Air Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe
Introduction
These Air Fryer Protein Bagels are a quick and healthy twist on a classic favorite. Made with cottage cheese for extra protein, they come together in just 25 minutes and are perfectly golden and fluffy. Enjoy a homemade bagel that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
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
Instructions
- Step 1: Add the flour to a medium bowl and combine it with the baking powder. Add a pinch of salt for extra flavor if desired.
- Step 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. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
- Step 3: Turn the dough onto a well-floured surface and knead it by hand for 1-2 minutes until it forms a semi-smooth ball. If sticky, sprinkle a little flour or coat your hands lightly with flour while kneading.
- Step 4: Divide the dough into 4 equal sections. Roll each into a 6-7 inch log about 3/4 inch thick, then connect the ends to form a bagel shape. Repeat for all 4 bagels.
- Step 5: Crack and whisk the egg with a splash of water or milk in a small bowl. Lightly brush each bagel with the egg wash, then sprinkle your choice of toppings.
- Step 6: Preheat the air fryer to 300°F. Spray or line the air fryer basket with cooking spray or parchment paper. Place bagels evenly in the basket (in batches if needed) and cook for 15–17 minutes until golden, checking at 10 minutes and adjusting as necessary.
- Step 7: Remove the bagels when golden brown and light. Let them cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use full-fat cottage cheese for richer flavor and softer texture.
- Experiment with different toppings such as garlic powder, onion flakes, or coarse salt.
- For a dairy-free option, try substituting cottage cheese with mashed cooked potatoes or a plant-based yogurt.
Storage
Store the bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped individually for up to 1 month. To reheat, warm in the air fryer at 300°F for 3-4 minutes or toast slices before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I skip the egg wash?
Yes, the egg wash is optional and mainly helps the toppings stick and gives the bagels a shiny finish. You can brush them with milk or water instead, or leave them plain.
Why are these bagels considered a protein option?
They use cottage cheese, which is high in protein, combined with flour to create a dough that boosts your protein intake compared to regular bagels.
PrintAir Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe
Delicious and protein-packed air fryer bagels made with cottage cheese, perfect for a quick and healthy breakfast or snack. These bagels are easy to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and come out golden, light, and fluffy using the air fryer method.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons cottage cheese (2% or 4%)
- 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)
- Splash of water or milk (for egg wash)
Toppings (Optional)
- Everything seasoning
- Poppy seeds
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt if using. This forms the base of your bagel dough.
- Add Cottage Cheese and Mix Dough: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the cottage cheese. Use a fork or rubber spatula to mix until the dough starts to form chunky clumps. For easier mixing, you may use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a well-floured surface. Knead gently with your hands for 1 to 2 minutes until it forms a semi-smooth ball. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little more flour or dust your hands to prevent sticking. This step can also be done in a stand mixer with a dough hook.
- Shape the Bagels: Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll each piece into a 6 to 7 inch long log about ¾ inch thick, then join the ends to form a classic bagel shape. Repeat for all four portions.
- Prepare Egg Wash and Add Toppings: Whisk the egg in a small bowl with a splash of water or milk. Brush the egg wash lightly over each bagel using a pastry brush. Add your choice of toppings such as everything seasoning, poppy seeds, or sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.
- Preheat Air Fryer and Arrange Bagels: Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Lightly spray or line the basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place the bagels in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches.
- Air Fry the Bagels: Cook the bagels for 15 to 17 minutes until they turn golden brown and fluffy. Start checking around 10 minutes as cooking times can vary by air fryer model. Continue cooking as needed until done.
- Cool and Serve: Carefully remove the bagels from the air fryer and allow them to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy fresh as a protein-rich breakfast or snack.
Notes
- The egg wash is optional but gives the bagels a beautiful shiny finish and helps toppings stick.
- If you prefer a denser bagel, reduce the baking powder slightly.
- Make sure the dough is not too sticky before shaping; add a little more flour if needed.
- Let the bagels cool completely before slicing to maintain their structure.
- If your air fryer is small, cook the bagels in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Keywords: protein bagels, air fryer bagels, cottage cheese bagels, healthy breakfast, quick bagel recipe, low fat bagels
