There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, freshly made bagel, especially when it’s packed with protein and fiber to keep you energized throughout the day. These Air Fryer Protein Bagels with cottage cheese and fiber are a game-changer for anyone looking for a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional bagels.
Made with simple ingredients and requiring no yeast or lengthy proofing time, these bagels come together quickly and effortlessly. Whether you enjoy them plain, topped with cream cheese, or turned into a hearty breakfast sandwich, they’re the perfect way to start your morning or fuel up for an afternoon snack.
Thanks to the air fryer, these bagels achieve a beautifully golden, slightly crispy exterior while staying soft and chewy inside. Plus, with the added protein from cottage cheese and extra fiber, you’ll feel satisfied for longer. Let’s dive into this easy, homemade bagel recipe that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – No waiting for the dough to rise! These come together in minutes and cook fast in the air fryer.
- Protein-Packed – Thanks to the cottage cheese and whole wheat flour, these bagels offer a high-protein alternative to traditional ones.
- Fiber Boost – Added fiber makes these bagels a filling and gut-friendly choice.
- No Oven Needed – Perfect for warm days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
- Versatile & Customizable – Add your favorite toppings, mix in seasonings, or make them sweet or savory!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed (optional, for extra fiber)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (optional, for topping)
How to Make Air Fryer Protein Bagels
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a food processor or blender, blend the cottage cheese until smooth. This ensures a creamy, well-incorporated texture in your dough.
In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, baking powder, salt, and ground flaxseed if using. Stir well to distribute the ingredients evenly. Add the blended cottage cheese to the dry mixture and mix until a sticky dough forms. If the dough feels too wet, sprinkle in a little extra flour, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches a soft, manageable consistency.
Step 2: Shape the Bagels
Lightly flour your hands and divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then gently poke a hole through the center using your finger. Stretch and shape the dough until it resembles a classic bagel shape.
Step 3: Apply Egg Wash & Toppings
In a small bowl, whisk the egg. Brush a light layer of egg wash over each bagel to give them a golden, glossy finish. If you’d like, sprinkle sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or your favorite toppings on top.
Step 4: Air Fry the Bagels
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the bagels in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. The bagels should be golden brown and firm to the touch when done.
Step 5: Cool & Enjoy
Remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy them warm with your favorite spreads, or let them cool completely and store for later.
Helpful Tips for the Best Protein Bagels
- Blending the Cottage Cheese – This step helps create a smooth, uniform dough that’s easier to work with.
- Don’t Overmix – Stir until just combined to avoid dense bagels.
- Flour Your Hands – Since the dough is sticky, lightly dusting your hands with flour makes shaping easier.
- Watch Your Air Fryer – Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model, so check for golden brown color and adjust if needed.
- Customize the Flavor – Mix in cinnamon and a teaspoon of honey for a sweet version, or add garlic powder and dried herbs for a savory twist!
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: High-Protein
Notes
- Dough Consistency – The dough will be slightly sticky due to the cottage cheese. If it’s too wet to handle, gradually add a little extra flour until it’s manageable but still soft.
- Blending the Cottage Cheese – Blending helps create a smooth dough without noticeable curds. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step.
- Egg Wash Alternatives – If you don’t want to use an egg wash, you can brush the bagels with a little milk or water before adding toppings.
- Topping Ideas – Try different seeds (poppy, chia, sunflower), cinnamon-sugar for a sweet bagel, or even shredded cheese for a savory twist.
- Make it Gluten-Free – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of whole wheat flour for a gluten-free version.
- Air Fryer Variations – Different air fryer models may require slight time adjustments. Start with 10 minutes, then add extra time if needed.
- Serving Suggestions – These bagels taste amazing with cream cheese, avocado, smoked salmon, or even as the base for a breakfast sandwich.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight bag or container for up to 5 days. Toast before serving for best texture.
- Freezer: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the air fryer or toaster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Yes! You can use all-purpose flour or a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute if needed. Whole wheat flour adds fiber and a hearty texture, but the recipe works well with different flours.
Can I make these bagels dairy-free?
You can try substituting the cottage cheese with a dairy-free, high-protein yogurt. The texture might vary slightly, but it should still work!
What toppings go well with these bagels?
Classic choices like cream cheese, peanut butter, or avocado are delicious! You can also make a savory sandwich with eggs and turkey ham or go for a sweet spread like almond butter and berries.
Do I have to use an air fryer?
Nope! You can bake these in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.
Related Recipes
If you loved these protein-packed bagels, you might also enjoy:
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Protein Bagels with cottage cheese and fiber are proof that eating healthier doesn’t mean giving up delicious, satisfying foods. They’re quick to make, packed with protein and fiber, and perfect for busy mornings or an easy meal prep option. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the air fryer or toasted with your favorite toppings, these bagels are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
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Air Fryer Protein Bagels with Cottage Cheese & Fiber
Description
There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, freshly made bagel, especially when it’s packed with protein and fiber to keep you energized throughout the day. These Air Fryer Protein Bagels with cottage cheese and fiber are a game-changer for anyone looking for a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional bagels.
Made with simple ingredients and requiring no yeast or lengthy proofing time, these bagels come together quickly and effortlessly. Whether you enjoy them plain, topped with cream cheese, or turned into a hearty breakfast sandwich, they’re the perfect way to start your morning or fuel up for an afternoon snack.
Thanks to the air fryer, these bagels achieve a beautifully golden, slightly crispy exterior while staying soft and chewy inside. Plus, with the added protein from cottage cheese and extra fiber, you’ll feel satisfied for longer. Let’s dive into this easy, homemade bagel recipe that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed (optional, for extra fiber)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (optional, for topping)
Instructions
In a food processor or blender, blend the cottage cheese until smooth. This ensures a creamy, well-incorporated texture in your dough.
In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, baking powder, salt, and ground flaxseed if using. Stir well to distribute the ingredients evenly. Add the blended cottage cheese to the dry mixture and mix until a sticky dough forms. If the dough feels too wet, sprinkle in a little extra flour, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches a soft, manageable consistency.
Lightly flour your hands and divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then gently poke a hole through the center using your finger. Stretch and shape the dough until it resembles a classic bagel shape.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg. Brush a light layer of egg wash over each bagel to give them a golden, glossy finish. If you’d like, sprinkle sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or your favorite toppings on top.
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the bagels in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. The bagels should be golden brown and firm to the touch when done.
Remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy them warm with your favorite spreads, or let them cool completely and store for later.
Notes
- Dough Consistency – The dough will be slightly sticky due to the cottage cheese. If it’s too wet to handle, gradually add a little extra flour until it’s manageable but still soft.
- Blending the Cottage Cheese – Blending helps create a smooth dough without noticeable curds. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step.
- Egg Wash Alternatives – If you don’t want to use an egg wash, you can brush the bagels with a little milk or water before adding toppings.
- Topping Ideas – Try different seeds (poppy, chia, sunflower), cinnamon-sugar for a sweet bagel, or even shredded cheese for a savory twist.
- Make it Gluten-Free – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of whole wheat flour for a gluten-free version.
- Air Fryer Variations – Different air fryer models may require slight time adjustments. Start with 10 minutes, then add extra time if needed.
- Serving Suggestions – These bagels taste amazing with cream cheese, avocado, smoked salmon, or even as the base for a breakfast sandwich.