Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels – Air Fryer Recipe: The Ultimate Healthy Breakfast and Snack

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s not always easy to find time for a healthy and filling breakfast or snack. But what if you could make a delicious, high-protein bagel with just three ingredients in your air fryer? The Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels recipe is here to save the day! These protein snacks air fryer style are not only incredibly easy to make, but they’re also nutritious and diet-friendly. Whether you’re looking for easy prep breakfast ideas healthy or just a satisfying bite, this recipe has you covered.

Let’s dive into the details of these 3 ingredient gluten free bagels, a protein-packed treat that’s perfect for anyone looking to boost their protein intake. With the help of your air fryer, you’ll create a warm, delicious bagel that’s great for baking for the week or a quick snack any time of day.

Why Try This 3 Ingredient Protein Bagel Recipe?

This simple recipe is designed to offer convenience without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Many traditional bagels are loaded with carbs and lack the protein content you need to start your day strong. These 3 ingredient bagels with cottage cheese offer a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Thanks to cottage cheese, you get a hefty dose of protein while keeping the bagel light and airy.

Additionally, this recipe is gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions. It’s also a wonderful alternative to traditional bagels, providing a more diet-friendly recipe without compromising on taste or texture. And, with only three ingredients, the preparation is a breeze!

What You Need for Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels

For these protein blueberry bagels (optional twist), you’ll only need the following ingredients:

1. Cottage Cheese – Cottage cheese is the star of the show in this recipe. It’s an excellent source of protein, low in fat, and full of beneficial probiotics that help support digestion. This will also serve as the binding agent in the dough, ensuring your bagels stay together perfectly.
2. Egg – The egg adds structure and moisture to the dough, helping the bagels rise and bake evenly. It’s another source of protein that helps boost the nutritional value of your bagels.
3. Gluten-Free Self-Raising Flour – If you’re following a gluten-free diet, make sure to use gluten-free flour. You can find gluten-free self-raising flour, or you can substitute it with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The self-raising flour gives the bagels their chewy texture and slight rise, similar to traditional bagels.

These three ingredients work together harmoniously to create a soft and chewy bagel that is perfect for topping with your favorite spreads, such as nut butter, avocado, or even just a sprinkle of salt.

How to Make 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels in the Air Fryer

Making protein-packed bagels in the air fryer is incredibly easy and convenient. The air fryer allows for crispy edges and a fluffy interior without needing to boil the bagels, as you would in traditional bagel-making methods. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make your protein snacks air fryer style:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
• 1 large egg
• 1 ¼ cups gluten-free self-raising flour (or 1:1 gluten-free flour blend)

Optional:

• ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries (for protein blueberry bagels)
• Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Before you start, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your air fryer reaches the optimal temperature for baking the bagels.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese and egg. Use a fork or whisk to mix them together until smooth. Add the gluten-free flour to the mixture and stir until a dough forms. You should be able to shape the dough with your hands without it being too sticky. If you prefer a little sweetness, you can gently fold in some blueberries at this point for protein blueberry bagels.
3. Shape the Bagels: Once the dough is ready, divide it into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then use your fingers to poke a hole in the center, shaping the dough into a bagel. You can also flatten the dough slightly to achieve the typical bagel shape.
4. Air Fry the Bagels: Place the shaped bagels into the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once the bagels are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes. If you want to add a little extra flavor, sprinkle them with sesame seeds or poppy seeds. Slice them open and serve with your favorite toppings, such as cream cheese, peanut butter, or avocado.

Why These 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels Are a Game Changer

The beauty of this gluten-free high-protein bagels recipe is its simplicity and versatility. Here are a few reasons why these bagels are a must-try:

• Easy Prep Breakfast Ideas Healthy: With just three ingredients, these bagels are quick and simple to prepare. Whether you’re making them in the morning for breakfast or prepping them for the week ahead, they make for an easy prep breakfast idea that’s both nutritious and filling.
• Great for Baking for the Week: If you’re looking to bake for the week, these protein bagels store well in an airtight container. You can make a batch ahead of time and have a quick, protein-packed breakfast or snack ready whenever you need it.
• High in Protein: Unlike traditional bagels that are typically low in protein, these bagels are packed with cottage cheese and egg, providing a substantial amount of protein. This makes them an ideal choice for anyone looking to increase their protein intake, especially after workouts or as part of a balanced meal plan.
• Gluten-Free: If you’re on a gluten-free diet, you can easily substitute the regular flour for a gluten-free option to enjoy a delicious, gluten-free high-protein bagel. These bagels are a great addition to any gluten-free menu, offering a flavorful alternative to traditional bagels.
• Versatile and Customizable: These bagels are highly customizable. If you prefer a sweet version, you can fold in some fresh or frozen berries to make protein blueberry bagels. You can also add spices like cinnamon or even a bit of honey to give them a sweet twist. The possibilities are endless!
• Diet Friendly: Whether you’re following a low-carb, gluten-free, or high-protein diet, these bagels fit the bill. They are free from refined sugars and unhealthy fats, making them a great diet-friendly recipe that can be enjoyed by anyone.

Tips for Success

While this recipe is straightforward, here are a few tips to ensure you get the best results every time:

• Use Full-Fat Cottage Cheese: For a creamier and more flavorful bagel, use full-fat cottage cheese. If you prefer a lighter version, low-fat cottage cheese will work too.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: When mixing the ingredients, be gentle and avoid overworking the dough. Overworking can lead to dense bagels instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Customize with Add-Ins: Feel free to experiment with different add-ins. Chopped herbs like chives, garlic, or even some shredded cheese can be mixed into the dough for extra flavor. You can also experiment with various toppings once the bagels are baked.
• Storage: Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage and toast them when you’re ready to eat.

Conclusion

These Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels are a game-changer when it comes to easy, healthy, and delicious breakfast options. Whether you’re preparing them for the week or making a fresh batch in your air fryer, these bagels provide a satisfying balance of protein and flavor. They are diet-friendly, gluten-free, and a perfect option for anyone looking for a high-protein, low-carb snack or meal. Try them today and discover how easy it is to enjoy a nutritious and filling breakfast or snack in no time!

With just a few ingredients and an air fryer, you can create a batch of delicious, protein-packed treats that will keep you fueled throughout the day.