Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels – Air Fryer Recipe

Who knew you could whip up homemade bagels in less than 20 minutes—with just 3 simple ingredients? These protein-packed bagels are soft, chewy, and delicious, and thanks to the magic of the air fryer, they come out golden on the outside while staying fluffy on the inside. Honestly, they taste so good you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with store-bought bagels.

Here’s the best part: these little gems are secretly high in protein thanks to cottage cheese, making them just as satisfying as they are delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a healthier bread option, these bagels check every box.

Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be making them on repeat.

Recipe Origin

These bagels are inspired by the viral “two-ingredient dough” trend, but with a protein-packed twist. Cottage cheese steps in as the star player, bringing extra protein and creaminess. By using the air fryer, you get that bakery-style crunch without turning on the oven. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a cheat code for eating better without sacrificing flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• Fork or spoon for mixing
• Air fryer
• Parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup)
• Pastry brush (if adding egg wash)

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Why You’ll Love Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels

Versatile

Perfect for breakfast, lunch sandwiches, or even as a base for mini pizzas.

Budget-Friendly

Made with kitchen staples—flour, baking powder, and cottage cheese. That’s it!

Quick and Easy

From start to finish, you’ll have warm, golden bagels in under 20 minutes.

High Protein

Thanks to cottage cheese, each bagel is more filling and nourishing than your average bagel.

Customizable

Top them with everything seasoning, sesame seeds, or even cinnamon sugar if you want something sweet.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Drain cottage cheese slightly. If it’s very watery, strain for a few minutes to avoid sticky dough.
• Don’t overmix. Stir until combined, but don’t knead too much or the bagels will be tough.
• Egg wash = bakery vibes. Brushing with beaten egg before air frying gives that shiny, golden finish.
• Use parchment in the air fryer. Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Ingredients in Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

All-Purpose Flour: The structure of the bagel—chewy and soft.
Baking Powder: The lift that keeps the bagels light and fluffy.
Salt (Optional): Brings out the flavor.
Cottage Cheese: The secret protein booster that makes these bagels creamy and filling.
Egg (Optional): Brushed on top for that golden, glossy bakery-style finish.
Toppings: Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds for flavor and crunch.

Instructions

Mix the Dough: In a bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, and salt (if using). Add cottage cheese and mix until a dough forms.

Shape the Bagels: Divide dough into 4 portions. Roll each into a rope and connect the ends to form a bagel shape.

Prepare for Air Fryer: Line the air fryer basket with parchment. Place bagels inside, leaving space between. Brush tops with beaten egg if using, then sprinkle with your favorite toppings.

Air Fry: Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 12–14 minutes, until golden brown.

Cool and Serve: Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing—or enjoy warm straight from the basket.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4 bagels
Calories per serving: ~120–140 (varies with toppings)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes

How to Serve Simple Protein Bagels

• Classic: Toast with cream cheese or butter.
• Sandwich-Style: Pile on turkey, avocado, and veggies for a healthy lunch.
• Breakfast: Add scrambled eggs and cheese for a protein-packed start.
• Sweet Treat: Spread with peanut butter and banana slices.
• Mini Pizzas: Top with marinara and mozzarella, then pop back in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make Ahead: Dough can be mixed and refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5.
• Freeze: Wrap cooled bagels and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or pop straight in the air fryer to refresh.

Variations to Try

• Cinnamon Sugar Bagels: Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before air frying.
• Garlic Parmesan Bagels: Mix garlic powder and parmesan into the dough.
• Herb Bagels: Add dried Italian herbs or dill to the flour for extra flavor.
• Whole Wheat: Swap half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly option.

Additional Tips

• Make sure your baking powder is fresh—old baking powder means flat bagels.
• If dough feels too sticky, add 1 tablespoon flour at a time until manageable.
• Slice bagels only once cooled slightly, or they may collapse.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I bake these instead of air frying?
A1: Yes! Bake at 375°F for 18–20 minutes.

Q2: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
A2: Yes, but the protein content will be lower and texture slightly different.

Q3: Do I need to drain the cottage cheese?
A3: If it’s very watery, yes—otherwise your dough may be too sticky.

Q4: Can I double the recipe?
A4: Absolutely! Just cook in batches in the air fryer.

Q5: How do I know when they’re done?
A5: They should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.

Q6: Can I skip the egg wash?
A6: Yes, but they won’t have the glossy, golden finish.

Q7: Do these taste like regular bagels?
A7: They’re slightly softer and less chewy, but delicious in their own right.

Q8: Can I make them dairy-free?
A8: Use dairy-free yogurt instead of cottage cheese, though texture will vary.

Q9: What’s the best topping combo?
A9: Everything bagel seasoning is classic, but sesame and poppy seeds are just as good.

Q10: Can I toast them after air frying?
A10: Definitely! Slice in half and pop into the toaster for extra crisp edges.

Conclusion

These Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels are proof that homemade doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick air fryer session, you’ll have warm, golden bagels that are both satisfying and high in protein. Perfect for busy mornings, healthy snacks, or meal prep, they’re as versatile as they are delicious.

Next time you’re craving bagels, skip the bakery run—trust me, these are a game-changer.

Learn how to make high-protein, 3-ingredient bagels in the air fryer: