High Protein Bagels For Meal Prep
Highlighted under: Balanced Plate
I love starting my day with a satisfying, protein-packed meal, and these High Protein Bagels are a game changer! They not only fuel me through my busy mornings but also make for a great snack any time of day. I’ve experimented with various toppings—cream cheese, avocado, or even a simple spread of peanut butter. Each bagel is a sturdy base that holds its own against any toppings I throw at it, and the best part is that they are super easy to batch and freeze for later enjoyment.
When I first decided to make High Protein Bagels, I was skeptical if I could create a bread-like texture that was both hearty and satisfying. However, after trying a few different flours and combinations, I found a blend that works beautifully—high-protein flour gives these bagels their chewy texture! I also added Greek yogurt for extra moisture and protein, which turned out to be the secret ingredient.
These bagels are perfect for meal prep because they freeze exceptionally well. When I'm in a rush, I just pop one in the toaster, and it's ready to enjoy in minutes. I've made a variety of flavors, such as everything bagels and cinnamon raisin, to keep breakfast exciting. You can’t beat the convenience and taste!
Why You'll Love These Bagels
- Packed with protein to keep you full for longer
- Customizable flavors to suit every taste
- Perfect for meal prepping and freezing
Understanding High-Protein Flour
High-protein flour is a key ingredient in these bagels, providing the structure and chewiness that we associate with traditional bagels. Unlike all-purpose flour, which typically contains around 10-12% protein, high-protein flour can have levels as high as 14-15%. This extra protein helps trap air during the baking process, resulting in a delightful texture. Choosing the right flour ensures that your bagels have the perfect balance of softness on the inside while remaining sturdy enough for toppings.
If you can't find high-protein flour, consider using a blend of whole wheat flour and vital wheat gluten. This combination can mimic the higher protein content and still yield a deliciously textured bagel. Aim for about 1 cup of whole wheat flour mixed with 2 tablespoons of vital wheat gluten to achieve that desired strength in your dough.
Perfecting the Bagel Shape
Shaping your bagels correctly is crucial for an even bake and a good rise. While poking a hole through the center of the dough, ensure it is wide enough to prevent sealing during baking. If the hole closes, you'll end up with more of a roll than a bagel! A 1 to 1.5-inch diameter hole is ideal for achieving that classic bagel shape.
To achieve evenly shaped bagels, use a kitchen scale to divide the dough into equal portions. Weighing each piece to around 4 ounces promotes uniformity and takes the guesswork out of the shaping process. This not only makes for a visually appealing batch but also ensures that they all bake at the same rate.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your delicious bagels.
High Protein Bagel Ingredients
- 2 cups high-protein flour
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning
Make sure to have all these ingredients prepped before you start.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your High Protein Bagels.
Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the high-protein flour, Greek yogurt, baking powder, salt, and honey/agave. Mix until a dough forms. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour until it reaches a manageable consistency.
Shape the Bagels
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and divide it into six equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center to form a bagel shape. Make sure the hole is big enough to prevent it from closing while baking.
Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over each bagel to give them a shiny golden finish. Sprinkle your desired toppings on top.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Enjoy your freshly made High Protein Bagels!
Pro Tips
- For even more protein, consider adding cooked quinoa or seeds to the dough mix.
Storage and Freezing Tips
These High Protein Bagels are perfect for meal prep and can be refrigerated or frozen for future breakfasts or snacks. If you plan to store them, allow the bagels to cool completely on a wire rack before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess and spoilage.
For freezing, individually wrap each cooled bagel in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply toast them directly from frozen until heated through and slightly crispy—about 5-8 minutes at 375°F (190°C) works well!
Flavor Variations
One of the best parts about making your own bagels is the ability to customize flavors to your liking. For a savory twist, try adding herbs like rosemary or garlic powder directly into the dough mix. If you're a fan of sweet bagels, consider incorporating cinnamon and nutmeg into the basic dough, then top them with a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking for an extra sweet touch.
Experiment with toppings as well—consider mixing your own "everything bagel" seasoning at home with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onion, and garlic. This offers a delightful contrast to the protein-rich base and elevates your eating experience. Just remember to apply the toppings right after the egg wash, so they adhere properly during the baking process.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular flour instead of high-protein flour?
Yes, but the texture and protein content will differ. High-protein flour creates a denser, chewier bagel.
→ How do I store these bagels for meal prep?
Let them cool completely, then store in a zip-top bag in the freezer for up to three months. Toast from frozen for best results.
→ Can I add flavors to the dough?
Absolutely! Add herbs, spices, or other flavorings right into the dough for variety.
→ What can I use as a topping?
Great options include sesame seeds, poppy seeds, flaky sea salt, or everything seasoning for extra flavor.
High Protein Bagels For Meal Prep
I love starting my day with a satisfying, protein-packed meal, and these High Protein Bagels are a game changer! They not only fuel me through my busy mornings but also make for a great snack any time of day. I’ve experimented with various toppings—cream cheese, avocado, or even a simple spread of peanut butter. Each bagel is a sturdy base that holds its own against any toppings I throw at it, and the best part is that they are super easy to batch and freeze for later enjoyment.
What You'll Need
High Protein Bagel Ingredients
- 2 cups high-protein flour
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning
How-To Steps
In a large mixing bowl, combine the high-protein flour, Greek yogurt, baking powder, salt, and honey/agave. Mix until a dough forms. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour until it reaches a manageable consistency.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and divide it into six equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center to form a bagel shape. Make sure the hole is big enough to prevent it from closing while baking.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over each bagel to give them a shiny golden finish. Sprinkle your desired toppings on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Extra Tips
- For even more protein, consider adding cooked quinoa or seeds to the dough mix.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 14g