Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Name: Air Fryer Protein Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup of self-rising flour; 1 cup of Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon of honey; 1/2 teaspoon of salt; 1 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional); 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Easy Ideas

I absolutely love making these Air Fryer Protein Bagels for breakfast or snacks. They are quick to prepare, packed with protein, and have a delightful chewy texture that makes them incredibly satisfying. Using an air fryer not only cuts down on cooking time, but also makes them deliciously crispy on the outside while staying soft inside. With minimal ingredients, I can whip these up any time, and they’re perfect for toasting and adding my favorite spreads or toppings.

Created by

Verity Langdon

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:49:34.758Z

After experimenting with various bagel recipes, I finally hit the jackpot with these protein-packed bagels made in the air fryer. The best part is how quickly they come together, and I love the fragrant aroma that fills my kitchen while they cook. It's amazing how the air fryer mimics the traditional bagel-boiling method but in a fraction of the time.

I discovered that by adding Greek yogurt to the dough, these bagels turn out not only high in protein but also wonderfully moist. If you're ever short on time but craving something delicious, these bagels are your answer!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
High-protein and filling for a satisfying snack or breakfast
Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients
Perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings

The Power of High Protein

These Air Fryer Protein Bagels are an exceptional way to pack in protein, thanks to the Greek yogurt and self-rising flour combination. Greek yogurt not only contributes to the protein content but also adds moisture and creates a tender texture. This is especially beneficial for those looking to enhance their dietary protein intake without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction from their meals.

By using self-rising flour, you eliminate the need for added yeast or lengthy rising times, making these bagels an incredibly efficient breakfast option. The chemical leavening agents in the self-rising flour provide immediate structure and puffiness during cooking, resulting in a wonderfully chewy interior without the wait.

Customizing Your Bagels

One of the fantastic aspects of these bagels is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different spices or flavor additions. For instance, adding finely chopped herbs like dill or chives can elevate the flavor profile remarkably. You could also mix in cheese for a savory twist or sweeten the dough further by incorporating cinnamon or raisins for a sweeter version.

After baking, try topping your bagels with various spreads such as cream cheese, almond butter, or avocado. These options not only enhance flavor but also add additional nutrients, allowing you to create a balanced meal or snack tailored to your preferences.

Tips for Perfect Bagels

When shaping your bagels, be mindful of the hole size. A well-defined hole will ensure even cooking and prevent the bagel from puffing up too much and closing in. Ideally, the hole should be about an inch wide. Additionally, dust your work surface with flour generously to avoid sticking while rolling and shaping the dough.

Keep an eye on your bagels in the air fryer. Cooking times might vary based on the specific model, but generally, a perfect bagel will have a golden brown exterior. If they aren't browning enough after 12 minutes, you can add a few more minutes to ensure they reach that delightful crispy texture while remaining soft inside.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

1 cup of self-rising flour
1 cup of Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon of honey
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional)
1 egg (for egg wash)

Mix and match toppings or spices to suit your taste!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour, Greek yogurt, honey, salt, and garlic powder (if using). Mix until a dough forms. Knead lightly on a floured surface until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and poke a hole through the center to form a bagel shape. Make sure the hole is wide enough as it will shrink during cooking.

Air Fry the Bagels

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the shaped bagels in the basket, ensuring they are not touching. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Once cooked, remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite toppings!

Enjoy your homemade protein bagels fresh or toasted!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add toppings like everything bagel seasoning or seeds for extra flavor and texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These bagels are excellent for meal prepping. You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly. When you're ready to enjoy, simply let the dough come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before shaping and cooking. This will make it easier to handle and shape.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bagels. Simply slice them in half and wrap them in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When you're ready to eat, toast them directly from frozen or reheat them in the air fryer for a quick breakfast solution.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels are too dense, it could be due to over-kneading the dough. Only knead until just combined and smooth, as excessive handling can lead to a tougher texture. Ensuring your bagels are evenly shaped also contributes to consistent cooking and texture.

Conversely, if your bagels turn out too soft or puff up too much, check the amount of yogurt you’re using. Too much moisture can lead to overly soft dough. Make sure to measure accurately, and adjust the flour slightly if necessary. The goal is a dough that holds together well but isn't overly sticky.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easy to scale up or down depending on your needs. If you want to make a larger batch, simply double or triple the ingredients. Keep in mind that if you plan to cook them all at once, you may need to do so in multiple batches in the air fryer to ensure even cooking and browning.

When scaling down, consider making just one or two bagels for a quick breakfast or snack. The dough can be adjusted proportionally, and you'll still enjoy all the delightful flavors and textures without compromising the integrity of the recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?

Yes, but you will need to add baking powder and salt to substitute for self-rising flour.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the bagels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

→ What toppings go well with these bagels?

Cream cheese, smoked salmon, avocado, or even peanut butter work wonderfully as toppings!

→ Can I make these bagels vegan?

You can try substituting Greek yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt and skip the egg wash for a vegan version.