Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Why Make This Recipe

Air Fryer Protein Bagels are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional bagels. They are high in protein, easy to make, and perfect for any time of the day. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a light lunch, these bagels are quick to prepare and double as a great option for meal prep. You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings, making them a versatile choice for everyone.

How to Make Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• Pinch of salt – optional
• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons cottage cheese – 2% or 4%
• 1 egg – optional
• Toppings: everything seasoning, poppy seeds, sesame seeds

Directions:

1. Add the flour to a medium bowl and combine it with the baking powder. If you want, add a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
2. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the cottage cheese. Mix the dough using a fork or a small rubber spatula until it begins to form a chunky dough. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for this step.
3. Turn the bagel dough onto a well-floured surface. Knead it with your hands for 1-2 minutes until it forms a semi-smooth ball of dough. If the dough becomes sticky, add a sprinkle of flour or lightly coat your hands with flour as you knead. This can also be done in a stand mixer.
4. Divide the bagel dough into 4 equal sections. Roll each section of dough into a log that is 6-7 inches long and about 3/4 inch thick. Connect the ends of the dough to form the bagel. Repeat this until you have formed all 4 bagels.
5. Crack and whisk the egg in a small bowl and add a splash of water or milk. Brush the egg lightly all over each bagel using a rubber or pastry brush. Add toppings if you like.
6. Preheat the air fryer to 300°F. Once it’s ready, spray or line the air fryer basket with cooking spray or parchment paper. Place the bagels in an even layer into the air fryer. You may need to cook in batches if your air fryer is small.
7. Cook the bagels for 15-17 minutes until they are golden brown. Check them at around 10 minutes. Since air fryers can vary, continue cooking as needed.
8. Once done, the bagels should be golden brown, light, and fluffy. Remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Serve these bagels warm with your favorite spreads, such as cream cheese, butter, or avocado. You can also top them with smoked salmon, deli meats, or fresh veggies for a hearty snack or meal. The possibilities are endless!

How to Store Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To freeze, place them in a freezer bag and remove as much air as possible. They can be reheated in the air fryer or toaster when you are ready to enjoy them again.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Protein Bagels

• Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
• If the dough is too dry, add a little more cottage cheese.
• Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite flavor combination.
• To make mini bagels, divide the dough into more sections and reduce the cooking time.

Variation

Feel free to add spices or herbs to the dough for extra flavor, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs. You can also substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

FAQs

Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
A: Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for cottage cheese. It will give a slightly different texture but will still result in tasty bagels.

Q: Are these bagels gluten-free?
A: No, this recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends if needed.

Q: How do I know when my bagels are done cooking?
A: Your bagels should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped gently. If they don’t seem fully cooked, you can return them to the air fryer for a few more minutes.

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