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 almond flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 egg (for egg wash optional); Everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick Recipes

I love experimenting with healthy alternatives, and these Air Fryer Protein Bagels are a delightful addition to my breakfast routine. With a perfect blend of high-protein ingredients and the crispiness that comes from the air fryer, they are not only easy to make but also satisfying! Whether enjoyed plain or topped with your favorite spreads, each bite brings a wholesome taste without the guilt. I've discovered that using Greek yogurt and almond flour gives them a wonderful texture while boosting the protein content, making breakfast both nutritious and delicious.

Created by

Cressida Northwood

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:05:36.661Z

When I first made these Air Fryer Protein Bagels, I was amazed at how easy and quick they were to prepare! The air fryer circulates hot air around the bagels, giving them that desirable crisp on the outside while staying soft and chewy on the inside. I found that the key was in not over-kneading the dough, allowing the bagels to be light and fluffy.

To add my twist, I experimented with various toppings such as everything bagel seasoning, which elevated the flavor profile significantly. These bagels are a perfect on-the-go snack, packed with the protein needed to keep me energized throughout the day!

Why You Will Love These Bagels
High-protein content that keeps you full longer
Crispy outside with a soft, chewy inside
Quick and easy to make in the air fryer
Customizable with your favorite toppings

The Role of Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a star ingredient in these protein bagels, contributing both moisture and protein. Unlike regular yogurt, Greek yogurt has a thicker consistency that not only enhances the bagels’ texture but also provides substantial protein, making each bagel a filling breakfast option. Look for plain, unsweetened varieties to avoid adding unnecessary sugars that might alter the taste.

Using Greek yogurt allows you to reduce the amount of oil or fat typically found in traditional bagel recipes. If you're looking for a lower-fat alternative, consider using non-fat Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind that while this will keep the bagels lower in calories, it might slightly affect the final texture, making them a bit drier.

Understanding Almond Flour

Almond flour plays a pivotal role in creating the base of these bagels. It’s not only gluten-free but also adds a nutty flavor that complements the yogurt perfectly. Unlike regular flour, almond flour can retain moisture, which helps prevent the bagels from becoming too dry. For best results, sift the almond flour before measuring to avoid clumps and ensure a smooth dough.

If you don’t have almond flour, a DIY alternative is to grind whole almonds in a food processor until finely ground. However, be cautious not to over-process, as it can turn into almond butter. Additionally, you can explore using coconut flour, but it’s essential to adjust the quantities since coconut flour absorbs more moisture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Once your bagels are cooked and cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to freezer bags, where they can last up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 20-30 seconds, but be cautious as this might make them a bit softer than their freshly baked state.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Bagel Ingredients

1 cup almond flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg (for egg wash optional)
Everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Make sure to have these on hand for a stellar bagel-making experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Air Fryer Protein Bagels:

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, Greek yogurt, baking powder, and salt. Stir until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 1 minute until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center to form a bagel shape.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes.

Air Fry the Bagels

Place the bagels in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Air fry for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Optional Topping

If desired, brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning before cooking.

Cool and Serve

Once cooked, remove from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your freshly made bagels!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different toppings like seeds or cheese for even more flavor. Pair them with your favorite spreads such as cream cheese or avocado for a more satisfying meal.

Customizing Your Bagels

One of the best aspects of these bagels is their versatility. You can tailor the flavor by adding herbs or spices directly into the dough. For example, incorporating garlic powder or dried onion can add a savory depth. You might also try mixing in grated cheese for a delightful cheese bagel variant, just be mindful that this could alter the baking time slightly.

For a sweet twist, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough for a subtly sweet flavor, perfect for topping with cream cheese or nut butter after baking. Don’t shy away from experimenting with different seeds or nuts on top; sunflower seeds or sesame seeds can provide an added crunch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels aren’t rising as expected, ensure your baking powder is fresh and active. An expired leavening agent will lead to flat bagels. Also, consider the humidity level in your kitchen; adding a little extra almond flour can help if the dough feels overly sticky during the initial mixing.

Another common issue is achieving the desired crispness. To ensure a crispy exterior, make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, allowing hot air to circulate properly. If they still don’t crisp up as much as you’d like, a quick broil in the oven for a couple of minutes after air frying can enhance the texture.

Serving Suggestions

These protein bagels are incredibly versatile in how you serve them. A layer of avocado spread topped with sliced tomatoes and sprinkle of salt makes a delicious breakfast or snack. For a quick meal, layer your favorite deli meats and greens for a satisfying sandwich alternative that maintains a healthy edge.

When entertaining, cut them into halves or quarters and serve them as bites with various toppings, such as honey, a variety of spreads, or even as a base for mini pizzas. The options are plentiful, making them ideal for gatherings or meal prep throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?

Yes, but note that the texture and protein content will differ, and you may need to adjust the liquid accordingly.

→ How long do these bagels last?

They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or frozen for longer storage.

→ Can I add flavors to the dough?

Yes, feel free to mix in herbs, spices, or nutritional yeast for added flavor.

→ Are these bagels gluten-free?

Yes, using almond flour makes these bagels gluten-free! Always double-check your specific brands to ensure they are certified.