Protein Bagels With Poppy Seeds

Name: Protein Bagels With Poppy Seeds
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups almond flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon poppy seeds; Water; 2 tablespoons honey or sugar

Highlighted under: Golden Crust & Crumbs

I love starting my day with a boost of energy, and these Protein Bagels with Poppy Seeds are my go-to breakfast choice. They are not only delicious but also packed with protein and healthy fats, which keeps me satisfied for hours. Making them from scratch is simpler than I ever imagined, and the addition of poppy seeds gives these bagels a delightful crunch. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you so you can enjoy these nutritious bagels as part of your morning routine.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-02-16T11:25:37.200Z

When I first attempted to make bagels at home, I was surprised at how enjoyable the process was. Kneading the dough and shaping each bagel felt rewarding, and the aroma that filled the kitchen was simply irresistible. The poppy seeds not only add texture but also contribute to the overall flavor, making every bite satisfying.

What I found particularly helpful was boiling the bagels before baking, as this locks in moisture and creates a chewy crust that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy interior. It’s definitely a step worth taking, and it truly elevates the homemade experience.

Why You'll Love These Bagels
High in protein to fuel your day
Fresh and chewy with a perfect poppy-seed crunch
Versatile base for toppings like cream cheese or avocado

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Protein Bagels is almond flour, which provides a delightful nuttiness and a lower carbohydrate count than traditional wheat flour. It’s crucial to use finely ground almond flour for a smoother texture; coarsely ground versions can lead to a gritty bagel. Additionally, Greek yogurt adds moisture and protein, ensuring the bagels don’t dry out during baking. The combination of these two ingredients creates a chewy bite that's still satisfying to the palate.

Using eggs not only helps bind the ingredients but also contributes to the overall protein content, enhancing the nutritional profile of your morning meal. The baking powder provides the necessary lift, ensuring the bagels don’t turn out dense, while the poppy seeds introduce a delightful crunch and a subtle, nutty flavor. Each ingredient plays a critical role in achieving the perfect bagel texture and taste, so be sure to measure accurately.

Boiling for Texture

Boiling your bagels before baking is an essential step that enhances their texture. The honey or sugar in the boiling water not only helps achieve a beautifully glossy crust but also adds a hint of sweetness. Aim for a rolling boil as you drop in the bagels; maintaining this heat ensures an even cooking process. Boil each bagel for a minute on each side—when they puff up and float, that’s a good sign they're ready to come out.

If you're worried about the bagels sticking together, make sure to give them enough space while boiling. You can batch them if needed, but try not to crowd the pot. This step significantly impacts the final texture, creating that signature chewy bagel crust while allowing the inside to remain soft. For a variation, consider adding a splash of baking soda to the boiling water for an even chewier outer layer.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Once baked to a golden brown, these bagels can be served in various ways. They pair wonderfully with cream cheese, smashed avocado, or even a poached egg for a complete breakfast. If you prefer a sweet touch, try spreading almond butter and sprinkling some cinnamon on top. Experimenting with different toppings allows you to enjoy these bagels in various ways throughout the week.

If you find yourself with leftover bagels, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature or in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze them individually by wrapping each bagel tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. When you're ready to eat, simply pop them in a toaster or oven to rewarm; they'll taste fresh as ever. This makes meal prep a breeze, ensuring your mornings are always delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups almond flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon poppy seeds

For Boiling

Water
2 tablespoons honey or sugar

Once you have all the ingredients, you are ready to make these delicious bagels!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Protein Bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine almond flour, Greek yogurt, eggs, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more almond flour.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then create a hole in the center with your thumb, shaping it into a bagel.

Prepare for Boiling

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add honey or sugar. Gently drop the bagels into the boiling water, cooking for 1 minute on each side.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the boiled bagels on a lined baking sheet, sprinkle with poppy seeds, and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Allow the bagels to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, try seasoning the bagels with garlic powder or sesame seeds before baking. Store leftover bagels in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels turn out too dense, it could be a sign that either the dough was overmixed or there was too little baking powder. Be gentle when combining the ingredients, just enough to bring them into a cohesive dough. Ensure you use a full tablespoon of baking powder to achieve the right lift. If you find your dough too sticky, gradually add small amounts of almond flour until you can handle it without it sticking to your hands.

Another potential hiccup is if the bagels flatten out while boiling. This can happen if the dough isn’t well-shaped or if the boiling water isn’t at a sufficient temperature. Always wait for the water to reach a rolling boil, and try to ensure that each bagel retains a nice round shape with a healthy hole in the middle during the shaping process.

Flavor Variations to Try

For a twist on the classic flavor, consider incorporating herbs or spices into the dough. Ingredients like garlic powder, onion powder, or dried oregano can elevate the savory profiles of your bagels. You can also experiment with different seeds on top; sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning can bring exciting new flavors. Just be mindful of the bake time, as additional toppings may slightly affect the cooking process.

If you prefer a sweeter option, add a touch of honey directly into the dough or fold in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. This addition can create a delightful contrast when topped with creamy cheese or nut butter, making for a great afternoon snack as well as breakfast. Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these bagels!

Scaling the Recipe

Should you wish to make a larger batch of Protein Bagels, simply double or triple the ingredients while keeping the proportions consistent. When scaling, consider the size of your mixing bowl; you need enough space to bring everything together. This is particularly important when mixing larger amounts of dough, as you want to avoid overworking it, which could lead to denser bagels.

Additionally, make sure your baking sheets have enough room to accommodate all the bagels without touching. If you have limited oven space, you can bake the batches in succession. Just keep an eye on timing, as the first batch may bake a minute or two less than the second, so check for that perfect golden brown color!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour, but the texture will differ since almond flour is lighter.

→ How long do these bagels stay fresh?

Homemade bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Absolutely! Once cooled, place them in a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Just toast them right from the freezer when you're ready to eat.

→ Are these bagels gluten-free?

Yes, these bagels are gluten-free because they use almond flour instead of regular wheat flour.