Air Fryer Protein Bagels

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and protein-packed breakfast option, these Air Fryer Protein Bagels are just what you need! Made with only three simple ingredients, they’re perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends when you want something tasty without the fuss. Plus, each bagel is loaded with 10 grams of protein, making them a satisfying choice for any meal. You can whip them up in your air fryer or oven, and they’re versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

These bagels are not just easy to make; they’re also great for family gatherings or meal prep. Imagine enjoying fresh bagels hot from the air fryer at brunch with friends or having a healthy snack ready to go during the week. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have warm bagels ready in no time.
• Protein-Packed: Each bagel contains 10 grams of protein, helping to keep you full and energized throughout the day.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different toppings like everything seasoning or sesame seeds to suit your taste!
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love these tasty treats as much as adults do—they’re fun to make together!
• Make Ahead: These bagels can be made in batches and stored for easy breakfasts all week long.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delightful Air Fryer Protein Bagels, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Bagels

• 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 brushing)

For Toppings

• Everything seasoning
• Poppy seeds
• Sesame seeds

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make these bagels your own with any of the following variations:

• Swap the flour: Use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour if you’re looking for healthier options or have dietary restrictions.
• Add herbs: Mix in dried herbs like garlic powder or onion powder into the dough for extra flavor.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like cheese shreds or sunflower seeds for a unique twist.
• Sweeten it up: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough for a hint of sweetness.

How to Make Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by adding the flour and baking powder to a medium bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients together ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the dough. If you choose, sprinkle in a pinch of salt for added flavor—it enhances the overall taste!

Step 2: Add Cottage Cheese

Next, create a well in the center of your dry mixture and add the cottage cheese. Use a fork or small rubber spatula to mix until it forms a chunky dough. Don’t worry about it being perfect at this stage; just aim for it to come together into something manageable.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn your dough out onto a floured surface. Knead it gently with your hands for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a semi-smooth ball. If it gets sticky, just sprinkle some extra flour on top—this helps prevent sticking while ensuring a nice texture.

Step 4: Shape the Bagels

Divide your dough into four equal sections. Roll each section into a log about 6-7 inches long and connect the ends to form bagels. This step is fun! Your bagels don’t have to be perfect; each one will have its own character.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash

If you’re using an egg wash, crack an egg into a small bowl and whisk it together with a splash of water or milk. Lightly brush this mixture over each bagel using a pastry brush and sprinkle on your favorite toppings if desired—this gives them that beautiful golden color and added flavor!

Step 6: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (about 150°C). Once it’s heated up, spray or line your basket with cooking spray or parchment paper. Carefully place your shaped bagels inside in an even layer—if they don’t all fit at once, cook them in batches.

Step 7: Cook & Enjoy!

Cook your bagels for about 15-17 minutes until they are golden brown and fluffy inside. It’s always good practice to check on them around the 10-minute mark since air fryer models can vary in cooking time. Once done, let them cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing—you’ll want that warm fresh-baked goodness when serving!

With these steps complete, you’ve now mastered making delightful Air Fryer Protein Bagels! Enjoy them fresh with cream cheese, avocado spread, or simply on their own—they’re sure to be loved by everyone!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Making these protein bagels is a breeze, but a few helpful tips can take your bagel-making game to the next level!

• Measure accurately: Using the right amounts of flour and cottage cheese ensures your dough has the perfect consistency. Too much flour can make them dry, while too little can lead to sticky dough.
• Don’t skip kneading: Kneading helps develop gluten, giving your bagels that chewy texture we all love. Even just a couple of minutes makes a big difference in the final product!
• Preheat the air fryer: Preheating ensures even cooking and browning. This simple step helps you achieve that golden, crispy exterior without undercooked centers.
• Experiment with toppings: Toppings like everything seasoning or sesame seeds not only add flavor but also elevate your bagels visually. Feel free to mix and match based on your personal preference!
• Let them cool before slicing: Allowing bagels to cool for at least 15 minutes after cooking helps them set properly. Slicing too soon can lead to a gummy texture.

How to Serve Air Fryer Protein Bagels

These delightful protein bagels are perfect for any meal, and serving them creatively can enhance your dining experience! You can enjoy them plain or dressed up with various toppings.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped chives or dill on top for a pop of color and flavor that brightens each bite.
• Creamy spreads: A dollop of hummus or avocado spread adds creaminess and an extra layer of taste that complements the bagel’s texture.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt with honey: This sweet and creamy side offers a lovely contrast to the savory bagels, making it great for breakfast or brunch.
• Mixed greens salad: A light salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out the richness of the bagels.
• Sliced cucumbers and tomatoes: These refreshing veggies provide crunch and hydration, making for a delightful pairing with your protein-packed meal.
• Fruit salad: A colorful bowl of seasonal fruits brings sweetness and brightness to your plate, perfect alongside a hearty bagel.

With these ideas in hand, you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Air Fryer Protein Bagels in style! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Protein Bagels are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store them for a quick breakfast or snack throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the bagels to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, simply pop them in the air fryer at 300°F for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• If thawed, you can reheat them in the toaster or microwave for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Air Fryer Protein Bagels.

Can I use gluten-free flour for Air Fryer Protein Bagels?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for better texture.

How much protein is in Air Fryer Protein Bagels?

Each bagel contains approximately 10 grams of protein thanks to the cottage cheese. It’s a great way to boost your morning meal!

Can I customize my Air Fryer Protein Bagels with different toppings?

Yes! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Try adding garlic powder, cheese, or even herbs to the dough before shaping the bagels.

Are there any alternatives to cottage cheese in this recipe?

If you prefer not to use cottage cheese, you can try using Greek yogurt as it has a similar texture and protein content.

How do I ensure my Air Fryer Protein Bagels turn out light and fluffy?

Make sure not to over-knead the dough, as this can lead to denser bagels. A gentle touch is key!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try these delightful Air Fryer Protein Bagels! They’re not only easy to make but also nutritious and customizable. Whether you enjoy them plain or dressed up with your favorite toppings, I trust they will become a new favorite in your home. Enjoy making them and don’t forget to share your creations!