Air Fryer Protein Bagels

Name: Air Fryer Protein Bagels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup almond flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 egg; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; Optional toppings (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic powder)

Highlighted under: Easy Dish Collection

I love baking and experimenting with healthier options, which is why I am thrilled to share my Air Fryer Protein Bagels! These bagels are perfect for breakfast or a guilt-free snack. They are protein-packed and have a wonderfully chewy texture, thanks to the combination of Greek yogurt and almond flour. Not only do they satisfy my cravings, but they also provide a nutritious boost to start my day right. Plus, they cook up perfectly in the air fryer, making them deliciously golden and crispy in no time!

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:57:35.942Z

When I first tried making protein bagels in my air fryer, I was pleasantly surprised by how well they turned out. The method of using Greek yogurt combined with almond flour not only amps up the health factor but also gives the bagels a delightful chewiness that's hard to resist. After a few test runs, I found that forming the dough into a circle and air frying at the right temperature yields the best result, with a nice golden crust!

One of my favorite things about these bagels is their versatility. You can customize them with different toppings or flavors, whether it's garlic powder, everything bagel seasoning, or even some cheese. I often make a batch to have on hand throughout the week, and they reheat wonderfully in just a few minutes. Trust me, once you try these, you won’t want to go back to store-bought bagels!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
High in protein to keep you energized throughout the day
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy mornings
Customizable with your favorite toppings and flavors

Perfecting the Dough

Achieving the right dough consistency is crucial for the perfect bagel texture. When combining the almond flour and Greek yogurt, aim for a thick but pliable dough that doesn't stick excessively to your hands. If the dough feels too sticky, you can gradually add more almond flour by the tablespoon until you achieve the desired texture.

Kneading the dough gently for about 2-3 minutes works wonders. This step develops gluten, giving the bagels their wonderful chewiness. Be careful not to over-knead, as this can result in a denser final product. You want to form a dough that is smooth and slightly tacky, not dry or crumbly.

Customizing Your Bagels

One of the best aspects of these protein bagels is how easily they can be customized to suit your taste. I love experimenting with various toppings, and a sprinkle of sesame or poppy seeds adds a delightful crunch. You can also mix in spices like garlic powder or even cheese into the dough for added flavor complexity.

To switch things up, consider adding chopped herbs such as dill or chives directly into the dough. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of freshness to your bagels. Experimenting with flavors means you can enjoy a different take on these bagels every time you bake!

Storage and Reheating Tips

After making a batch of these protein bagels, you might wonder about storage. Allow the bagels to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. However, if you want to enjoy them for longer, I recommend freezing them. Wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top freezer bag for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy a bagel from the freezer, there’s no need to thaw. Simply reheat in the air fryer at 330°F (165°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. This method ensures that they retain their crispy exterior while the inside remains soft and fluffy.

Ingredients

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

Bagel Ingredients

1 cup almond flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 egg
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
Optional toppings (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic powder)

Mix these ingredients well to create your bagel dough!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Air Fryer Protein Bagels:

Prepare the Dough

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

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope and join the ends to form a bagel shape.

Add Toppings

If desired, sprinkle your chosen toppings over the bagels and press gently to adhere.

Air Fry the Bagels

Preheat your air fryer to 330°F (165°C). Place the bagels in the air fryer basket and cook for 12 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bagels to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving with your favorite spreads.

Enjoy your freshly made bagels any time of the day!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor kick, try mixing in herbs or spices into the dough. They pair beautifully with cream cheese or avocado.

Ingredient Insights

The use of Greek yogurt is integral to achieving the protein-packed nature of these bagels. It not only adds moisture but also contributes to a tender texture. The higher protein content from the yogurt complements the almond flour, making for a satisfying and nutritious snack or breakfast option.

Almond flour is a fantastic gluten-free alternative to traditional flour, providing healthy fats and adding a subtle nutty flavor. If you're allergic to almonds or prefer another nut flour, hazelnut flour can be a suitable substitute, although it may alter the flavor slightly. Just ensure it has a similar texture to maintain the dough's integrity.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find the bagels are not rising as expected, double-check that your baking powder is fresh before using it. Old or expired baking powder can lead to a flat product. Additionally, make sure your air fryer is preheated properly, as an underheated air fryer can affect cooking times and results.

For those who experience bagels that are too dense, this could be a sign of over-mixing the dough. For future batches, try to mix just until combined and avoid overworking the dough. Keeping the ratios of wet to dry ingredients accurate is also essential for achieving the perfect texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?

Yes, but the texture and nutritional profile will change.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the bagels?

Absolutely! Freeze them in a zip-top bag and toast them straight from the freezer.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

I love using everything bagel seasoning or a blend of sesame and poppy seeds!