Bagels are a breakfast staple enjoyed by many, but traditional bagels can often be high in refined carbohydrates and low in protein. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative that still delivers on taste and texture, these Air Fryer Protein Bagels are the perfect solution. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these bagels are high in protein, lower in carbs, and incredibly easy to make in just minutes.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat)
- 1 cup self-rising flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning
Directions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, self-rising flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 1-2 minutes until smooth.
- Divide the dough into four equal parts and roll each into a rope. Connect the ends to form a bagel shape.
- Brush the bagels with egg wash and sprinkle your preferred toppings.
- Place bagels in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 17 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal per bagel | Servings: 4 bagels
Why Choose Air Fryer Protein Bagels?
1. High in Protein for a Balanced Diet
One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is its high protein content. Traditional bagels are made primarily from refined flour, which provides minimal protein. However, by incorporating Greek yogurt, these bagels deliver an extra boost of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, satiety, and overall health.
Protein is known to help keep you full longer, reducing cravings and preventing energy crashes. Whether you’re following a high-protein diet for weight management or simply want to increase your daily protein intake, these bagels make an excellent breakfast or snack option.
2. No Yeast or Proofing Required
Baking with yeast can be intimidating, requiring precise measurements, proofing time, and patience. Fortunately, this recipe eliminates the need for yeast altogether, relying instead on self-rising flour, which contains baking powder for natural leavening. This means you can mix, shape, and cook these bagels in under 20 minutes—a huge time-saver compared to traditional methods.
3. Quick and Convenient with an Air Fryer
The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking, providing a faster and healthier alternative to conventional baking and frying methods. Instead of waiting for an oven to preheat, the air fryer is ready to go almost instantly. Additionally, it circulates hot air around the bagels, ensuring even cooking and a golden, crispy exterior with a soft interior.
Compared to oven-baked bagels, which can take up to 30-40 minutes, air fryer bagels cook in just 10-12 minutes—perfect for busy mornings or last-minute cravings.
4. Lower in Calories and Carbs
Since these bagels are made with Greek yogurt instead of butter or oil, they naturally contain fewer calories and fat compared to traditional bagels. The combination of yogurt and self-rising flour also results in a lower-carb alternative, making them ideal for those on a calorie-conscious or low-carb diet.
5. Versatile and Customizable
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy these bagels plain, with classic toppings like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning, or get creative with mix-ins like cheese, herbs, or cinnamon for a sweeter version. They pair well with both sweet and savory spreads, making them a breakfast favorite for all tastes.
Tasty Variations to Try
While the base recipe is delicious as-is, you can easily switch things up to match your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations to experiment with:
1. Cheesy Garlic Protein Bagels
For a more savory option, mix grated cheddar, parmesan, or mozzarella into the dough. Before air frying, brush the tops with garlic butter and sprinkle with additional cheese for a crispy, cheesy crust.
2. Cinnamon Raisin Protein Bagels
If you prefer a slightly sweeter bagel, add cinnamon and a handful of raisins or dried cranberries into the dough. Once baked, spread with a little honey or almond butter for a naturally sweet treat.
3. Everything Bagel Seasoning
For that classic New York-style bagel taste, sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top before air frying. This combination of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt adds the perfect crunch and flavor.
4. Jalapeño Cheddar Bagels
Spice things up by adding diced jalapeños and shredded cheddar cheese to the dough. This option pairs perfectly with cream cheese or avocado spread for a deliciously bold breakfast.
5. Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Option
If you’re looking for a whole wheat alternative, swap out half of the self-rising flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber. Alternatively, use a gluten-free self-rising flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
These protein bagels are delicious on their own, but they also make the perfect base for a variety of toppings and meals. Here are some ways to enjoy them:
- Classic Cream Cheese & Smoked Salmon – A traditional and nutritious breakfast, topped with cream cheese, smoked salmon, capers, and fresh dill.
- Avocado Toast Bagel – Mash ripe avocado on top and sprinkle with red pepper flakes, salt, and hemp seeds.
- Egg & Cheese Bagel Sandwich – Slice the bagel in half and fill it with scrambled eggs, turkey bacon, and cheddar cheese for a high-protein breakfast sandwich.
- Peanut Butter & Banana – For a sweet twist, spread peanut butter and top with sliced bananas and a drizzle of honey.
- Healthy Tuna Salad Bagel – Top with Greek yogurt-based tuna salad for a fresh and satisfying lunch option.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
If you’re meal-prepping, these bagels store well and can be enjoyed throughout the week. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
1. Storing at Room Temperature
Once cooled completely, store the bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keeping them in a sealed container helps maintain their softness.
2. Refrigeration
If you need to store them longer, refrigerate the bagels in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the air fryer or toaster before serving to restore their texture.
3. Freezing for Long-Term Storage
For long-term storage, place the cooled bagels in a ziplock bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or toast them directly from frozen.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Protein Bagels prove that making homemade bagels can be simple, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick cooking time, they are a fantastic addition to your meal rotation, whether you’re looking for a healthier breakfast option or a quick post-workout snack.
The combination of Greek yogurt, self-rising flour, and air frying creates a high-protein bagel that is lower in carbs and fat than traditional bagels, without sacrificing flavor or texture. Plus, with endless variations and topping ideas, you can customize them to suit your cravings and dietary needs.
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to store-bought bagels, this recipe is a must-try. Give it a go, experiment with different flavors, and enjoy a fresh batch of protein-packed bagels anytime!
