Protein Bagels With Sesame Crust

Name: Protein Bagels With Sesame Crust
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups high-protein flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 egg; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup sesame seeds (for topping)

Highlighted under: Fresh Kitchen Favorites

I absolutely love making these protein bagels with a delicious sesame crust! The combination of high-protein ingredients and the nutty flavor of sesame seeds makes these bagels not only filling but also satisfying. They are perfect for breakfast or as a post-workout snack. I usually whip up a batch on the weekends, and they freeze beautifully, allowing me to enjoy them all week long. Once you've tried them, you'll find it hard to go back to store-bought bagels!

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-02-16T07:45:36.998Z

Making these protein bagels was a bit of an experiment for me. I wanted to create something that packed a nutritional punch without sacrificing flavor. The first batch was a little dense, but after adjusting the flour ratio and playing around with the mixing method, I finally achieved the perfect texture - chewy on the outside and soft inside.

What makes these bagels special is the sesame crust. I learned that toasting the sesame seeds before adding them to the top gives a deep, nutty flavor and an appealing crunch. Trust me, you won’t want to skip this step; it truly elevates the whole bagel experience!

Why You Will Love These Bagels
High in protein to keep you feeling full longer
Nutty sesame crust adds a delightful crunch
Versatile for any meal - top them with your favorite spreads

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these protein bagels lies in the high-protein flour and Greek yogurt. High-protein flour enhances the bagels' structure, making them chewy yet satisfying. Greek yogurt not only adds protein but also contributes moisture, resulting in a tender crumb. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using a high-protein gluten-free flour blend, but be aware that you may need to adjust the liquids slightly.

Honey serves a dual purpose in this recipe: it sweetens the dough while also helping to achieve a golden crust during baking. If you're aiming for a sugar-free option, you can replace honey with agave syrup or a sugar-free alternative, although the flavor profile will shift slightly.

Tips for Perfect Shaping

When shaping your bagels, it’s crucial to ensure the hole in the center is large enough, as it can shrink during baking. Gently stretch the dough using your fingers, aiming for a diameter of about 1.5 inches. If you find the dough is difficult to shape or overly sticky, a dusting of additional flour can help. Just be careful not to add too much, or the bagels may become tough.

For a more uniform appearance, you can weigh each piece of dough before shaping. This ensures that your bagels will bake at the same rate. A kitchen scale is an invaluable tool for this, and it’s a step I find particularly helpful when making larger batches.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your protein-packed bagels:

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups high-protein flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 egg
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup sesame seeds (for topping)

Mix these ingredients together for the perfect bagel dough!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your protein bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the high-protein flour, Greek yogurt, egg, honey, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for a few minutes until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center to shape it into a bagel. Gently stretch the hole to make it larger.

Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a little water and sprinkle the sesame seeds generously on top.

Bake the Bagels

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, until golden brown and the bagels sound hollow when tapped.

Cool and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack. Enjoy your protein bagels fresh or store them in the freezer for later!

These steps will guide you through making delicious, protein-rich bagels!

Pro Tips

For a variation, you can mix in other seeds like poppy or chia seeds for added nutrition and flavor. Also, consider adding herbs or spices to the dough for a unique twist.

Storage and Freezing

Once your bagels have cooled completely, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, for longer storage, freezing is your best option. I recommend wrapping each bagel in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months and quickly reheated in the toaster or oven when you're ready to enjoy them.

If you prefer a softer texture when reheating, wrap the bagel in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This adds moisture back into the bagel, making it wonderfully chewy rather than crispy.

Serving Ideas and Variations

These protein bagels are incredibly versatile; try topping them with your favorite spreads. Cream cheese, avocado, or even hummus are excellent choices. For a delicious variation, consider adding herbs or spices to the dough, such as garlic powder or dried onions, for a savory twist. You could also incorporate seeds like poppy or flax for added texture and nutrition.

If you're feeling adventurous, mix in ingredients like grated cheese or sun-dried tomatoes directly into the dough before shaping. These additions will infuse the bagels with more flavor, making them unique. Keep in mind that if you add wet ingredients, you may need to adjust the overall liquid ratios to maintain the right dough consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular flour instead of high-protein flour?

Yes, but the texture may be different and less chewy.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I add toppings besides sesame?

Absolutely! Try everything seasoning, grated cheese, or even seeds like flax for a tasty variation.

→ What can I serve these bagels with?

They pair well with cream cheese, avocado, or even peanut butter for a post-workout snack.