Name: Air Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489568H18S
Total time: PT-489568H18S
Cuisine: American
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 (optional, for egg wash); Everything seasoning; Poppy seeds; Sesame seeds

Jump to Recipe

If you have been searching for a quick, wholesome, and wonderfully satisfying breakfast or snack, then you absolutely must try these Air Fryer Protein Bagels. They combine the chewy charm of a classic bagel with a protein-packed twist, thanks to the cottage cheese, making them not only delicious but also nourishing. Using an air fryer speeds up the cooking process and ensures a perfectly golden crust every time. Whether you are a seasoned baker or just beginning your kitchen adventures, these Air Fryer Protein Bagels will soon become your go-to recipe for any time of day.

Air Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The simplicity of this recipe is part of its magic. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, contributing to the texture, flavor, and nutritional value of these protein-packed bagels. With only a handful of commonly found items, you’re set to create a delightful dish with minimal fuss.

All-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives structure and chewiness to your bagels.
Baking powder: Acts as a gentle leavening agent to give your bagels a light rise and fluffy interior.
Pinch of salt (optional): Enhances all the flavors and balances the tang from the cottage cheese.
Cottage cheese (2% or 4%): The star protein ingredient that adds moisture, creaminess, and nourishment.
Egg (optional): Helps with binding and creates a glossy finish for toppings to stick beautifully.
Toppings (everything seasoning, poppy seeds, sesame seeds): Adds extra crunch, flavor, and a visually appealing finish to your bagels.

How to Make Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by combining the all-purpose flour and baking powder in a medium bowl. Adding a pinch of salt at this stage boosts the overall taste without overpowering the gentle flavors of the bagel. This step ensures your bagels have the perfect balance between softness and structure.

Step 2: Add the Cottage Cheese and Form the Dough

Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients and add the cottage cheese. Stir the mixture with a fork or spatula until a chunky dough starts to come together. Don’t worry if it looks thick—that’s exactly what you want here. For an even easier method, a stand mixer with a dough hook can do the work gently and quickly.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Carefully transfer your dough onto a floured surface and knead it by hand for a couple of minutes. This encourages the dough to come together into a smooth, elastic ball. If it feels sticky, sprinkle a little more flour on your hands or the surface. This step is key to achieving that traditional bagel texture, light yet chewy.

Step 4: Shape Your Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each portion into a 6 to 7-inch long log and shape it into a circle by joining the ends. This step isn’t just about looks; shaping each bagel properly helps it cook evenly in the air fryer and ensures that satisfying bite you crave.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash and Add Toppings

Whisk an egg with a splash of water or milk, then brush it gently over each bagel. This step gives your bagels a shiny, golden crust while helping your favorite toppings stick beautifully. Sprinkle everything seasoning, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or whatever your heart desires for that extra flavor pop.

Step 6: Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 300°F and prepare the basket with a light spray of cooking oil or parchment paper. Place the bagels in a single layer, leaving space between them. Depending on your air fryer size, cook in batches. Air fry for 15 to 17 minutes until golden brown, checking at around 10 minutes to ensure even cooking. This method keeps your kitchen cool and the cleanup simple.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Once out of the air fryer, let the bagels cool for at least 15 minutes. This resting time helps them set up perfectly so that when you slice into your Air Fryer Protein Bagels, each bite is fluffy and tender, with the right amount of chewiness that’s utterly irresistible.

How to Serve Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Garnishes

Top your freshly baked bagels with softened cream cheese, avocado slices, or smoked salmon for a classic touch. Fresh herbs like dill or chives add a vibrant note that complements the savory richness simply beautifully. The garnishes elevate the simple delights of the bagels into a meal worth savoring.

Side Dishes

Pair the Air Fryer Protein Bagels with fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon strips, or a light green salad to round out your meal. These sides bring contrast in texture and flavor while keeping the meal balanced and wholesome. Trust me, these combos make breakfast and brunch incredibly special.

Creative Ways to Present

Switch up the experience by slicing the bagels and turning them into mini sandwiches filled with eggs and veggies. Or, serve sliced bagels as a base for open-faced sandwiches topped with your favorite spreads and toppings. Play around with presentation; these bagels are remarkably versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your extra Air Fryer Protein Bagels fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This method preserves their moisture and chewiness, so you can enjoy almost-fresh results even the next day.

Freezing

If you want to make these bagels further in advance, freezing is your best friend. Wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months without losing their fabulous texture or flavor.

Reheating

To bring frozen or leftover bagels back to life, toast them in your air fryer at 300°F for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until warm and lightly crisped on the outside. This quick reheat method ensures they taste almost as good as freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese instead of 2% or 4%?

Yes, you can, but keep in mind that lower-fat versions may make the dough slightly less creamy and moist. The fat content helps create that tender texture we all love in these bagels, so 2% or 4% is preferred for the best results.

Do I have to use an air fryer, or can I bake these in the oven?

You can absolutely bake these in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until golden. However, the air fryer gives them that amazing crust and quicker cooking time, which makes the process both fun and efficient.

Is the egg essential for the recipe?

While the egg wash helps with browning and makes toppings stick nicely, you can skip it if you prefer an egg-free option. Your bagels will still be delicious, just a little less shiny on top.

Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?

Definitely! Adding fresh herbs like rosemary or spices like garlic powder can personalize the flavor. Just fold them into the flour mixture before adding the cottage cheese for an extra savory twist.

How do I know when the bagels are fully cooked?

Look for a golden-brown exterior and a light, fluffy interior when cooled. The bagels should feel firm to the touch but not hard. If you aren’t sure, cutting into one after cooling will reveal if it’s cooked through and ready to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about turning simple ingredients into a warm, satisfying treat using your air fryer, and these Air Fryer Protein Bagels are a shining example. They’re easy, nutritious, and endlessly customizable, making them a perfect addition to your breakfast or snack lineup. I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience first-hand just how delightful protein-packed bagels can be. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

Air Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 19 reviews

Author: Victor
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Yield: 4 bagels 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

These Air Fryer Protein Bagels are a quick and healthy twist on traditional bagels, made with cottage cheese and all-purpose flour, and cooked to golden perfection in an air fryer. Perfect for a protein-packed breakfast or snack, they are light, fluffy, and can be topped with your favorite seeds and seasonings.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
Pinch of salt (optional)

Wet Ingredients

1 cup + 2 tablespoons cottage cheese (2% or 4%)
1 egg (optional, for egg wash)

Toppings

Everything seasoning
Poppy seeds
Sesame seeds

Instructions

Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour and baking powder to a medium bowl. Optionally add a pinch of salt for extra flavor, and mix well.
Add Cottage Cheese: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the cottage cheese. Mix with a fork or rubber spatula until the dough begins to form chunky clumps. A stand mixer with a dough hook can be used for easier mixing.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a well-floured surface. Knead by hand for 1-2 minutes until it forms a semi-smooth ball. Add more flour if the dough becomes sticky, or lightly flour your hands before kneading. This step can also be done using a stand mixer.
Shape the Bagels: Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a 6-7 inch long log about 3/4 inch thick. Connect the ends of each log to form a ring shape to create the bagels.
Prepare Egg Wash and Apply Toppings: Whisk the egg with a little water or milk. Lightly brush the egg wash over each bagel using a pastry brush. Sprinkle your choice of toppings such as everything seasoning, poppy seeds, or sesame seeds evenly over the surface.
Preheat Air Fryer and Prepare Basket: Set the air fryer to 300°F and preheat. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Cook Bagels in Air Fryer: Place bagels evenly spaced in the basket. Depending on basket size, cook in batches if necessary. Air fry for 15-17 minutes until the bagels are golden brown. Check at 10 minutes and adjust time as needed since air fryer models vary.
Cool and Serve: Remove the cooked bagels and let them cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving to ensure the best texture.

Notes

You can omit the egg wash if you prefer a less glossy finish, but it helps toppings stick and adds a nice golden color.
If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time to prevent sticking while kneading.
The bagels are best eaten within 1-2 days or can be frozen and reheated in an air fryer for freshness.
Feel free to customize toppings according to your preference.
Check your air fryer’s temperature and timing as cooking times may vary by model.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-17 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American