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 protein powder (vanilla flavor recommended); 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp honey (optional); 1 egg (for egg wash); Everything bagel seasoning (for topping)

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Collection

I love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and these Air Fryer Protein Bagels have become my go-to! Packed with protein and flavor, they are a perfect way to fuel my mornings. What I love most is how easy they are to make right in my air fryer, giving them a delightful crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and chewy. Plus, they're customizable with your favorite toppings, making them versatile for everyone in my family.

Created by

Nola Patterson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:13:35.409Z

When I first attempted to make bagels in the air fryer, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple the process was. I experimented with different protein powders, and found that vanilla-flavored whey gave the best flavor and texture. Using Greek yogurt in the dough helped keep the bagels moist and added extra protein without extra fuss.

After a few trials, I nailed down the cooking time and temperature, resulting in perfectly golden brown bagels every time. To elevate them further, I love topping them with everything bagel seasoning before air frying for a burst of flavor. These have truly transformed my breakfast routine!

Why You Will Love These Bagels
High in protein to keep you fueled throughout the day
Light, chewy texture paired with a crispy crust
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings
Quick and convenient for busy mornings

Mastering the Bagel Texture

Achieving the perfect bagel texture is all about the right balance of ingredients. The protein powder gives the bagels their structure while also providing a nutritional boost. Using Greek yogurt contributes to a moist interior and helps create that desired chewy consistency. Make sure to mix the dough just until combined—over mixing can lead to a denser bagel. Aim for a smooth, slightly sticky dough; if it's too wet, incorporate a little extra protein powder gradually until you reach the right consistency.

When shaping your bagels, be mindful of the hole size. A large enough hole will prevent dough from puffing up too much in the air fryer, ensuring even cooking and a pleasing bagel appearance. I find it helpful to use a slightly floured surface to roll each piece into a rope. Experimenting with different sizes can help you find your perfect bagel. Remember, the bagels will expand during cooking, so don’t worry if they seem small initially!

Air Frying Techniques

Preheating your air fryer is crucial for achieving that golden brown exterior. Set it to 350°F (175°C) for at least 5 minutes before adding the bagels. This step not only helps with cooking consistency but also assists in browning the tops. It's worth checking on the bagels midway—if they’re browning too quickly, consider lowering the temperature slightly to ensure they cook evenly without burning.

To ensure the bagels cook properly, space them out in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; if necessary, cook in batches. Depending on your air fryer model, you may need to adjust cooking times slightly, so keep an eye on the bagels. They are done when they are puffed and golden brown, and an internal temperature of 200°F (93°C) indicates they’re fully cooked.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Air Fryer Protein Bagels:

Bagel Ingredients

1 cup protein powder (vanilla flavor recommended)
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp honey (optional)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Everything bagel seasoning (for topping)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious Air Fryer Protein Bagels:

Mix the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the protein powder, Greek yogurt, baking powder, salt, and honey if using. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more protein powder.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and then shape it into a bagel by joining the ends. Make sure the hole in the center is large enough.

Prepare for Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly brush each bagel with the beaten egg and sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top.

Air Fry the Bagels

Place the bagels in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Air fry for 12-15 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Cool and Serve

Once cooked, remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite toppings!

Enjoy your delicious protein-packed bagels!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding spices or herbs directly into the dough. You can also experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination.

Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Options

These bagels are incredibly versatile for meal prep! After cooling, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap or a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply take one out, and reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore that fresh, crispy texture.

If you're planning ahead for busy mornings, you can make a larger batch and freeze them. Just remember to allow them to cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals and sogginess. Reheating them is quick and will give you that freshly cooked taste without the hassle of making them from scratch each time.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about these Air Fryer Protein Bagels is their versatility. Feel free to switch up the seasonings! Instead of everything bagel seasoning, try topping them with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a sweet twist. You can also incorporate different flavors into the dough, such as adding chopped herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a pinch of garlic powder for added depth.

For dietary swaps, if you're avoiding dairy, opt for a plant-based yogurt alternative that has a similar consistency to Greek yogurt. You can also substitute almond or coconut flour for some of the protein powder, but keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly; be prepared to adjust the liquid content accordingly. Experimenting with these variations can lead to discovering your new favorite way to enjoy protein bagels!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different flavor of protein powder?

Yes! Feel free to use chocolate or any other flavor you enjoy, but keep in mind it may alter the taste slightly.

→ How should I store leftover bagels?

Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes!

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Absolutely! Let them cool completely, then wrap each bagel in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to two months.

→ What can I serve with protein bagels?

These bagels are great with cream cheese, avocado, or even a simple spread made of cottage cheese with herbs.