Name: Air Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
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, for brushing); A splash of water or milk (for egg wash); Everything seasoning; Poppy seeds; Sesame seeds

Jump to Recipe

If you are looking to enjoy a fresh, wholesome breakfast or snack that’s both satisfying and packed with protein, look no further than these Air Fryer Protein Bagels. They are delightfully fluffy on the inside with a slight golden crust on the outside, achieved effortlessly using the air fryer. The combination of cottage cheese and eggs not only boosts the protein content but also keeps the texture moist and tender. Plus, with customizable toppings, these bagels bring a creative spin to your usual bagel routine that is sure to impress anyone at your table.

Air Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your Air Fryer Protein Bagels. Each component plays a crucial role from binding the dough to enhancing taste and appearance.

All-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing structure and that classic bagel chewiness.
Baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent to help the bagels rise and become fluffy without yeast.
Salt: Just a pinch to boost the overall flavor, optional but recommended for depth.
Cottage cheese (2% or 4%): Adds moisture, protein, and a subtle tangy creaminess to the dough.
Egg: Optional, but helps bind ingredients and contributes to the golden color when brushed on top.
Toppings (everything seasoning, poppy seeds, sesame seeds): Adds texture, color, and that irresistible final appeal.

How to Make Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Begin by adding the all-purpose flour into a medium bowl, then stir in the baking powder. A pinch of salt can be added now if you wish to enhance the flavor. This combination creates the basic dry foundation for your bagel dough, setting the stage for a perfectly textured final product.

Step 2: Incorporate the Cottage Cheese

Create a well in the center of your flour mixture and add the cottage cheese. Use a fork or small rubber spatula to mix everything together until you get a chunky dough consistency. For a more hands-off approach, a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook can come in handy here. This step is what adds the protein punch and moisture that make these bagels so special.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it by hand for about 1-2 minutes, until it forms a semi-smooth ball that’s no longer too sticky. If you find it sticking to your hands or the surface, lightly dust with additional flour. Alternatively, a stand mixer with a dough hook can handle the kneading for you, saving time and effort.

Step 4: Shape into Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each into a log about 6-7 inches long and 3/4 inch thick, then carefully join the ends to form a traditional bagel shape. Repeat this with all dough sections. Shaping is key to getting both the look and size right for even cooking in the air fryer.

Step 5: Brush with Egg and Add Toppings

Whisk the egg with a splash of water or milk, then lightly brush this mixture all over your bagels using a rubber or pastry brush. This step will give your bagels that gorgeous golden sheen. Feel free to sprinkle on your favorite toppings like everything seasoning, poppy seeds, or sesame seeds to add flavor and texture.

Step 6: Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 300°F. Prepare the basket with cooking spray or parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. Arrange the bagels in a single layer inside the basket — you might need to cook in batches if your air fryer is on the smaller side. Cook for 15-17 minutes, checking around the 10-minute mark as appliance performance can vary. Your bagels should turn golden brown and develop a light, fluffy interior.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once cooked, remove the bagels from the air fryer and allow them to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the bagels set properly, making them easier to slice without squishing and enhancing their chewy texture.

How to Serve Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Garnishes

Enhance your Air Fryer Protein Bagels with fresh garnishes like creamy avocado slices, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a smear of your favorite nut butter. These toppings not only add flavor but also contribute nutritious elements that complement the protein-rich bagels beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your bagels with colorful fresh fruit, a crisp side salad, or even a bowl of warm soup depending on the meal occasion. These sides add variety to your plate and balance the heartiness of the bagels for a satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not turn these protein bagels into sandwiches? Stuff them with smoked salmon and cream cheese, or layer with turkey, spinach, and tomato for a wholesome lunch. You can also toast them slightly for an added crunch or slice them thin for mini bagel bites at your next brunch gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once fully cooled, store leftover Air Fryer Protein Bagels in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps retain their soft texture while preventing them from drying out or becoming stale.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the bagels individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed inside a freezer-safe bag. Protein bagels freeze beautifully and can keep for up to 3 months, so you always have a nutritious snack on hand.

Reheating

To enjoy your frozen or leftover bagels, simply reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 3-5 minutes until warm and slightly crisp on the outside. This method revives their fresh-baked texture much better than a microwave.

FAQs

Can I make Air Fryer Protein Bagels without eggs?

Absolutely! The egg is optional and mainly helps with binding and browning. Your bagels will still come out tender and delicious even if you skip the egg or replace it with a vegan alternative like flaxseed slurry.

What kind of toppings work best on these bagels?

Traditional bagel toppings like everything seasoning, sesame seeds, and poppy seeds are perfect. You can also experiment with herbs, coarse salt, or even shredded cheese before air frying to switch up the flavors.

Can I substitute cottage cheese with Greek yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a slightly tangier, smoother alternative, keeping the protein content high. Just be mindful the dough might be a bit stickier, so adjust the flour as needed during mixing and kneading.

How long do these bagels keep fresh after cooking?

When stored properly in an airtight container, bagels stay fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature. To enjoy them longer, freezing is recommended to maintain their quality.

Is it possible to make these bagels larger or smaller?

Definitely! Simply adjust the portion sizes when dividing the dough and be sure to tweak air frying time accordingly. Larger bagels will require a few extra minutes to cook fully, while smaller ones will cook faster.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about biting into a homemade Air Fryer Protein Bagel that is fresh, flavorful, and packed with nutrition. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a delightful way to elevate your breakfasts or snacks with minimal effort. Give it a try and watch these bagels become one of your new favorites to make and share!

Air Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 29 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 bagels 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

These Air Fryer Protein Bagels are a quick and healthy alternative to traditional bagels, made with cottage cheese and all-purpose flour for a protein-packed breakfast or snack. They are soft, fluffy, and easy to customize with your favorite toppings, all cooked perfectly in an air fryer for a golden crust without the need for boiling.

Ingredients

Scale

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 brushing)
A splash of water or milk (for egg wash)

Toppings (optional)

Everything seasoning
Poppy seeds
Sesame seeds

Instructions

Prepare the dry mix: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt for added flavor, mixing thoroughly.
Add cottage cheese: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of cottage cheese. Mix the dough using a fork or rubber spatula until a chunky dough forms. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for easier mixing.
Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a well-floured surface and knead by hand for 1-2 minutes until it becomes a semi-smooth ball. Sprinkle flour on your hands or the surface if the dough is sticky. This step can also be done with a stand mixer.
Shape the bagels: Divide the dough into 4 equal parts and roll each into a 6-7 inch long log about 3/4 inch thick. Join the ends to form a bagel shape, and repeat for all four portions.
Apply egg wash and toppings: In a small bowl, whisk 1 egg with a splash of water or milk. Brush the mixture lightly over each bagel, then sprinkle your choice of toppings like everything seasoning, poppy seeds, or sesame seeds.
Preheat and prepare air fryer: Set your air fryer to 300°F. Spray the basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Cook the bagels: Place the bagels evenly in the air fryer basket. Depending on size, you may need to cook in batches. Air fry for 15-17 minutes, checking at 10 minutes to ensure even cooking until golden brown.
Cool and serve: Remove bagels from the air fryer once cooked, letting them cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving to allow them to set and maintain fluffiness.

Notes

If you prefer a slightly less dense bagel, use 4% cottage cheese for a richer texture.
For a vegan version, omit the egg and use plant-based cheese alternatives, but cooking time may vary.
Adjust toppings according to taste; seeds add a nice crunch and flavor.
Make sure to let the bagels cool before slicing to avoid them falling apart.
Air fryer models vary; monitor cooking times closely the first time to avoid overcooking.
Adding a pinch of salt is optional but enhances overall flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American