Air Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe

Welcome to your new breakfast obsession: Air Fryer Protein Bagels! Fluffy on the inside with a tender, chewy crust, these bagels come together in less than half an hour in your air fryer. They pack a protein punch thanks to creamy cottage cheese, and you can customize them with all your favorite toppings. Whether you’re meal-prepping or just craving a healthier, homemade treat, these Air Fryer Protein Bagels are about to become a regular feature in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the magic of Air Fryer Protein Bagels is how simple the ingredient list is. Every item in this recipe has a key role to play, from building structure to creating that classic bagel taste, making these homemade bagels as tasty as they are nourishing.

• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the bagel, lending structure and that classic chewiness you crave.
• Baking Powder: Gives the bagels their lift and keeps them light instead of dense.
• Salt (optional): Just a pinch enhances every flavor, rounding out the taste.
• Cottage Cheese (2% or 4%): The surprise protein superstar, making your bagels soft, moist, and higher in protein.
• Egg (optional): Brushed on top, it helps your toppings stick and gives each bagel a shiny, golden finish.
• Toppings (everything seasoning, poppy seeds, sesame seeds): A signature touch that lets you match your bagels to your mood—go simple or load them up!

How to Make Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Begin by adding the all-purpose flour and baking powder to a medium-sized bowl. If you love a little more flavor, sprinkle in that pinch of salt. Mix everything together until well combined. This dry blend sets the stage for your dough, making sure each bite has a touch of seasoning and the perfect rise.

Step 2: Add the Cottage Cheese

Make a little well in the center of your flour mixture, then spoon in the creamy cottage cheese. Use a fork or a small rubber spatula to start working the cheese into the flour. The dough will start out chunky, but don’t worry—it’ll come together beautifully. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, this is a great moment to use it for an even batch.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Scrape your dough onto a well-floured surface. Knead it gently for 1-2 minutes until it forms a ball and feels a bit smoother. If it gets sticky, just add a sprinkle of flour or dust your hands—no need to stress. This quick knead builds gluten for that classic bagel texture and ensures everything is incorporated perfectly.

Step 4: Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Take each piece and roll it into a 6-7 inch log, about 3/4 inch thick. Connect the ends so you’ve got a circle—a bagel! Repeat with all your dough portions until you have four bagels ready for their delicious glow-up.

Step 5: Add the Egg Wash and Toppings

Crack an egg into a small bowl and whisk it with a bit of water or milk. Brush this mixture lightly over each bagel; it’s what helps the toppings stick and gives the bagels their shiny, golden finish. Scatter your favorite toppings over the surface before the egg wash dries—go classic with sesame or bold with everything seasoning!

Step 6: Air Fry the Bagels

Preheat your air fryer to 300°F. While it preheats, line your air fryer basket with parchment paper or a quick mist of cooking spray. Arrange your bagels evenly in the basket—work in batches if needed so there’s space for the hot air to circulate. Cook your bagels for 15–17 minutes until golden and gorgeous. Start peeking at the 10-minute mark since every air fryer is a bit different.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Once your Air Fryer Protein Bagels are crisp and perfectly brown, take them out of the basket and let them cool on a rack for at least 15 minutes. This helps set the crust and makes slicing a breeze. Patience is key—the texture gets even better as they cool!

How to Serve Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Garnishes

A good bagel loves a great garnish! After the egg wash, sprinkle your chosen toppings: everything bagel seasoning for a savory punch, classic poppy or sesame seeds, or even a mix. For a pop of color and flavor, a sprinkle of dried chives or an extra pinch of flaky salt after baking can’t go wrong.

Side Dishes

Pair your Air Fryer Protein Bagels with fresh slices of tomato, crisp cucumber, or leafy greens for a simple and healthy breakfast plate. They’re also fabulous alongside Greek yogurt, smoked salmon, or a handful of fresh berries—brunch bliss in every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not try making mini bagels as party bites? Or slice your protein bagels in half and layer with whipped cream cheese, smoked salmon, and capers for a classic deli-inspired sandwich. They’re sturdy enough to hold up as a base for breakfast egg sandwiches or even as a snack with nut butter and banana slices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Air Fryer Protein Bagels (though that’s a big “if”), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, pop them in the fridge, where they’ll stay soft and tender for up to five days.

Freezing

These bagels are freezer-friendly! Once completely cool, wrap each bagel individually in plastic or aluminum foil and store in a zip-top bag in the freezer. They’ll keep their texture and flavor for up to three months—perfect for busy mornings.

Reheating

To enjoy a bagel from the fridge or freezer, slice it and pop it in the toaster or toast oven until warmed through and slightly crisped on the edges. If reheating from frozen, a quick 20-30 seconds in the microwave softens them before toasting.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt creates a different texture—slightly less chewy and more soft—but it still works well and adds protein. Use the same measurement as the cottage cheese but note your dough might need a touch more flour if it’s extra wet.

Why do my bagels come out dense?

If your Air Fryer Protein Bagels are dense, it could be that the dough was overmixed or didn’t have enough baking powder. Also, be sure not to over-knead; the goal is just until the dough comes together. A light touch keeps them fluffy!

Do I have to use the egg wash?

Nope! The egg wash gives the bagels their shine and helps toppings cling, but if you’re avoiding eggs, simply mist with water or milk before topping. Your bagels will still taste amazing, but the finish will be a little softer rather than glossy.

What’s the best way to slice these bagels?

Once cooled, use a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion. Since protein bagels can be softer than traditional bagels, letting them cool fully helps prevent tearing or squishing as you slice.

Can I double the recipe?

Of course! This recipe easily scales up for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Just work in batches when air frying, so the bagels don’t touch and each one gets evenly cooked and golden brown.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a fun, nutritious twist on a classic breakfast treat, these Air Fryer Protein Bagels are just the thing. I hope you’ll treat yourself to a batch—your mornings are about to get way more delicious!

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