High Protein Bagels Meal Prep

Name: High Protein Bagels Meal Prep
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups bread flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup protein powder; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 1 tbsp honey; 1/4 cup warm water; 1 egg (for wash); Sesame seeds (optional)

Highlighted under: Light Kitchen Magic

I often find myself looking for nutritious options that are not only satisfying but also convenient for my busy days. That's why I love making these high-protein bagels for meal prep! They pack a punch with protein while being incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy them toasted with cream cheese or piled high with your favorite sandwich fillings, they give me the energy I need to tackle my day. Plus, they’re easy to make in batches, so I can have a healthy breakfast or snack ready at a moment’s notice.

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-10T20:37:36.383Z

When I first decided to make high-protein bagels, I was hesitant about how they would turn out. To my surprise, they came out fluffy and delicious! The key was using Greek yogurt and a combination of bread flour and protein powder, which helped maintain the bagel's traditional texture while boosting the protein content. I love to experiment with different toppings, too!

One tip I learned through this process is to steam the bagels during the final cooking stage. This creates that authentic chewy outer crust we all associate with bagels, making them truly irresistible. Trust me, once you try these, you'll want to make them part of your weekly meal prep!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with protein to fuel your day
Chewy texture that mimics your favorite bagels
Customizable with various toppings or fillings for any meal

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of bread flour and Greek yogurt is key to achieving the specific texture of these bagels. Bread flour has a higher protein content which contributes to the chewy, traditional bagel texture. Greek yogurt not only adds moisture but also increases the protein content, making these bagels a powerhouse of nutrition. When mixing, be mindful of the ratios; too much flour can lead to a dry bagel, while too little will make the dough too sticky to handle effectively.

The addition of protein powder is what elevates these bagels nutritionally. Opt for a flavorless whey or plant-based protein powder to maintain the bagel's taste integrity. This ingredient not only boosts the protein content but also contributes to the structural integrity of the dough. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can use a dairy-free yogurt or protein powder, just ensure they can provide a similar binding and moisture effect.

Incorporating honey not only enhances the flavor of the bagels but also creates a slightly glossy appearance post-baking. If you're looking for a suitable substitute, agave syrup or maple syrup works well, though these can alter the bagel's flavor profile slightly. However, be cautious to maintain the overall liquid balance in the dough by adjusting the added water accordingly.

Techniques for Perfect Bagels

Shaping the bagels is a crucial step that can determine their final appearance. When rolling the dough into ropes, aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. If you've never shaped bagels before, a simple trick is to poke a hole in the middle with your thumb, then expand it gently with your fingers to form a perfect circle. This helps create the iconic bagel shape and ensures even boiling and baking.

Boiling the bagels serves an essential purpose in their preparation. This step helps set the outer crust, creating a delicious chewy texture that's characteristic of traditional bagels. Be sure to keep the water at a rolling boil, and maintain the timing of one minute per side. This process not only enhances texture but also contributes to a lovely golden color once baked. If you find they’re becoming too puffy during boiling, reduce the boiling time slightly to keep them from expanding excessively.

Baking at the right temperature is essential for the bagels to achieve a golden brown finish. Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) is necessary to achieve the right heat distribution. Make sure to check on them during the last few minutes of baking; you're looking for a crisp exterior and a firm, chewy interior. If they don’t brown evenly, you can rotate the baking sheet halfway through to ensure all bagels develop that beautiful crust.

Ingredients

Bagels

2 cups bread flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/4 cup protein powder
1 tbsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp honey
1/4 cup warm water
1 egg (for wash)
Sesame seeds (optional)

Mix well to combine all ingredients until a dough forms.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, Greek yogurt, protein powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour gradually.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each piece into a rope about 6 inches long and join the ends to form a circle. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Boil the Bagels

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add honey. Gently drop in the bagels, boiling for 1 minute on each side. Remove and place back on the baking sheet.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the bagels with a beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Let cool before slicing. Enjoy with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different flavorings like cinnamon, garlic, or everything bagel seasoning in the dough for added variety.

Storing and Reheating

Storing these bagels properly is key to maintaining their freshness. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap each bagel in plastic wrap before placing them in a zip-top bag and freezing. When you're ready to enjoy a bagel, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to refresh it, allowing it to regain its chewy texture.

If you make a large batch, consider slicing them before freezing. Sliced bagels are perfect for quick breakfast options; just grab a piece, toast it, and top it with your favorite spread. This method also prevents the need to completely defrost the bagel, saving you time during busy mornings. Remember to use parchment paper between slices if stacking them in a container to avoid them sticking together.

For a unique storage solution, consider experimenting with different freezing methods. You can freeze the bagels in a vacuum-sealed bag to maintain optimal freshness. This method minimizes the exposure to air and prevents freezer burn. Just ensure they're completely cooled before vacuum sealing to avoid creating excess moisture in the bag.

Serving Suggestions

These high-protein bagels are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a quick breakfast, simply toast one and spread it with cream cheese mixed with herbs for a flavorful kick. You could also top it with avocado and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a nutritious morning boost. The base of the bagel pairs well with both sweet and savory toppings, allowing for creativity at breakfast or snack time.

For lunch, try transforming these bagels into hearty sandwiches. Layer with lean turkey or chicken breast, fresh spinach, and a slice of tomato for a refreshing meal. Alternatively, create a bagel sandwich with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and capers for an indulgent treat. These filling options provide you with sustained energy throughout the day and can easily fit into a meal-prep routine.

Don't hesitate to experiment with flavors by adding different toppings or fillings prior to baking. Consider adding minced garlic, shredded cheese, or herbs directly into the dough for a flavor-packed bagel. After boiling, you can brush the tops with your favorite seasonings, like everything bagel seasoning or Parmesan cheese, to elevate the taste. This versatility ensures each batch can be tailored to your preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, you can substitute half of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrients.

→ How should I store the bagels?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I add toppings before cooking?

Absolutely! You can add toppings like everything seasoning or seeds right before baking for extra flavor.

→ Are these suitable for freezing?

Yes, these bagels freeze exceptionally well. Just let them cool completely before placing them in a freezer bag.