Protein Bagels With Greek Yogurt Air Fryer

Name: Protein Bagels With Greek Yogurt Air Fryer
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 cup self-rising flour; 1 large egg (for egg wash); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt to taste; Toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Kitchen

I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Protein Bagels with Greek Yogurt, which I've perfected using my air fryer. These bagels are not only easy to make but also packed with protein and flavor, making them a great option for breakfast or a snack. By using Greek yogurt, I’ve found that the bagels come out incredibly moist while still maintaining a satisfying chew. They take just 20 minutes to whip up, and the best part is, you won’t even miss the store-bought version!

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:55:15.709Z

When I first tried making bagels, I was amazed at how simple and rewarding the process was, especially in an air fryer. The combination of Greek yogurt and few ingredients makes the dough incredibly pliable and easy to work with. I learned that the key to achieving that classic bagel texture is not to over-knead the dough, which could result in tough bagels.

After a few attempts, I perfected this recipe, which allows for endless customization. Adding toppings like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning really elevates the flavor. I've found that adjusting the cooking time based on the thickness of the bagels ensures that they are cooked perfectly every time!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
High protein content thanks to Greek yogurt
Quick and easy to make in just 20 minutes
Customizable with your favorite toppings

The Role of Greek Yogurt

Using Greek yogurt in these bagels drastically enhances their texture, making them moist and chewy. The protein in Greek yogurt not only boosts the nutritional value but also helps bind the dough, giving the bagels a hearty structure. If you're ever out of Greek yogurt, plain regular yogurt can work in a pinch, though the protein content will drop, and the dough may be slightly wetter. Adjust by adding a bit more flour to achieve the right consistency.

The tangy flavor of Greek yogurt balances well with the savory spices in the recipe, such as garlic and onion powder. This flavor profile complements various toppings, from classic cream cheese to avocado or hummus. If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with flavored Greek yogurt—just be cautious with sweet versions as they might clash with savory toppings.

Shaping Techniques

Shaping the bagels correctly is crucial for achieving that iconic bagel form. After dividing the dough into parts, make sure to roll each piece into a smooth ball to prevent cracks during cooking. When forming the hole, use your thumb to create a deep center, expanding it as needed; the bagel will puff up while cooking, and this helps maintain an even shape. If the dough is too sticky, dust your hands and the work surface with a bit of flour to help manage it.

If you're trying to make mini bagels, simply divide the dough into smaller pieces. They will cook more quickly, so reduce air frying time to about 8-9 minutes. Just check for that lovely golden brown color as your cue for doneness. Alternately, if you prefer larger bagels, make larger dough balls and cook them an extra minute or two, but remember—keep the egg wash application even for a beautiful finish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Once your bagels are cooked and cooled, it's best to store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days, but if you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Just wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer, —perfect for quick breakfasts on busy mornings.

To reheat frozen bagels, simply remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then, pop them in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for around 5-7 minutes until they’re warmed through. This method retains the bagels’ chewy texture and crusty exterior, making them taste freshly baked.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create delicious protein-packed bagels.

Ingredients

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cup self-rising flour
1 large egg (for egg wash)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt to taste
Toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start mixing.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your protein bagels effortlessly in the air fryer.

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. Mix until a dough forms. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Knead gently until smooth, being careful not to over-knead.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each part into a ball and then poke a hole in the center, shaping it into a bagel.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 330°F (165°C) for about 5 minutes.

Cook the Bagels

Place the bagels in the air fryer basket, brush with beaten egg, and sprinkle your choice of toppings. Cook for 10 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the bagels from the air fryer and allow to cool slightly. Enjoy warm or toasted with your favorite spreads!

Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices in the dough for added flavor!

Topping Ideas

Enhance your bagels by experimenting with various toppings! After brushing with the egg wash, sprinkling some sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning adds an extra flavor dimension. Each topping brings its unique taste and crunch, allowing for a different bagel experience each time. For those who love spice, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the mix for a little heat.

Additionally, fresh herbs like chives or dill can be mixed into the dough before shaping to incorporate more flavor. Cheese lovers might also enjoy adding grated cheese on top before the final air frying—Parmesan or cheddar work wonderfully and will create a deliciously crispy crust.

Customizing Flavors

The beauty of these bagels is how easily you can customize the flavor base or add-ins. If you're in the mood for something sweeter, you can omit the spices and add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough for a sweet twist. Adding dried fruits like cranberries or blueberries can also infuse the bagels with a delightful, fruity flavor, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

You can also experiment with spices—adding cinnamon for sweet bagels or cumin for something more savory. These variations not only add unique flavors but also help keep your bagel-making routine exciting!

Scaling the Recipe

This bagel recipe is easily scalable, so whether you're feeding a crowd or just cooking for yourself, it adapts well. To make a batch of eight bagels instead of four, simply double the ingredients. Make sure to maintain the same cooking temperature; however, you may need to air fry them in batches if your air fryer basket isn't large enough. If you're cooking in two batches, check the first batch's doneness before starting the second to ensure consistency.

I often recommend making a double batch to freeze after cooling, ensuring you always have freshly made bagels on hand. When ready to eat, you can grab them straight from the freezer, saving precious time during busy mornings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but Greek yogurt will provide a thicker consistency and higher protein content.

→ Are these bagels gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free self-rising flour to make these bagels gluten-free.

→ How do I store the bagels?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add other ingredients to the dough?

Absolutely! You can include shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or even spices for different flavors.