Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: Each bagel contains approximately 10 grams of protein, making them a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake.
- Quick and Easy: With only three main ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can have fresh bagels ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: These bagels can be cooked in an air fryer or baked in the oven, providing flexibility based on your kitchen equipment.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to be gluten-free or dairy-free, and personalize with your favorite toppings like everything seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds.
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 (for egg wash, optional)
- Toppings: everything seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, shredded asiago cheese (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Add cottage cheese and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 2 minutes until smooth.
- Shape the Bagels: Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each into a 6-7 inch log, then connect the ends to form a bagel shape.
- Add Egg Wash and Toppings: Whisk the egg with a splash of water and brush over each bagel. Sprinkle desired toppings.
- Cook the Bagels:
- Air Fryer Method: Preheat air fryer to 300°F. Place bagels in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-17 minutes until golden.
- Oven Method: Preheat oven to 375°F. Place bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow bagels to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: 4 bagels
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes (air fryer) or 20-25 minutes (oven)
- Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like Cup4Cup gluten-free flour.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cottage cheese to accommodate dietary restrictions. Note: This variation has not been tested.
- Two-Ingredient Bagels: Replace flour and baking powder with self-rising flour for a simpler version.
- Flavorful Toppings: Experiment with different toppings such as everything seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or shredded asiago cheese to suit your taste preferences.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Place bagels in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Defrost frozen bagels overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in the air fryer at 330°F, toaster, or microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
What makes these protein bagels healthier than regular bagels?
These protein bagels are made with cottage cheese, which increases their protein content and provides a moist, fluffy texture without the need for yeast.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cottage cheese?
Cottage cheese is recommended for this recipe due to its texture and protein content. Substituting with other cheeses may alter the consistency and nutritional value.
How can I make these bagels vegan?
To make vegan protein bagels, you would need to substitute the cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative and omit the egg wash. However, this variation has not been tested.
Can I add mix-ins like raisins or chocolate chips to the dough?
Yes, you can customize the bagels by folding in mix-ins such as raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts into the dough before shaping.
What is the texture of these protein bagels compared to traditional bagels?
These protein bagels have a slightly different texture, being softer and less chewy than traditional yeast-based bagels, but they are still delicious and satisfying.
Do I need to let the dough rise before cooking?
No, this recipe does not require any rising time, making it quicker and more convenient than traditional bagel recipes.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used; however, it may result in a denser texture. You might consider using a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a balance.
How do I prevent the bagels from sticking to the air fryer basket?
To prevent sticking, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper before placing the bagels inside.
Is it necessary to use an egg wash?
The egg wash helps achieve a golden-brown crust and allows toppings to adhere better, but it is optional. For an egg-free alternative, you can
Protein bagels
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels
Description
Protein bagels are a nutritious, high-protein alternative to traditional bagels. Made with cottage cheese, flour, and baking powder, these bagels are easy to prepare and cook in just 30 minutes. Perfect for breakfast or snacks, they’re soft, customizable, and can be cooked in an air fryer or oven.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- 1 cup + 2 tbsp cottage cheese (2% or 4%)
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
- Toppings (optional): everything seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, shredded asiago cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Mix in cottage cheese until a dough forms.
- Knead: Knead dough on a floured surface for 2 minutes until smooth.
- Shape: Divide dough into 4 portions, roll into logs, and form bagel shapes.
- Egg Wash & Toppings: Apply egg wash (optional) and sprinkle with toppings of choice.
- Cook Bagels:
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 300°F, cook for 15-17 minutes until golden.
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F, bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Cool & Serve: Allow bagels to cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Customizations: Substitute with gluten-free or dairy-free alternatives for dietary needs.
- Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in an air fryer, toaster, or microwave.
- Variations: Add mix-ins like raisins, chocolate chips, or experiment with different toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-17 minutes (air fryer) or 20-25 minutes (oven)
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Air Fryer, Oven
- Cuisine: American
