Fluffy 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels Air Fryer Recipe

Whipping up these simple 3 ingredient protein bagels in an air fryer can revolutionize breakfast for fitness enthusiasts.

Bagel lovers know protein-packed morning meals make a significant difference in energy levels.

Compact kitchen gadgets like air fryers simplify cooking complex recipes with minimal effort.

Nutritious ingredients combine seamlessly to create a delightful morning treat that satisfies hunger and supports wellness goals.

Minimal prep work means you can enjoy a quick, healthy breakfast without complicated techniques.

Muscle-building protein meets convenient cooking, making breakfast both delicious and efficient.

Let’s unlock this super-simple recipe that transforms ordinary mornings into extraordinary nutrition moments.

Protein Bagels Made With Just 3 Simple Ingredients

• Whip Up Quickly: Effortless recipe that takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy mornings or last-minute meal prep.
• Protein Power Punch: Packed with cottage cheese and protein, delivering a nutritious breakfast or snack option that supports muscle health and keeps you full.
• Family-Friendly Flexibility: Customizable with various toppings like everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or herbs, making it appealing to different taste preferences and age groups.
• Minimal Ingredient Magic: Requires only 3-4 simple pantry staples, eliminating complicated shopping trips and reducing kitchen complexity for home cooks.

Air Fryer Protein Bagels in 3 Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• All-Purpose Flour: The structural foundation that provides the bagel's body and texture, key for creating a light and soft base.
• Baking Powder: Essential leavening agent that helps the bagels rise and become fluffy in the air fryer.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the other ingredients.

• Cottage Cheese, Egg: Protein-rich ingredients that add moisture, richness, and help bind the dough together. Full-fat cottage cheese works best for maximum creaminess.

• Egg Wash: Creates a golden-brown shiny exterior and helps additional toppings stick to the bagel surface.
• Optional Toppings: Seeds like sesame, everything bagel seasoning, or herbs can add extra flavor and visual appeal. Choose based on personal preference.

Protein Bagels 3-Ingredient Air Fryer Method

Step 1: Blend Dry Ingredients

Grab a mixing bowl and toss in the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Whisk these ingredients together until they’re perfectly combined and create a smooth, consistent base for your protein-packed bagels.

Step 2: Create Dough Mixture

Pour in the cottage cheese and crack an egg into the bowl.

Mix everything thoroughly until a soft, pliable dough starts to take shape.

The mixture should feel slightly sticky but manageable.

Step 3: Shape Bagel Rounds

Divide the dough into equal portions using your hands or a kitchen knife.

Roll each portion and form classic circular bagel shapes with a hole in the center.

Press and smooth the edges to ensure they hold together during cooking.

Step 4: Prepare for Cooking

Brush the surface of each bagel with egg wash for a gorgeous golden finish.

• Everything bagel seasoning
• Sesame seeds
• Poppy seeds
• Dried herbs

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

Place the bagels in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not touching.

Cook at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.

Keep an eye on them to achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and crispy exterior.

Once done, remove and let cool slightly before serving.

Air Fryer Pointers for Protein Bagels

• Add a scoop of protein powder to the dough for extra nutrition and muscle-building benefits.
• Experiment with everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or dried herbs to enhance flavor profile and texture.
• Knead the mixture thoroughly to ensure a smooth, uniform dough that holds its shape during air frying.
• Use a pastry brush to evenly apply egg wash for a glossy, golden-brown exterior that looks professionally baked.
• Cool bagels completely before storing in an airtight container to maintain crispness and prevent sogginess.

Protein Bagels (Air Fryer) Reheat Guide

• Store leftover bagels in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap to prevent moisture and maintain freshness.
• Place cooled bagels in a freezer-safe bag or container. They'll keep well for 2-3 months. Separate bagels with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Warm refrigerated or thawed bagels at 300F for 2-3 minutes until crispy and heated through. Avoid overheating to prevent dryness.
• Quickly reheat for 15-20 seconds. Add a damp paper towel to retain moisture and prevent hardening.

Toppings for Protein Bagels

• Pair Protein-Packed Savory: Top these protein bagels with cream cheese and smoked salmon for a classic, nutrient-dense breakfast that delivers rich flavors and satisfying protein.
• Complement with Fresh Beverages: Brew a light cold brew coffee or fresh green tea to balance the bagel's warmth and enhance its wholesome texture with a crisp, refreshing drink.
• Match with Protein-Rich Spreads: Spread almond butter or Greek yogurt mixed with herbs on these bagels to amplify the protein content and add delightful, creamy dimensions to each bite.
• Create Breakfast Harmony: Serve alongside a small spinach and feta frittata to create a complete morning meal that offers balanced nutrition and complementary protein sources.

3 Ingredient Protein Bagels Quick Options

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly option that maintains the same protein-packed texture.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Swap regular flour with coconut flour and add extra egg to boost protein while reducing carbohydrate content for keto dieters.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use plant-based cottage cheese substitute like tofu ricotta or vegan cream cheese to accommodate dairy-sensitive individuals without losing creamy consistency.
• High-Protein Boost: Incorporate whey or plant-based protein powder directly into the dough mixture for additional muscle-building protein content, perfect for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

FAQs

• Are these bagels really high in protein?

Yes, cottage cheese provides a significant protein boost, making these bagels a great option for those looking to increase protein intake without using protein powders.

• Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture might slightly change. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for better consistency.

• Do I need special equipment to make these bagels?

An air fryer is ideal, but you can also bake these in a conventional oven at 375F for 12-15 minutes. The air fryer just provides a crispier exterior.

• What toppings work best with these protein bagels?

Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and dried herbs like oregano or rosemary are excellent choices that complement the plain base of these bagels.

Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels Air Fryer Recipe

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• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Protein-packed Bagels emerge as a quick culinary miracle with just three ingredients, whipped up effortlessly in an air fryer. Home chefs can enjoy these protein-rich circles of goodness with minimal prep and maximum satisfaction.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 pinch salt (optional)

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons cottage cheese (2% or 4%)
• 1 egg (optional)

Toppings:

• everything seasoning
• poppy seeds
• sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly blend self-rising flour, baking powder, and salt in a spacious mixing vessel until uniformly integrated.
2. Incorporate cottage cheese and egg, gently folding ingredients until a cohesive, slightly sticky dough emerges.
3. Partition the dough into equal segments, carefully sculpting each portion into a classic ring shape with a centered opening.
4. Delicately apply a glossy egg wash across the surface of each bagel, ensuring complete coverage for optimal browning.
5. Enhance the exterior with selected garnishes like everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or cracked black pepper.
6. Position bagels inside the air fryer basket, maintaining slight separation to allow proper hot air circulation.
7. Configure air fryer to 350°F and execute a precise cooking cycle of 10-12 minutes, rotating midway to guarantee even golden-brown coloration.
8. Extract bagels once they achieve a crisp exterior and tender inner crumb, allowing brief cooling before serving to preserve optimal texture.

Notes

• Ensure cottage cheese is at room temperature for smoother dough consistency and easier mixing.
• For gluten-free option, swap regular flour with almond or coconut flour to maintain protein content.
• Prevent sticking by lightly spraying air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray before placing bagels.
• Experiment with savory toppings like everything bagel seasoning or herbs to enhance flavor profile without adding significant calories.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: 30mg