If you’re a fan of healthy, satisfying breakfasts that don’t sacrifice flavor for nutrition, these Air Fryer Protein Bagels are about to change your morning game. With a simple ingredient lineup and a remarkably easy process, you’ll have golden, chewy bagels packed with protein—all in under half an hour and without turning on your oven. They’re perfect for any time you crave a bagel but want to stay on track with your nutrition goals. Trust me, after one bite, you’ll want Air Fryer Protein Bagels on repeat for busy workdays, lazy brunches, and grab-and-go snacks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s honestly amazing how a handful of pantry staples can transform into something so delicious. Every ingredient in these Air Fryer Protein Bagels pulls its weight, whether it’s for that signature chew, a protein boost, or a perfect golden top. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why it matters:
- Greek Yogurt: Adds moisture, boosts protein, and keeps the crumb tender.
- Self-Rising Flour: Gives the bagels their lift and classic bready texture. (Mix with baking powder and salt if using all-purpose flour.)
- Protein Powder: Packs in extra protein for satiety and gives a lovely lightness to the dough.
- Egg (for wash): Helps the bagels brown beautifully and lets toppings stick.
- Everything Bagel Seasoning (optional): For that iconic, savory flavor punch—use as much or as little as you like.
- Sesame Seeds & Poppy Seeds (optional): For extra crunch and visual appeal.
How to Make Air Fryer Protein Bagels
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a medium mixing bowl, you’ll combine the Greek yogurt, self-rising flour, and protein powder. Start stirring with a spoon or spatula; it’ll seem shaggy at first, but keep going! As the yogurt incorporates, you’ll see the dough come together. It should be just slightly sticky but workable—if needed, add a sprinkle of flour to make it manageable.
Step 2: Knead Until Smooth
Lightly flour your work surface and turn out the dough. Knead gently for about 2 to 3 minutes; you’re looking for a smooth, elastic ball that isn’t too tacky. The kneading gives classic bagel structure and helps everything meld together.
Step 3: Shape the Bagels
Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each piece into a rope, about 8 inches long. To shape, just bring the ends together and pinch to seal, forming a circle. Now you’ve got four perfect, ready-to-bake Air Fryer Protein Bagels!
Step 4: Top and Prep for Air Frying
Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of each formed bagel—this is the step for those shiny, bakery-style tops. Sprinkle generously with everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds, according to your mood and pantry stock.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 280°F (140°C) so you’re ready for maximum rise. Arrange the bagels in your basket, leaving a bit of space between each one. Air fry for 15 to 18 minutes—peek at the 15-minute mark for gorgeously golden bagels that sound slightly hollow when tapped and look irresistible. Let them cool for a few minutes before digging in (if you can wait!).
How to Serve Air Fryer Protein Bagels
Garnishes
The magic of Air Fryer Protein Bagels is how fun they are to personalize. Try a dusting of flaky sea salt, extra seeds, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs just after air frying. For a sweet twist, drizzle on a little honey or add a smear of almond butter—yum!
Side Dishes
A warm Air Fryer Protein Bagel pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit, a small bowl of Greek yogurt, or even a vibrant salad if you’re feeling brunchy. For a truly satisfying breakfast, pile your bagel high with scrambled eggs, smoked salmon, or sliced avocado.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these protein-packed bagels into grab-and-go sandwiches with turkey, cheese, and greens, or serve mini versions on a brunch board with spreads like whipped feta, hummus, or jam. They also make adorable open-faced bites topped with cottage cheese and cucumber for a high-protein snack platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Air Fryer Protein Bagels keep really well! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Their texture stays surprisingly chewy and soft, making them great for meal prep.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze these bagels for longer storage. Once cooled, wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months. Defrost overnight in the fridge or pop straight into the toaster from frozen.
Reheating
To recapture their just-baked glory, slice your bagel and toast it before serving. The texture will be perfectly crisp on the outside and soft inside—just as a bagel should be.
FAQs
Can I use flavored protein powder instead of unflavored or vanilla?
Absolutely! Flavored protein powders, like cinnamon or chocolate, can add a fun twist to your Air Fryer Protein Bagels. Just keep in mind the overall taste will shift to match your powder—so get creative!
Do I need to let the dough rise?
No rising time is needed for this recipe. The self-rising flour does all the heavy lifting, so you can go straight from shaping your bagels to air frying in just a few minutes.
What’s the best way to prevent the bagels from sticking in the air fryer?
If your air fryer basket tends to be sticky, use a piece of parchment paper or a light spritz of cooking spray before placing your bagels inside. This makes cleanup easier and ensures perfect, golden bottoms.
Can I double the recipe?
You sure can! Just make sure to air fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket, so each Air Fryer Protein Bagel cooks up evenly and gets that irresistible golden crust.
Are these bagels gluten free?
Not as written, because of the self-rising flour. However, if you swap in a gluten-free self-rising flour blend, you should get great results. Be sure to check your protein powder is gluten free too!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a breakfast or snack that feels indulgent but totally fits your goals, these Air Fryer Protein Bagels truly hit the spot. I can’t wait for you to whip these up—you’ll be amazed how quick, satisfying, and downright delicious homemade bagels can be. Give them a try and let them become your new breakfast favorite!
Print
Air Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Air Fryer Protein Bagels are a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional bagels, made with Greek yogurt and protein powder for an added boost. They are easy to make and perfect for a high-protein breakfast or snack.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup self-rising flour (or 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder + 1/4 teaspoon salt)
- 1 scoop (about 25g) unflavored or vanilla protein powder
Egg Wash and Toppings:
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional toppings: everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds
Instructions
- Mix Dough: In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, self-rising flour, and protein powder. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead and Shape: Lightly flour a surface and knead the dough for 2–3 minutes until smooth. Divide into 4 portions, roll into ropes, and shape into bagels.
- Air Fry: Preheat air fryer to 280°F (140°C). Brush bagels with egg wash, sprinkle with desired toppings, and air fry for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool before enjoying.
Notes
- You can store these bagels in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for later.
- Toast before serving for best texture.
- Try using flavored protein powder for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
