffed, golden, and beautifully crusted.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Once done, remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool on a rack for about 10–15 minutes. This step is crucial — the interior continues to set as it cools, giving you that classic chewy texture when sliced.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

These protein bagels are perfect as-is, but they’re also versatile! Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy them:

• Breakfast Sandwich: Add eggs, turkey bacon, and cheese for a high-protein start to your day.

• Sweet Treat: Spread almond butter or sugar-free jam for a healthier sweet option.

• Classic Bagel & Lox: Top with cream cheese, smoked salmon, and capers.

• Pizza Bagel: Slice, toast, and add marinara and cheese for a quick lunch.

🧠 Tips for Success

1. Use thick Greek yogurt – Thin yogurt makes the dough sticky. Brands like Fage or Chobani are great choices.

2. Don’t skip the cooling step – Bagels need time to firm up for perfect slicing.

3. Adjust protein powder as needed – Not all protein powders absorb liquid the same way. If your dough feels dry, add a teaspoon of yogurt.

4. Avoid over-kneading – Too much kneading can make the bagels dense instead of fluffy.

5. Try self-rising flour – It simplifies the recipe by eliminating baking powder.

---

🌟 Storage and Freezing

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Refrigerate: Keeps fresh for up to 5 days.

• Freeze: Once cooled, wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Toast directly from frozen when ready to enjoy.

💡 Flavor Variations

• Cheddar Jalapeño: Add shredded cheese and sliced jalapeños before air frying.

• Cinnamon Raisin: Stir in a little cinnamon and a few raisins into the dough.

• Garlic Parmesan: Sprinkle garlic powder and Parmesan cheese before baking.

• Blueberry Bagels: Fold in a few fresh or dried blueberries for a fruity twist.

❓Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
Yes! You can bake them at 375°F (190°C) in a preheated oven for about 20–22 minutes until golden.

Q2: Which protein powder works best?
Unflavored or mild-tasting whey/casein blends are ideal. Avoid pure whey isolate as it may make the texture rubbery.

Q3: Can I make them dairy-free?
You can use a thick dairy-free yogurt, such as coconut or almond yogurt, but note the texture may vary slightly.

Q4: How do I make them gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure your protein powder is gluten-free.

Q5: Are these bagels good for weight loss?
Yes! They’re high in protein, low in fat, and satisfying — making them perfect for a balanced, calorie-conscious diet.

Protein Bagels

Duration:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Servings: 3

Ingredients (19g protein per bagel):

• 150g (1¼ cups) all-purpose flour

• 30g (1 scoop) unflavored protein powder

• 180g (⅔ cup) plain nonfat Greek yogurt

• 2 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 egg for egg wash

• Seasoning of choice

Instructions:

1. Mix flour, protein powder, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.

2. Add Greek yogurt and mix until a dough forms.

3. Shape into a ball, then divide into 3 equal parts.

4. Roll each piece into a rope and connect the ends to form a bagel.

5. Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.

6. Brush bagels with egg wash, add seasoning.

7. Air fry for 10 minutes, flipping after 8 minutes.

8. Let cool 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Nutritional Facts (per bagel):
Calories: 240 | Protein: 19g | Carbohydrates: 40g | Fat: 0g