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 whole wheat flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); Sesame seeds or toppings of choice

Highlighted under: Smart Favorites

I love making these Air Fryer Protein Bagels because they are a deliciously healthy breakfast option packed with protein. Using the air fryer not only cuts down on cooking time but also provides a satisfying, crispy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy. I was amazed at how quickly they come together, and they’re versatile too! Topped with your favorite spreads, these bagels are an excellent way to start the day or enjoy as a snack.

Created by

Elodie Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:43:35.102Z

When I first tried these Air Fryer Protein Bagels, I was skeptical about how they would turn out. To my surprise, they had a lovely texture and flavor that exceeded my expectations. I found that using Greek yogurt adds richness and binds everything beautifully without additional fat. Experimenting with different toppings, I discovered my favorite is a simple spread of avocado and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

The cooking method also played a crucial role in achieving the perfect bagel. Air frying ensures a crispy finish without the need for boiling, which can be a messy step when traditionally making bagels. I like to keep an eye on them as they cook, ensuring they perfectly brown to my liking!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        High in protein to keep you full and energized
Quick and easy preparation in your air fryer
Customizable with your favorite toppings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Air Fryer Protein Bagels is the combination of whole wheat flour and Greek yogurt. Whole wheat flour not only contributes to the nutty flavor and chewy texture but also adds essential nutrients and fiber. It's important to choose a high-quality flour to ensure the best results. The Greek yogurt acts as a binding agent while also providing moisture that keeps the bagels soft and protein-rich—essential for a filling breakfast.

Baking powder and salt play key roles in the dough's rise and flavor profile. The baking powder creates air pockets during cooking, giving the bagels a light texture. Be careful not to overmix your dough when you incorporate the wet and dry ingredients—excessive mixing can lead to dense bagels. Adding a tablespoon of honey is optional, but it enhances the overall flavor by introducing a hint of sweetness, which balances the earthiness of the whole wheat flour.

Shaping and Cooking Tips

When it comes to shaping your bagels, make sure the holes in the center are wide enough. As they cook, the bagels puff up, and narrow holes may close up, resulting in less-than-ideal shapes. I suggest using your fingers to create the bagel ring and gently expanding it to about a 1-2 inch opening—this will help retain the bagel shape while ensuring they cook evenly. Dusting your hands with a little flour can prevent sticking during this process.

Preheating your air fryer is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior. Set your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes before placing the bagels inside. This temperature is optimal for cooking through without burning the outside. When cooking, keep an eye on them during the last few minutes; you want a golden brown finish, which can take anywhere from 12 to 15 minutes depending on your air fryer model. If you’re unsure, a toothpick can be used to check doneness—insert it into the center; if it comes out clean, they’re ready.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make these protein-packed delights!

Ingredients

1 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Sesame seeds or toppings of choice

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's make some bagels!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Air Fryer Protein Bagels.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the Greek yogurt and honey (if using) until smooth.

Form Dough

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Shape Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal portions, roll each portion into a ball, and poke a hole in the center to form a bagel shape.

Preheat Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes.

Cook Bagels

Place the bagels in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Cool and Serve

Remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before topping with your favorite spreads.

Enjoy your freshly made bagels!

Pro Tips

For a different flavor, add herbs or spices to the dough before shaping them into bagels. You can also experiment with different types of yogurt for varied textures.

Variations and Serving Ideas

These protein bagels are incredibly versatile. You can try adding herbs like dill or rosemary directly into the dough for a savory flavor. If you prefer a sweet version, consider mixing in cinnamon or vanilla extract to your wet ingredients. You can even introduce chopped nuts or seeds for additional texture. Topping options are endless—cream cheese, avocado, or a simple butter spread elevate these bagels into a wholesome meal.

For those with dietary restrictions, substitute the whole wheat flour with an alternative like almond flour or gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that this may affect the texture slightly, so you may need to experiment with the quantities to get the right dough consistency. I recommend mixing the gluten-free flour with a binder like xanthan gum to help replicate the elasticity of whole wheat flour.

Storing and Reheating

Once you’ve made a batch of protein bagels, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature. If you'd like to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Individually wrap each bagel in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll maintain their quality for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply heat them in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes; this helps restore their original texture.

Be mindful of the best way to enjoy these bagels after freezing; slicing them before freezing can make thawing much easier. You can toast them directly from the freezer or thaw them overnight in the fridge. This will help maintain their moisture and texture upon reheating, resulting in a delightful, fluffy bagel experience every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular flour instead of whole wheat?

Yes, regular all-purpose flour can be used, but the nutrition content will differ.

→ Can I freeze the bagels?

Absolutely! These bagels freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.

→ How long do these bagels last?

They can be stored at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Cream cheese, avocado, almond butter, or smoked salmon work great. Feel free to get creative!