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25g High Protein Air Fryer Bagels - Easy, Chewy, and Satisfying

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (240 g) nonfat Greek yogurt, strained if watery
  • 1 cup (120 g) self-rising flour (or make your own: 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1 ½ tsp baking powder + ¼ tsp fine salt)
  • 1 scoop (25–30 g) unflavored or lightly flavored whey protein isolate (or a neutral-tasting whey blend)
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1–2 tsp water (as needed, for dough consistency)
  • 1 tsp olive oil or avocado oil (for greasing and brushing)
  • Seasonings for dough (optional): ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder
  • Toppings (optional): everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, coarse salt

Instructions

  • Prep the air fryer: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes. Lightly grease the basket or line with parchment made for air fryers.
  • Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk self-rising flour and protein powder until evenly combined. If making your own self-rising flour, add baking powder and salt first, then whisk in the protein. Stir in optional garlic and onion powder.
  • Add the yogurt: Fold in the Greek yogurt with a spatula until a shaggy dough forms. If it’s too dry or crumbly, add 1 tsp water at a time. If it’s sticky like paste, sprinkle in a little more flour.
  • Knead briefly: Lightly flour a surface and your hands. Gently knead the dough 30–45 seconds until smooth. Avoid over-kneading; you want it soft and cohesive, not tough.
  • Divide and shape: Divide dough into 2 large pieces for jumbo bagels (about 25g protein each) or 3 smaller ones. Roll each piece into a rope 7–8 inches long. Join the ends and pinch well to seal, smoothing the seam.
  • Egg wash and toppings: Brush each bagel with beaten egg. Sprinkle on everything seasoning, sesame, or your preferred topping. Press gently so it sticks.
  • Air fry: Place bagels in the basket with space between them. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping at the 7-minute mark. They’re done when golden brown and firm on the outside.
  • Rest and serve: Let them cool 5–10 minutes. This sets the crumb and improves chew. Slice and enjoy plain, or toast and top as you like.