Name: Air Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe
Prep time: 8 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 25 min
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); Small splash of water or milk (for egg wash); Everything seasoning (optional); Poppy seeds (optional); Sesame seeds (optional)

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Introduction

These Air Fryer Protein Bagels are a quick and nutritious way to enjoy homemade bagels without the hassle of boiling and baking. Made with simple ingredients like flour and cottage cheese, they come together easily and cook perfectly in the air fryer for a golden, fluffy result.

The image shows four golden brown bagels on a baking tray with a crinkled edge. The closest bagel is covered in a mix of black and white sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and other small seeds, giving it a speckled texture. The bagels have a shiny, slightly glossy surface and a soft, chewy appearance with some browned spots. The tray is dark and contrasts with the light color of the bagels. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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)
Toppings: everything seasoning, poppy seeds, sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Add a pinch of salt if using for extra flavor.
Step 2: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the cottage cheese. Mix with a fork or small spatula until the dough starts to come together with a chunky texture. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
Step 3: Turn the dough onto a well-floured surface and knead by hand for 1-2 minutes until it forms a semi-smooth ball. If sticky, sprinkle a little flour on your hands or the surface while kneading. A stand mixer with a dough hook can also be used.

Step 4: Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6-7 inch log about ¾ inch thick, then connect the ends to form a bagel shape. Repeat with all pieces.
Step 5: Whisk the egg with a splash of water or milk. Lightly brush the tops of the bagels with this egg wash and sprinkle your chosen toppings.
Step 6: Preheat the air fryer to 300°F. Spray or line the fryer basket with cooking spray or parchment paper. Place the bagels in a single layer inside the basket (cook in batches if needed). Air fry for 15-17 minutes until golden, checking around 10 minutes to ensure they don’t overcook.

Step 7: Remove the bagels and let them cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

Use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a different texture and tang.
Add garlic powder or herbs to the dough for extra flavor.

Try different toppings like coarse salt, dried onion flakes, or shredded cheese.
If you don’t have an air fryer, bake the bagels at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Storage

Store the bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped for up to 1 month. Reheat in a toaster or air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of four golden-brown bagels on a baking tray with a dark surface. The main bagel in focus is sprinkled with mixed seeds like sesame, poppy, and salt, giving it a speckled look with white, black, and light brown colors on the top crust. The bagel crust looks shiny and smooth, with a slightly rough texture from the seeds. The other bagels in the background have a plain golden crust with a few shiny spots. The baking tray has a slightly worn, dark metal texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bagels without an air fryer?

Yes, these bagels can be baked in a conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.

Do I have to use the egg wash?

The egg wash helps the toppings stick and gives the bagels a nice glossy finish, but it’s optional. You can skip it for an egg-free version; just sprinkle the toppings gently and press them lightly onto the dough.