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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bagel (approx. 90g)
Calories: 180 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 250 mg
Fat: 4 g
Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 14 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: Air Fryer Bagels, Protein Bagels, Cottage Cheese Bagels, Healthy Bagels, Easy Bagel Recipe, Low Fat Bagels