Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels Recipe

If there’s one magical recipe that checks every box for speed, wholesome protein, and just plain fun in the kitchen, it’s these Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels. Whether you’re a meal prep devotee, a busy parent juggling breakfast, or simply obsessed with DIY bagels without any fuss, this recipe delivers chewy, golden bagels—packed with protein—using only three main ingredients you probably already have. Your mornings (and snacks!) are about to get a whole lot more satisfying, with far less work than you ever expected for such bakery-worthy results.

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how just a handful of kitchen staples transform into chewy, golden bagels packed with protein. Every ingredient in these Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels plays a key role, which means this isn’t the time to skip or swap! Here’s what you’ll need, plus a tip for each:

• All-purpose flour: The structure-builder—delivers that real-deal bagel chew every time.
• Baking powder: Gives your bagels a lovely lift, helping them bake up fluffy, not dense.
• Salt (optional): Just a pinch brings out the flavors and gives these bagels the perfect savory note.
• Cottage cheese (2% or 4%): The secret protein powerhouse—makes the dough tender and keeps each bagel moist and hearty.
• Egg (optional): Brushed over the top, an egg wash gives your bagels that golden, glossy, bakery-style finish.
• Toppings (everything seasoning, poppy seeds, sesame seeds): Take your pick to personalize each bagel with crunch and extra flavor.

How to Make Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and scooping in your all-purpose flour. Add the baking powder and, if you like, a pinch of salt for deeper flavor. Give everything a quick mix with a fork—this gets the leavening evenly distributed for perfectly fluffy bagels later on.

Step 2: Add the Cottage Cheese

Make a well in the center of your dry mixture and spoon in your cottage cheese. Whether you use 2% or 4% is up to you, but don’t be shy—the extra creaminess helps bind the dough while boosting protein. Stir gently with a fork or rubber spatula until a chunky dough forms. For less prep, you can toss everything in your stand mixer with a dough hook.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn your dough out onto a well-floured surface. This is your moment to give it a quick 1–2 minute knead, which brings everything together and creates that smooth, stretchy bagel dough feel. If things get sticky, just dust your surface (or hands) with a bit more flour.

Step 4: Shape the Bagels

Divide your dough into four equal pieces. Roll each into a 6 to 7 inch rope, about three-quarters of an inch thick. Then, form into classic bagel rings by connecting the ends, pinching gently to seal. If you crave that satisfying bagel bite, this step is crucial—make those rounds as even as you can!

Step 5: Add the Egg Wash and Toppings

In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a splash of water or milk. Brush each bagel lightly with this wash for that shiny, golden crust. Sprinkle on your favorite bagel toppings—everything seasoning, sesame, poppy seeds, or even your own custom blend—for the grand finale before baking.

Step 6: Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 300°F. Spray or line the basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange your bagels in a single layer—not touching works best for even browning—and pop them in. Air fry for about 15–17 minutes until they’re gloriously golden. Check at 10 minutes since every air fryer is a bit different; yours may run a little hotter or cooler.

Step 7: Cool, Slice, and Enjoy

As hard as it is to wait, let your Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This little pause helps the texture set perfectly, so every bite is fluffy and hearty, just the way you want it.

How to Serve Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels

Garnishes

If you’ve never played with bagel finishing touches, you’re in for a treat! After baking, try a light dusting of flaky sea salt, a sprinkling of fresh chopped chives, or a brush of olive oil with a few extra seeds for extra crunch. Sometimes, a little smear of whipped cream cheese or Greek yogurt on top makes these Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels feel truly special.

Side Dishes

These bagels are perfect beside a veggie-packed omelet, a fresh fruit salad, or a smoky salmon platter. For a cozy brunch, serve with roasted tomatoes and avocado. Their protein power means you won’t miss the meat at all, but they also pair beautifully with turkey or ham slices if you want to make sandwiches.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the bagels and turning them into mini open-faced melts—just broil lightly with cheese and your favorite toppings. Or offer a build-your-own bagel bar: set out spreads (think hummus, almond butter, flavored cream cheeses), veggies, and proteins, and let everyone design their own. For little ones, use mini cookie cutters to stamp fun shapes from halved bagels!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels keep beautifully at room temperature for up to two days; just wrap them tightly or store in an airtight container. For longer freshness, pop them in the fridge where they’ll last up to five days.

Freezing

If you love to meal prep, bake a double batch! Let the bagels cool completely, then freeze individually wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a zipped freezer bag. They’ll taste fresh for up to two months—just pull out what you need when a bagel craving strikes.

Reheating

For the best texture, thaw frozen bagels overnight in the fridge, then toast them for a couple of minutes (straight from frozen works too). The toaster or toaster oven revives their crisp crust and chewy interior, making them taste bakery-fresh in minutes.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?

Greek yogurt works in a pinch for Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels, but cottage cheese will give you a richer flavor, extra protein, and the ideal chewy texture. If you do use yogurt, choose the thickest variety available and drain any extra liquid before mixing.

Do I need to use the egg wash?

Nope! The egg wash is optional, but it really helps the bagels achieve that irresistible golden sheen and helps your toppings stick. If you skip it, a little milk or cream brushed on top will work almost as well.

Can I bake these in a traditional oven instead of an air fryer?

Absolutely! Line a baking sheet with parchment, preheat your oven to 350°F, and bake for about 22–25 minutes or until golden and cooked through. Check a minute or two early—oven temps can vary.

Can I make mini bagels or double the recipe?

Yes to both! Divide the dough into smaller sections for bite-sized bagels, adjusting cook time down as needed. Doubling is as simple as multiplying each ingredient; just work in batches if your air fryer is small.

Are these gluten-free?

The classic recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free—but you can experiment with 1:1 gluten-free flour blends. You may need to tweak texture a bit, so expect some differences from the original.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so rewarding about baking up a batch of Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels and knowing you created a hearty, protein-packed treat with so little effort. Whether you’re savoring them warm from the air fryer or grabbing one on a busy morning, I hope you’ll fall in love with their taste, texture, and simplicity. Give them a try—you may never look at store-bought bagels the same way again!

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