Elevate your mornings with these easy Protein Bagels, a perfect high protein breakfast that’s quick, delicious, and packed with 10 grams of protein per serving. Made with just three main ingredients—cottage cheese, flour, and baking powder—these fluffy, golden bagels can be whipped up in 30 minutes using an air fryer or oven. Ideal for meal prep, busy weekdays, or a healthy brunch, this Protein Bagels recipe is customizable, beginner-friendly, and kid-approved. Follow our simple recipe to create this wholesome high protein breakfast that fuels your day with flavor and nutrition!
Why You’ll Love This Protein Bagels Recipe
These Protein Bagels are a standout high protein breakfast, blending nutrition with convenience. Here’s why they’re a must-try:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for busy mornings or meal prep.
- High Protein: Each bagel delivers 10 grams of protein, thanks to protein-rich cottage cheese.
- Customizable: Add toppings like everything seasoning, sesame seeds, or cheese for endless variety.
- Versatile Cooking: Make in an air fryer or oven, with gluten-free options available.
- Kid-Friendly: Soft, fluffy, and fun, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike.
What Makes Protein Bagels Special?
The Protein Bagels redefine breakfast with their simple yet powerful ingredient list, making them a top high protein breakfast choice. Cottage cheese replaces traditional yeast, creating a fluffy texture and boosting protein content, while flour and baking powder ensure a light, golden crust. These bagels are incredibly versatile—bake them in an air fryer for a quick, crispy finish or in the oven for a classic result. With customizable toppings and a beginner-friendly process, Protein Bagels are perfect for meal prepping healthy breakfasts or enjoying fresh with cream cheese, making mornings both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients for Protein Bagels
To prepare these nutritious Protein Bagels (makes 4 bagels), gather these ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free Cup 4 Cup flour)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt (optional, for flavor)
- 1 cup + 2 tbsp cottage cheese (2% or 4%, preferably thick like Good Culture)
- 1 egg, whisked with a splash of water (optional, for egg wash)
- Toppings (optional: everything seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or shredded Asiago cheese)
Ingredient Tips:
- Cottage Cheese: Use thick, full-fat or 2% cottage cheese for best texture; avoid watery brands to prevent soggy dough.
- Flour: All-purpose flour works well; swap for gluten-free flour or whole wheat for dietary needs.
- Egg Wash: Optional but recommended for a golden finish and to help toppings stick in this high protein breakfast.
- Toppings: Experiment with your favorites to personalize flavor and texture.
How to Make Protein Bagels
Follow these steps to create delicious Protein Bagels:
- Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl or stand mixer, mix 1 cup flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Add 1 cup + 2 tbsp cottage cheese and stir until a crumbly dough forms, then mix until smoother.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a well-floured surface and knead with floured hands for 2 minutes until semi-smooth. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook. Add a sprinkle of flour if sticky.
- Shape the Bagels: Divide the dough into 4 equal sections. Roll each into a 6-7 inch log (about 3/4 inch thick). Connect the ends to form a bagel shape, sealing the seam.
- Add Toppings: Whisk 1 egg with a splash of water to make an egg wash. Brush over the bagels and sprinkle with toppings like everything seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds, if desired.
- Cook in Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Spray the basket with cooking spray or line with parchment paper. Place bagels in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch, and air fry for 15-17 minutes until golden. Check at 10 minutes, as air fryers vary.
- Or Cook in Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Cool and Serve: Let bagels cool for 15 minutes on a rack to finish setting. Slice and serve with cream cheese, avocado, or as a breakfast sandwich for a wholesome high protein breakfast.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-25 minutes (depending on method)
Cooling Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 40-50 minutes
Calories: ~170 per bagel
Servings: 4 bagels
Macros per Bagel: 25g carbs, 10g protein, 3g fat, 1g fiber
Tips for the Perfect Protein Bagels
- Mix Dry Ingredients First: Combine flour, baking powder, and salt before adding cottage cheese to ensure even rising.
- Knead Thoroughly: Kneading creates a smooth dough for a professional finish in this high protein breakfast.
- Use Egg Wash: Brush with egg wash for a golden crust and to secure toppings; olive oil spray works as a vegan alternative.
- Check Cooking Time: Air fryers vary, so check bagels at 10 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Cool Completely: Allow 15 minutes of cooling to set the texture and make slicing easier.
Creative Variations for Protein Bagels
Customize these Protein Bagels with these delicious twists:
- Cheesy Delight: Top with shredded cheddar or Asiago for a savory high protein breakfast.
- Sweet Twist: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar or dried fruit to the dough for a sweet bagel.
- Gluten-Free: Use Cup 4 Cup gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version that’s just as fluffy.
- Herb Infusion: Mix dried herbs like rosemary or dill into the dough for a flavorful twist.
- Low-Carb: Try almond flour (adjust liquid as needed) for a lower-carb bagel option.
Serving and Presentation Tips
These Protein Bagels are a versatile high protein breakfast that shines in any setting. Try these serving ideas:
- Slice and spread with cream cheese, avocado, or almond butter for a quick, satisfying breakfast.
- Make a breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs, bacon, and spinach for a protein-packed meal.
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a summer smoothie for a balanced high protein breakfast.
- Present on a rustic wooden board with a variety of spreads and toppings for a brunch spread.
- Turn into bagel chips by slicing thinly, seasoning, and air frying for a crunchy snack.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in an air fryer at 330°F, toaster, or microwave until warm.
- Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
- Prep Ahead: Make a batch and store in the fridge or freezer for instant high protein breakfast options.
- Refresh: Toast or air fry to restore the bagels’ golden crust and fluffy texture.
FAQs About Protein Bagels
Are these high protein breakfast bagels healthy?
Yes, Protein Bagels are nutritious, with 10 grams of protein and 170 calories per bagel, made with wholesome cottage cheese and flour.
Can I make these high protein breakfast bagels gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free flour like Cup 4 Cup to make gluten-free Protein Bagels with the same fluffy texture.
How much protein is in these high protein breakfast bagels?
Each bagel has 10-11 grams of protein; add eggs or spreads for even more protein in your Protein Bagels meal.
Can I make these high protein breakfast bagels dairy-free?
Try dairy-free cottage cheese, though results may vary; the recipe relies on cottage cheese for texture and protein.
Why are my bagels sticky in this high protein breakfast recipe?
Sticky dough may result from watery cottage cheese or under-kneading; use thick cottage cheese and knead thoroughly, adding flour if needed.
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Conclusion
These Protein Bagels are a nutritious, flavorful high protein breakfast that brings wholesome goodness to your mornings in just 30 minutes. Perfect for meal prep, busy weekdays, or family brunches, they’re easy to make and endlessly customizable. Try this recipe today and enjoy a batch of fluffy, protein-packed bagels that make breakfast both healthy and delicious!
Protein Bagels
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free Cup 4 Cup flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt optional, for flavor
- 1 cup + 2 tbsp cottage cheese 2% or 4%, preferably thick like Good Culture
- 1 egg whisked with a splash of water (optional, for egg wash)
- Toppings optional: everything seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or shredded Asiago cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl or stand mixer, mix 1 cup flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Add 1 cup + 2 tbsp cottage cheese and stir until a crumbly dough forms, then mix until smoother.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a well-floured surface and knead with floured hands for 2 minutes until semi-smooth. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook. Add a sprinkle of flour if sticky.
- Shape the Bagels: Divide the dough into 4 equal sections. Roll each into a 6-7 inch log (about 3/4 inch thick). Connect the ends to form a bagel shape, sealing the seam.
- Add Toppings: Whisk 1 egg with a splash of water to make an egg wash. Brush over the bagels and sprinkle with toppings like everything seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds, if desired.
- Cook in Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Spray the basket with cooking spray or line with parchment paper. Place bagels in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch, and air fry for 15-17 minutes until golden. Check at 10 minutes, as air fryers vary.
- Or Cook in Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Cool and Serve: Let bagels cool for 15 minutes on a rack to finish setting. Slice and serve with cream cheese, avocado, or as a breakfast sandwich for a wholesome high protein breakfast.
Notes
- Mix Dry Ingredients First: Combine flour, baking powder, and salt before adding cottage cheese to ensure even rising.
- Knead Thoroughly: Kneading creates a smooth dough for a professional finish in this high protein breakfast.
- Use Egg Wash: Brush with egg wash for a golden crust and to secure toppings; olive oil spray works as a vegan alternative.
- Check Cooking Time: Air fryers vary, so check bagels at 10 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Cool Completely: Allow 15 minutes of cooling to set the texture and make slicing easier.
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