Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in about 25 minutes

• Just three main ingredients

• High in protein to keep you full longer

• Can be made gluten-free with simple swaps

• Perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly

• Great in both the air fryer and oven

• Easy to customize with different toppings

• Soft and fluffy texture without yeast

• No fancy equipment needed

• A healthy grab-and-go breakfast or snack

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 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 egg wash)
• Toppings: everything seasoning, poppy seeds, sesame seeds

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Add a pinch of salt if desired.

2. Make a well in the center and add cottage cheese. Mix with a fork or spatula until a chunky dough forms.

3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 1–2 minutes until semi-smooth. Add flour if sticky.

4. Divide into 4 equal portions. Roll each into a 6–7 inch log and connect the ends to form bagels.

5. Whisk the egg with a splash of water or milk. Brush over each bagel and sprinkle with toppings.

6. Preheat the air fryer to 300°F. Lightly spray or line the basket with parchment paper.

7. Place bagels in a single layer, cooking in batches if needed. Air fry for 15–17 minutes, checking at 10 minutes.

8. Once golden brown and fluffy, cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 bagels

• Prep time: 8 minutes

• Cook time: 17 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend.

• Whole Wheat: Swap half or all of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for extra fiber.

• Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based cottage cheese alternative.

• Sweet Version: Skip the salt and add cinnamon and a touch of sweetener before baking.

• Cheesy: Mix shredded cheddar into the dough before shaping.

Storage/Reheating

1. Store cooled bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
2. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
3. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. Reheat in the air fryer at 330°F, in the toaster, or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

1. How much protein is in each bagel?

Each bagel contains about 10 grams of protein.

2. Can I make these without an air fryer?

Yes, bake in the oven at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

3. Do I have to use cottage cheese?

Cottage cheese gives the best texture and protein boost, but you could try Greek yogurt as a substitute.

4. How do I make them gluten-free?

Use a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

5. Can I skip the egg wash?

Yes, but the bagels will be paler and may not hold toppings as well.

6. Why are my bagels dense?

Over-kneading or adding too much flour can make them dense. Knead lightly for a softer texture.

7. Can I add mix-ins to the dough?

Yes, shredded cheese, herbs, or dried fruit can be kneaded into the dough before shaping.

8. How do I prevent sticking in the air fryer?

Use parchment paper or lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding in the air fryer.

10. Can I freeze them before cooking?

It’s best to bake or air fry first, then freeze. Freezing raw dough may affect the texture.

Conclusion

Air fryer protein bagels are the perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and nutrition. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, they’re a versatile recipe you can adapt to suit your taste and dietary needs. Whether you enjoy them plain, topped with seeds, or turned into a breakfast sandwich, these homemade bagels are a healthy upgrade to your morning routine.

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