Air Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe

If you adore bagels but want something a little lighter and protein-packed, you’re in for a delicious adventure with these Air Fryer Protein Bagels! With a tender crumb, a scrumptious golden crust, and an irresistible dose of extra protein thanks to cottage cheese, these beauties come together with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether you love piling on savory toppings or just want a quick, healthy option for breakfast or a snack, this is a recipe you’ll keep reaching for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Air Fryer Protein Bagels is how short and sweet the ingredient list is! Each item plays a key role in creating the flavor, structure, or that classic bagel chewiness you crave, while keeping the prep wonderfully fuss-free.

• All-purpose flour: The trusty backbone of your dough, this gives the bagels their sturdy yet fluffy structure.
• Baking powder: This leavening agent works in tandem with the cottage cheese to help your bagels rise and get airy inside.
• Salt (optional): Even a small pinch draws out all the fantastic flavors, so don’t skip unless you prefer low sodium.
• Cottage cheese (2% or 4%): The secret to extra protein, tenderness, and a subtle tang that makes these different from traditional bagels.
• Egg (optional): Whisked and brushed on top, this gives a beautiful golden shine and helps toppings stick.
• Toppings (everything seasoning, poppy seeds, sesame seeds): Go wild! These dress up your bagels and offer little bursts of flavor with each bite.

How to Make Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by adding your all-purpose flour and baking powder to a medium bowl. If you like a little savory pop, toss in a pinch of salt. Whisk them together so every bite is perfectly seasoned and evenly leavened – this tiny step makes a big texture difference.

Step 2: Add the Cottage Cheese

Make a well in the center of your flour mixture and spoon in that creamy cottage cheese. Using a fork or a small spatula, gently fold everything until you get a shaggy, sticky dough. If you’ve got a stand mixer and want to get fancy, a dough hook works just as well here!

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Flour your counter (and your hands!) generously, then turn out the dough. Knead gently for a minute or two, just until things come together in a slightly smooth, not-too-sticky ball. If the dough clings, sprinkle on a bit more flour and keep going—don’t overwork it, or your bagels may get tough.

Step 4: Shape the Bagels

Divide your dough into four equal portions. Roll each one into a rope about 6–7 inches long and roughly 3/4 inch thick, then join the ends to form a ring. Press the seams together gently so your bagels stay closed while air frying. Repeat with the rest—you’ll have four lovely rounds ready for the next step.

Step 5: Egg Wash and Add Toppings

Whisk your egg with a splash of water or milk for a glossy finish, then lightly brush it all over each bagel. This step isn’t just for looks—it helps those delicious toppings stick! Sprinkle on everything seasoning, poppy seeds, or sesame seeds for a bakery-style vibe.

Step 6: Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 300°F, then lightly spray the basket or line it with parchment paper so things don’t get sticky. Arrange the bagels in a single layer (work in batches if you need to), and air fry for 15–17 minutes. Peak at the 10-minute mark to check their progress—since air fryers can vary, your bagels are ready when golden brown and puffed.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Once your Air Fryer Protein Bagels are a beautiful golden hue, take them out and let them cool on a rack for at least 15 minutes. This helps the crust firm up and makes slicing through easier. Now you’re ready to slice, toast, or eat them as is!

How to Serve Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Garnishes

Go classic with a layer of whipped cream cheese, a sprinkle of fresh chives, or a swoosh of smoked salmon. Want to keep things light? Even just a touch of Greek yogurt or a slice of ripe tomato makes these bagels shine.

Side Dishes

Serve your Air Fryer Protein Bagels with a crisp green salad, a fresh fruit medley, or a fluffy scramble for a complete brunch. They also make a sturdy base for breakfast sandwiches with eggs, avocado, and microgreens.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your bagels horizontally and use them as the base for mini pizzas, or toast slices and arrange with different spreads for a DIY bagel board. You can also halve them and serve on a platter with dips like hummus, whipped feta, or even your favorite nut butter for a sweet twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Air Fryer Protein Bagels left, just let them cool completely, then pop them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, store them in the fridge where they’ll keep for up to a week—they reheat beautifully!

Freezing

Planning ahead? No problem! Once cooled, wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months, making last-minute bagel cravings so easy to satisfy.

Reheating

Revive that just-baked flavor by popping your bagels (defrosted if frozen) into the toaster or air fryer for a few minutes. They’ll come out warm and slightly crisp, ready to be topped and enjoyed just like day one.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?

You can swap in thick Greek yogurt for some of the cottage cheese if you’d like, but cottage cheese lends the most protein and a unique, slightly tangy flavor that really makes these Air Fryer Protein Bagels special.

Do I need special flour to make these bagels?

No specialty flours needed! All-purpose flour works beautifully here and delivers great texture and chew, but you can experiment with whole wheat or even gluten-free blends—just be aware, the density and rise may vary.

Will the dough be sticky?

It can be a bit sticky at first, but don’t fret—just keep your hands and work surface well-floured. A little extra flour as you knead and shape makes all the difference without weighing down the bagels.

Can I make the bagels without an egg wash?

Absolutely! The egg wash gives a shiny, bakery-style appearance and helps toppings stick, but if you’re egg-free, just use milk or even a bit of water to moisten the tops before adding seasonings.

How do I know when the bagels are done in the air fryer?

They’re ready when they look a deep golden brown and feel light when lifted. If you want to be extra sure, a toothpick poked into the thickest part should come out clean, and the bagels should spring back when gently pressed.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to whip up these Air Fryer Protein Bagels—they’ve truly changed my morning routine for the better. With their quick prep, satisfying flavor, and endless serving possibilities, you’ll find yourself making them on repeat. Enjoy every bite!

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