There’s something truly special about starting the day with a warm, freshly baked bagel. When that bagel is not only delicious but also packed with protein, it feels like a double win. These easy high protein bagels combine the classic chewy texture we all love with a nutritional boost, making them a perfect choice for breakfast or a satisfying snack.

Tools You Need

Before making this recipe, it’s helpful to gather all the necessary tools. You’ll need a mixing bowl, a whisk, a clean surface for kneading, a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and a brush for applying the egg wash. Having these tools ready ensures a smooth baking experience.

Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-Purpose Flour: 2¼ cups. You can also use bread flour for a slightly different texture.
Baking Powder: 4 teaspoons. This acts as our leavening agent.
Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon.
Greek Yogurt: 1½ cups. This is the secret to adding protein and moisture.
Egg White: Lightly beaten, for brushing the tops.
Sesame Seeds or Everything Bagel Seasoning: For that classic bagel topping.

How To Make This Bagels

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and position a rack in the center. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Incorporate Greek Yogurt: Add the Greek yogurt to the dry mixture. Mix until a dough forms. You might find it easier to use your hands for this step.
Knead and Divide: Transfer the dough onto a clean surface. Knead it a few times until smooth. Divide the dough into six equal pieces. If it feels sticky, dust with a bit of flour.
Shape the Bagels: Roll each piece into a rope about 7-8 inches long. Join the ends to form a circle, pressing gently to seal. Place each formed bagel onto the prepared baking sheet. Let them rest for 5-10 minutes; this helps them puff up.
Egg Wash and Toppings: Brush the top of each bagel with the beaten egg white. Sprinkle your chosen toppings generously.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bagels turn golden brown. Once done, transfer them to a wire rack to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Expert Tips

Flour Variations: If you have self-rising flour on hand, you can use 2¼ cups of it, omitting the baking powder and reducing the salt to ¼ teaspoon.
Seasoning Choices: Feel free to experiment with toppings. Dehydrated garlic, onion flakes, or poppy seeds can add delightful flavors.
Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 300ºF (150ºC) for at least 5 minutes. Place the bagels inside and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

FAQ

Can I make these bagels gluten-free? Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum.
What’s the best way to store these bagels? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt? Greek yogurt is thicker and adds more protein. Using regular yogurt might result in a wetter dough, so you may need to adjust the flour accordingly.

Ways to Serve

These bagels are incredibly versatile:

Classic Spread: Enjoy them toasted with cream cheese or butter.
Sandwich Base: Use them as a base for breakfast sandwiches with eggs, avocado, or smoked salmon.
Sweet Treat: Spread with nut butter and a drizzle of honey for a sweet twist.

Storage Tips

To keep your bagels fresh:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to four days.
Freezing: Once cooled, slice the bagels and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, toast them directly from the freezer.

Conclusion

Making these easy high-protein bagels at home is a rewarding experience. Not only do they offer a delicious start to your day, but they also provide a protein boost that keeps you energized. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and yields delightful results.