Air Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and surprisingly healthy twist on traditional bagels, you’re going to fall in love with Air Fryer Protein Bagels. These beauties are chewy, golden, and high in protein, making them perfect for busy mornings or satisfying snack breaks. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up a fresh batch of bagels—no boiling or yeast required! Whether you’re a meal-prep pro or a weekend brunch enthusiast, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s truly wonderful about Air Fryer Protein Bagels is their simplicity. Each ingredient has a special role—giving these bagels their signature texture, rise, and nutrient punch. Don’t skip out on any of them for the best results!
- Plain non-fat Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and a hit of protein, while keeping the bagels tender and tangy.
- Self-rising flour: The key to lift and fluff without yeast; if you don’t have it, a blend of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt works beautifully.
- Unflavored or vanilla protein powder: Sneaks in extra protein and helps with the chewy bagel crumb—unflavored is most neutral, but vanilla is a subtle treat.
- Egg, beaten: Brushed on top to create a beautiful, golden crust and helps your toppings stick.
- Optional toppings (sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, poppy seeds): Make them your own by adding your favorites—each adds flavor, crunch, and classic bagel flair.
How to Make Air Fryer Protein Bagels
Step 1: Mix the Dough
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and adding the Greek yogurt, self-rising flour, and protein powder. Give it a good stir with a sturdy spoon—or just dive in with your hands! You’re looking to create a soft, shaggy dough that pulls away from the sides of the bowl. It shouldn’t be sticky, so add a little extra flour if needed. This step is where all the magic begins, with each ingredient working together to form a protein-packed base.
Step 2: Knead for Smoothness
Sprinkle a clean surface lightly with flour and turn out your dough. Knead it gently for 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic—think of it as a mini arm workout! The dough should feel supple and slightly tacky but not wet. This ensures your Air Fryer Protein Bagels have that authentic chewy texture that everyone loves.
Step 3: Shape the Bagels
Divide the dough into four equal portions (a bench scraper or butter knife makes this easy), then roll each piece into a rope about 7 to 8 inches long. Form each rope into a circle and pinch the ends together to seal. The shapes don’t have to be perfect—the rustic look is part of the charm and lets everyone know they’re homemade!
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheating your air fryer is a key step. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up for about 3 minutes. This helps create that gorgeous golden crust right from the start. If you have parchment liners, pop one into the basket to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Toppings
Place your shaped bagels on a plate or board. Brush each one all over with the beaten egg—this is what gives Air Fryer Protein Bagels their tempting golden shine. Next, sprinkle them with your choice of toppings. Go wild with everything bagel seasoning, or keep it classic with sesame or poppy seeds.
Step 6: Air Fry to Perfection
Arrange the bagels in your air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching (work in batches if needed). Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll puff up, turn golden brown, and fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Let them cool for a couple of minutes so you don’t burn your tongue on molten bagel goodness!
How to Serve Air Fryer Protein Bagels
Garnishes
A finishing sprinkle of fresh herbs—like chopped chives or parsley—or even a dusting of flaky sea salt can elevate your Air Fryer Protein Bagels. For extra flavor and shine, brush them lightly with melted butter after air frying. Sliced tomatoes, a swirl of light cream cheese, or savory smoked salmon are all fabulous upgrades.
Side Dishes
Pair your bagels with a colorful fruit salad or a bowl of Greek yogurt with honey for a balanced breakfast. For heartier fare, serve alongside scrambled eggs, avocado slices, or a crisp green salad. The protein in these bagels means you can keep things light and still stay full!
Creative Ways to Present
Slice bagels in half and make mini breakfast sandwiches—think eggs, turkey bacon, and spinach—or build a bagel bar with different spreads and savory or sweet toppings. Air Fryer Protein Bagels also make a fun after-school snack platter with nut butter, sliced bananas, or jam for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any bagels left (which isn’t always the case!), just pop them in an airtight container once completely cooled. They’ll stay soft and tasty for 2 to 3 days at room temperature—just right for busy mornings or easy snacks.
Freezing
To make your Air Fryer Protein Bagels last even longer, freeze them! Simply wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap, then pop them in a zip-top bag. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature or reheat directly from the freezer for fresh-baked flavor anytime.
Reheating
Bring leftover bagels back to life with a quick spin in the air fryer (2 to 3 minutes at 325°F). You can also pop them in the toaster. This returns that crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside texture you love from a just-cooked Air Fryer Protein Bagel.
FAQs
Do I have to use Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt is ideal because it adds protein and tang, but a thick, strained plain yogurt will work in a pinch. For a dairy-free version, plant-based yogurts can be substituted—just choose one with a thicker consistency for best results.
Can I skip the protein powder?
You can make these bagels without protein powder, but the texture will be a bit softer and the protein boost lower. If you skip it, consider adding a little extra flour for stability. The classic Air Fryer Protein Bagels recipe is best for a true high-protein snack.
What if I don’t have self-rising flour?
No worries! Make your own by mixing 1 cup all-purpose flour with 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt. It’s easy and you’ll get the exact same rise and flavor.
Help! My dough is too sticky—what should I do?
If your dough feels sticky or wet, sprinkle in a little extra self-rising flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is workable but still soft. Greek yogurt brands sometimes vary slightly in moisture, which can affect the dough.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and work in batches if your air fryer basket is small. Extra Air Fryer Protein Bagels freeze beautifully, so make a big batch and enjoy all week.
Final Thoughts
There’s something special about baking your own bagels, and Air Fryer Protein Bagels make the process incredibly easy, healthy, and, most importantly, delicious. Give this recipe a try and discover just how fun and satisfying homemade bagels can be—you might never look at store-bought bagels the same way again!
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Air Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Air Fryer Protein Bagels are a delicious and healthy twist on traditional bagels, packed with protein and perfect for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 cup self-rising flour (or 1 cup all-purpose flour plus 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt)
- 1 scoop unflavored or vanilla protein powder (about 25–30g)
Optional Toppings:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, poppy seeds
Instructions
- Mix Dough: Combine Greek yogurt, flour, and protein powder in a bowl. Knead into a dough.
- Shape Bagels: Divide dough, roll into ropes, and form into bagels.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
- Top and Cook: Brush bagels with egg, add toppings, air fry for 10–12 minutes.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before enjoying.
Notes
- Use a parchment liner in the air fryer to prevent sticking.
- Best enjoyed fresh or store in an airtight container for 2–3 days or freeze for later.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based yogurt and vegan protein powder.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
