Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Air frying bagels brings an incredible crunch that perfectly complements their chewy interior, making them irresistible from the first bite. In just about 30 minutes, you can enjoy these homemade Air Fryer Protein Bagels, a deliciously nutritious option packed with cottage cheese and protein. The unique combination of ingredients ensures they turn out light and fluffy every time.

This recipe is perfect for health-conscious individuals or anyone looking for a quick breakfast or snack option. These bagels work well for meal prep, so you can enjoy them throughout the week, whether toasted with cream cheese or topped with avocado.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• They’re easy to make with just a few basic ingredients.
• The air fryer cooks them to a perfect golden brown.
• Each bagel is fluffy on the inside with a crispy exterior.
• You can customize with your favorite toppings.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make your Air Fryer Protein Bagels:

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 Toppings

• Everything seasoning
• Poppy seeds
• Sesame seeds

Use low-fat cottage cheese for a lighter option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Substitute whole wheat flour for whole grain bagels.
• Use Greek yogurt as an alternative to cottage cheese.
• Omit the egg for egg-free bagels.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your tasty bagels.

1. Combine dry ingredients

Add the flour to a medium bowl and combine it with the baking powder. Add a pinch of salt for extra flavor.

2. Mix in cottage cheese

Make a well in the center of the flour and add the cottage cheese. Mix the dough using a fork or small rubber spatula until it begins to form a chunky dough. You can also mix the dough in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.

3. Knead the dough

Turn the bagel dough onto a well-floured surface and knead it with your hands for 1-2 minutes until it forms a semi-smooth ball of dough. If the dough becomes sticky, add a sprinkle of flour or lightly coat your hands in flour as you knead it.

4. Shape the bagels

Divide the bagel dough into 4 equal sections. Roll each section of dough into a 6-7 inch log that is about 3/4 inch thick, then connect the ends of the dough to form the bagel. Continue until you have formed all 4 bagels.

5. Brush with egg wash

Crack and whisk the egg in a small bowl and add a splash of water or milk. Brush the egg lightly all over each bagel using a rubber brush or pastry brush. Add toppings if desired.

6. Preheat air fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 300°F. Once the air fryer is ready, spray or line the air fryer basket with cooking spray or parchment paper. Place the bagels in an even layer into the air fryer.

7. Cook the bagels

Cook the bagels for 15-17 minutes until golden. Check them at around 10 minutes and continue cooking as needed since air fryers vary.

8. Cool and serve

Once the bagels are done (they should be golden brown and light and fluffy), remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for at least 15 minutes before you slice and serve them.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: yes, for about 1 month without loss of quality.
Reheat: place in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 300°F.

Tips for Best Results

• Use a kitchen scale to accurately measure flour for consistent results.
• Don’t skip the kneading; it helps develop the right texture.
• Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer’s performance for perfect bagels.

Serving Suggestions

• Top with cream cheese and smoked salmon for a delicious brunch.
• Pair with fresh fruit for a nutritious breakfast.
• Serve alongside a warm bowl of soup for a cozy dinner.