INTRODUCTION
Air Fryer Protein Bagels give you warm, soft bagels fast. They use cottage cheese and flour for a high-protein base. You will spend little time and get fresh bagels in under 30 minutes. The air fryer makes a crisp outside and a light inside. This method saves oven time and keeps the kitchen cool. These bagels pair well with savory and sweet toppings. Try them for breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack with coffee or tea. If you enjoy air fryer snacks, you might like a crunchy side like air fryer buffalo cauliflower for a savory board.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love these bagels because they are fast, simple, and high in protein. The cottage cheese gives moisture and protein without heavy dough. The recipe needs few ingredients and little kneading. The air fryer gives the bagels a golden crust quickly. You can change toppings to fit your mood. They are low fuss and full of flavor. If you want more high-protein breakfast ideas, check a cozy option like high protein pumpkin overnight oats for a change on busy mornings.
HOW TO MAKE Air Fryer Protein Bagels
This recipe is hands-on but easy. You mix flour and baking powder. Then you add cottage cheese to make a chunky dough. A quick knead makes the dough smooth enough to shape. Shape into four bagels and brush with egg for shine. Cook in the air fryer at a low temperature until golden. The bagels come out light and a bit chewy like a classic bagel. The method works well in many air fryers. For more tips on using the air fryer for breads and snacks, read about making crispy treats like air fryer spiced crispy pitta chips and chickpeas.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Air fryer (large enough for four bagels or plan to cook in batches).
- Mixing bowl, medium size.
- Fork or small rubber spatula.
- Pastry brush or small brush for the egg wash.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Flour for dusting.
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray for the air fryer basket.
Ingredients You’ll Need :
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
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
Add the flour to a medium bowl and combine it with the baking powder. Add a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
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. You can also mix the dough in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
Turn the bagel dough onto a well-floured surface and knead it with your hands for 1-2 minutes until it forms a semi-smooth ball of dough. If the dough becomes sticky add a sprinkle of flour or lightly coat your hands in flour as you knead it. This can also be done in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
Divide the bagel dough into 4 equal sections. Roll each section of dough into a 6-7 inch log that is about 3/4 inch thick, then connect the ends of the dough to form the bagel. Continue until you have formed all 4 bagels.
Crack and whisk the egg in a small bowl and add a splash of water or milk. Brush the egg lightly all over each bagel using a rubber brush or pastry brush. Add toppings if desired.
Preheat the air fryer to 300°F. Once the air fryer is ready, spray or line the air fryer basket with cooking spray or parchment paper. Place the bagels in an even layer into the air fryer. You may need to do this in batches if you have a smaller air fryer. Cook the bagels for 15-17 minutes until golden. Check them at around 10 minutes and continue cooking as needed since air fryers vary.
Once the bagels are done (they should be golden brown and light and fluffy), remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for at least 15 minutes before you slice and serve them.
HOW TO SERVE Air Fryer Protein Bagels
Serve these bagels warm for the best taste. Slice them and toast lightly if you like a crisp inside. Spread cream cheese plain or flavored for a classic touch. Add smoked salmon and capers for a rich snack. Top with avocado and a pinch of salt for a green option. Use them as sandwich buns with eggs or chicken. They pair well with soups and salads. If you want a warm bowl to go with bagels, consider a hearty side like high protein lasagna soup for a filling meal.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Air Fryer Protein Bagels
Store cooled bagels in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place bagels in the freezer. Wrap each bagel in plastic or parchment and then put them in a freezer bag. They last up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw at room temperature or toast from frozen until warm and crisp. If you plan to freeze, slice before freezing so you can toast a single half when you need it. For more ideas on making meals ahead and saving time, you may like a simple freezer soup like high protein stuffed pepper soup to pair with your bagel days.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Classic: cream cheese, thinly sliced red onion, and tomato.
- Protein boost: smoked salmon and a hard-boiled egg.
- Veggie: mashed avocado, lemon, and sprouts.
- Sweet: nut butter and sliced banana or honey.
- Sandwich: sliced turkey, spinach, and mustard.
Mix and match toppings to keep meals fresh. You can make a savory breakfast board with several toppings so each person builds their own bagel.
VARIATIONS
- Cheese bagels: add 1/2 cup grated cheddar to the dough.
- Herb bagels: fold in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like chives or dill.
- Seed mix: top with sesame, poppy, or everything spice before cooking.
- Whole wheat: swap half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
- No egg wash: brush with a little milk or skip brushing for a lighter top.
- Sweet version: add 1-2 tablespoons sugar and top with cinnamon sugar after brushing with milk.
These swaps keep the base method but change the flavor to fit your taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the dough ahead and bake later?
A: Yes. You can mix the dough and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and air frying.
Q: Do I need the egg for the recipe?
A: The egg is optional. It helps give a golden shine and helps toppings stick. You can use milk or water, or skip it.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
A: You can try it. Use thick Greek yogurt and drain any extra liquid. The texture may change a bit.
Q: How do I know the bagels are done?
A: They should be golden brown on top and feel light when you lift them. Let them cool before you cut them to finish the cooking inside.
Q: Can I make more than four bagels?
A: Yes. You can double or triple the recipe. Cook in batches so the air can circulate in the air fryer.
Q: Will they taste like store-bought bagels?
A: They are lighter and less dense than classic boiled bagels. They taste fresh and a little chewy with a soft inside.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Air Fryer Protein Bagels
- Mix dough and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Shape and bake when ready.
- Bake bagels fully, cool, and freeze. Toast from frozen for quick breakfasts.
- Slice and pack with fillings in separate containers to make sandwiches in the morning.
- If you make a large batch, store some unbaked dough in the fridge and bake fresh bagels on the day you need them.
Enjoy warm bagels with your favorite toppings. This recipe is simple to change and easy to make again and again.
Air Fryer Protein Bagels
Ingredients
Method
- Add the flour to a medium bowl and combine it with the baking powder. Add a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
- 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.
- Turn the bagel dough onto a well-floured surface and knead it with your hands for 1-2 minutes until it forms a semi-smooth ball of dough.
- Divide the bagel dough into 4 equal sections, roll each into a 6-7 inch log, and connect the ends to form bagels.
- Crack and whisk the egg in a small bowl, brush the egg lightly all over each bagel, and add toppings if desired.
- Preheat the air fryer to 300°F and spray or line the basket with cooking spray or parchment paper.
- Place the bagels in an even layer into the air fryer. Cook for 15-17 minutes until golden, checking at 10 minutes.
- Once the bagels are golden brown and light and fluffy, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.