Protein Bagels With Egg Whites

Name: Protein Bagels With Egg Whites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup high-protein flour; 1/2 cup egg whites (about 4 large egg whites); 1/4 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; Optional toppings (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning)

Highlighted under: Mindful Meal Ideas

I absolutely love making these Protein Bagels with Egg Whites because they are a nutritious and satisfying alternative to traditional bagels. The combination of egg whites and high-protein flour gives them a delightful texture and a boost of protein that keeps me full longer. They are perfect for breakfast or a midday snack, and I enjoy customizing them with various toppings. Additionally, they are surprisingly easy to make at home, and the aroma of freshly baked bagels is irresistible. Once you try them, you’ll want to make these every week!

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:17:35.701Z

I never thought I could make a bagel that was this healthy and still tasted amazing. My experimentation with egg whites led to the discovery of a unique method that allows for a light, airy texture while packing in the protein. By using a high-protein flour, I was able to create a dough that not only rises beautifully but also provides sustained energy throughout my busy day.

One specific tip I found really helpful was letting the dough rest for a few minutes before shaping. This makes it easier to handle. Plus, the resulting bagels are chewy on the outside yet soft on the inside. Trust me; the combination is a total game-changer!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with protein to fuel your day
Chewy on the outside and soft on the inside
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings

Perfecting the Dough

The dough for these Protein Bagels is quite forgiving and can be easily adapted to your preference. The high-protein flour plays a key role in providing structure and chewiness, distinguishing these bagels from their traditional counterparts. If you can’t find high-protein flour, you can substitute it with a blend of all-purpose flour and vital wheat gluten in a 2:1 ratio. This adjustment will ensure that you still achieve that sought-after texture while keeping the protein content high.

When combining the egg whites and Greek yogurt, I recommend whisking them until they're airy and evenly mixed. This step not only contributes to the bagels’ fluffiness but also ensures that the moisture is uniformly distributed throughout the dough, which is crucial for even baking. Pay attention to the texture; your dough should be slightly tacky but not overly sticky. If it feels too wet, adding small amounts of flour incrementally can help achieve the right consistency.

Baking Tips for Bagel Success

Baking these bagels at a consistent temperature of 375°F (190°C) is essential for achieving a golden brown crust while keeping the interior soft. As they bake, the steam escapes, creating that perfect chewy outside. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes of baking. Aim for a color change to a rich golden hue as a strong visual cue that they are done. If they need more browning, you can broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes; just watch carefully to avoid burning.

Once your bagels are out of the oven, letting them cool on a wire rack is important to maintain their texture. If you happen to have leftovers, they store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply slice the bagels in half and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy, a quick toast from frozen can bring them back to life.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start for a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients for Protein Bagels

1 cup high-protein flour
1/2 cup egg whites (about 4 large egg whites)
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
Optional toppings (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps closely for the best bagels.

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine high-protein flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg whites and Greek yogurt until well blended. Gradually add the liquid mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Lightly flour your working surface and knead the dough for a couple of minutes until smooth. Divide the dough into four equal pieces and shape each piece into a ring or bagel form.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the shaped bagels on a lined baking sheet and add your desired toppings. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the bagels cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy them toasted with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding herbs or spices into the dough before baking. A pinch of garlic powder can really elevate the taste!

Customizing Your Bagels

One of the joys of making your own Protein Bagels is the ability to customize them with various toppings. Try sprinkling sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or a generous layer of everything seasoning before baking. These toppings not only enhance the bagels visually but also add delightful flavor contrasts. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even experiment with cheese toppings or herbs for a unique twist. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly if you add heavier toppings to ensure they cook evenly.

For a sweeter bagel variation, consider adding herbs like rosemary or dill, which pair perfectly with cream cheese for a savory spread. Alternatively, mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the dough before shaping the bagels. These simple adjustments can transform your Protein Bagels into a gourmet experience without excessive effort.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your bagels don't rise as much as you'd expect, it could be an indication that your baking powder is old or not fresh. Always check the expiration date, and if in doubt, testing it by adding a teaspoon to warm water can help. A fresh batch should bubble vigorously. Additionally, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately to avoid affecting the dough consistency, which can impact the rise.

Another common concern is a soggy interior. To combat this, ensure your dough is kneaded just until smooth, and avoid overmixing once the wet and dry ingredients are combined. If the bagels are still too dense, consider adding an extra tablespoon of Greek yogurt to improve moisture without adding too much weight. This can help to lighten the final product while still keeping the protein content up.

Questions About Recipes

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

While you can use regular flour, it may decrease the protein content and alter the texture slightly.

→ How should I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I add toppings to the dough?

Yes, you can mix in toppings like garlic powder or chopped herbs directly into the dough for added flavor.

→ Are these bagels gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free high-protein flour, then yes, you can make gluten-free protein bagels!