Pin Title:
Quick & Easy Air Fryer Protein Bagels (Just 3 Ingredients!)
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Ready in under 30 minutes! These fluffy air fryer protein bagels need only 3 main ingredients—no yeast required!
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Make fluffy air fryer protein bagels in just 25 mins using 3 simple ingredients. Easy, healthy, and delicious!
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Air Fryer Protein Bagels Recipe: Ready in 25 Minutes with Just 3 Ingredients!
Hey foodie friends! Chef Jessie here, coming to you straight from my cozy little kitchen where the magic never seems to stop. Today, I want to share an absolute game-changer recipe that is going to rock your breakfast routine: Air Fryer Protein Bagels!
These bagels use only THREE core ingredients—that’s right, three!—and take under 30 minutes total. No yeast, no long rising times; we’re keeping it simple, tasty, and seriously protein-packed. Light, fluffy, and totally customizable—what’s not to love?
So, grab your apron, and let’s whip up some amazing homemade bagels together!
Memory Lane With Jessie – Why I’m Obsessed With These Bagels
I have to tell you a little backstory to these magical bagels. One weekend morning, I faced every foodie’s nightmare: craving fresh-baked bagels but realizing I had no yeast in the pantry. But then—ding!—the kitchen inspiration fairy struck. I grabbed some cottage cheese (high in protein!) and baking powder, mixed everything together, popped them in my trusty air fryer, and voila—fluffy protein bagels. Total game changer!
Since that memorable morning experiment, these super easy bagels have become a staple recipe for busy weekdays, lazy brunches, and pretty much anytime I want fresh homemade bagels without any fuss. I’m betting you’ll love it just as much as I do.
⏱ Time & Yield:
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 15 minutes
– Total Time: 25 minutes
– Yield: 4 delicious bagels
– Protein: Around 10 grams per bagel (woohoo!)
🧾 Ingredients:
Here’s everything you need in a quick, easy list:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– A pinch of salt (optional, but recommended for a flavor boost!)
– 1 cup + 2 tbsp cottage cheese (I recommend 2% or 4%)
– 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)
Toppings (Customizable!):
– Everything bagel seasoning (my all-time fave!)
– Sesame seeds
– Poppy seeds
– Flaky sea salt
– Any other topping you’re craving—get creative!
Let’s Get Cooking! Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
Step 1: Mix The Dough
In a medium mixing bowl, combine flour and baking powder (plus salt, if using). Make a little well in the center, add the cottage cheese, and stir gently until it forms a rough dough ball.
Step 2: Knead It!
Dust your surface with a little extra flour. Knead your dough for about 1-2 minutes, just enough to smooth things out and prevent stickiness. Pro Chef tip: Don’t over-knead! We want tender, fluffy bagels—not chewy hockey pucks!
Step 3: Shape Those Bagels
Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6-7 inch rope, then form each rope into your perfect bagel shape by connecting and sealing the ends. Easy-peasy!
Step 4: Egg Wash (Optional, but Recommended!)
In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a splash of water or milk. Brush the tops of your bagels to get that irresistible golden-brown crust and help your toppings stick nicely.
Step 5: Top It Up!
Add whatever toppings your heart desires right over the egg wash. Go minimal or go all out; you’re the bagel artist here.
Step 6: Air Fry Time
Preheat your air fryer to 300°F. Spray your basket lightly with cooking oil, then gently place your bagels in the air fryer basket (don’t overcrowd—cook in batches if needed). Cook for 15-17 minutes, checking after 10 minutes until they’re beautifully golden and cooked through.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let your bagels cool on a rack for at least 15 minutes. (I know they’re hard to resist fresh out of the fryer, but trust me, patience is rewarded here!)
Serve & Enjoy—Serving Suggestions
– Top with whipped cream cheese, sliced tomato, fresh herbs, and cracked black pepper.
– Enjoy as a tasty sandwich with deli turkey, avocado, and lettuce for lunchtime goodness.
– Drizzle with honey or jam for a sweeter bite. It’s your bagel, make it your own!
🔁 Notes, Variations & Pro Tips:
– Flour Flexibility: Feel free to sub gluten-free 1:1 flour or whole wheat flour.
– Storage Hack: Store up to 5 days in your fridge inside an airtight container, or freeze up to three months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
– Reheat Like a Pro: Air fry at 330°F for 3-4 minutes, pop in the toaster, or reheat gently in the microwave.
Oven Baking Method: Don’t have an air fryer? No worries! Bake these bagels at 375°F for approximately 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Flavor Lovers Unite! Try These Easy Variations:
– Jalapeño Cheddar: Fold diced jalapeños and shredded cheddar into your dough.
– Cinnamon Raisin: Mix in cinnamon, raisins, and a sprinkle of brown sugar to sweeten your morning.
– Garlic & Herb: Add garlic powder and Italian herbs to take your savory topping next-level.
Nutrition Information
One tasty bagel provides approx.:
– Calories: ~160 cal
– Protein: ~10g
– Carbohydrates: ~24g
– Fat: ~2g (varies depending on cottage cheese %)
Why Protein Bagels Are a Win-Win
These awesome no-yeast air fryer bagels aren’t just delicious; they’re packed full of protein. Having a balanced amount of protein in your diet helps keep you fueled, build muscle, and stay fuller for longer. What’s not to love about a healthy, fun recipe you can enjoy without fuss?
Your Turn—Let’s Get Air-Frying!
Now you have all the chef secrets to whip up fluffy, delicious, and healthy protein bagels at home in under 30 minutes flat. I can’t wait to see what creative bagel masterpieces you whip up! If you give these a try, let me know in the comments what toppings you used and how much you enjoyed them.
Cooking’s always more fun shared!
Happy Cooking,
Chef Jessie 🥯👩🍳💖
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 from 5 reviews)
Would You Like More?
Would you love a handy printable version of this recipe, a detailed variation guide, or perhaps a fun MidJourney-style image prompt for visual inspiration? Drop me a comment below!
And remember, you’re always welcome to hang out in my cosy virtual kitchen. See you soon! 🍽🥰
