Protein Bagels With Italian Herbs

Name: Protein Bagels With Italian Herbs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup protein powder; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 tablespoon dried basil; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 3/4 cup warm water; 1 tablespoon honey or sugar; 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Inspired Kitchen

I absolutely love making Protein Bagels with Italian Herbs! They are a delightful twist on traditional bagels, packed with a protein punch that you can enjoy at any time of day. The combination of herbs not only infuses these bagels with flavor, but it also elevates them to a new level of deliciousness. Whether I'm slathering them with cream cheese, using them for a savory breakfast sandwich, or just enjoying them with a bit of butter, these bagels never disappoint. Plus, they are an excellent way to boost my protein intake along with a comforting carbohydrate that feels indulgent.

Created by

Vanessa Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-03-25T01:23:04.662Z

When I first started experimenting with bagels, I was amazed by how versatile they could be. By adding protein to the dough and incorporating vibrant Italian herbs, I discovered a way to make breakfast both nutritious and satisfying. It was thrilling to watch friends and family enjoy them and ask for seconds, proving that healthy doesn’t have to be bland.

One little tip I learned is to allow the shaped bagels to rise for a few minutes before boiling them. This helps them develop a better texture in the oven, giving you that perfect chewy crust while staying soft inside. I can confidently say these bagels have become a staple in my kitchen!

Why You'll Love These Bagels

High in protein to fuel your day
Fragrant Italian herbs add amazing flavor
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings

Crafting the Perfect Dough

The foundation of a great bagel lies in the dough's structure and texture. Combining all-purpose flour with protein powder not only increases the protein content but also affects the elasticity and chewiness of the bagels. Make sure to mix your dry ingredients thoroughly to avoid uneven flavor distribution. When adding the warm water mixed with honey or sugar, doing so gradually helps in achieving a smoother dough without over-hydrating it, which can lead to a sticky mess.

Kneading is a crucial step that shouldn't be rushed. Aim for about 5 minutes of kneading, which helps to develop the gluten. This is what gives the bagels their chewy texture. If you notice the dough is still tacky after kneading, lightly dust your surface with additional flour to help create a smoother consistency without compromising the hydration balance.

Mastering the Bagel Shape

Shaping the bagels requires a gentle touch to maintain the airiness of the dough. After rolling each piece into a ball, poke a hole through the center and gradually stretch it to create a classic bagel shape. If you're having trouble with the bagels losing their shape, consider letting them rest for a few minutes before reshaping. The resting time allows the gluten to relax, making them easier to handle.

An important tip is to ensure uniformity in size when dividing the dough. This can affect cooking times; smaller bagels will cook faster, while larger ones need longer in both the boiling and baking phases. Using a kitchen scale can help achieve this, ensuring that all your bagels meet the same delectable standard.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start making the bagels.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup protein powder
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 tablespoon garlic powder
3/4 cup warm water
1 tablespoon honey or sugar
1 egg (for egg wash)

Once you have everything, you're ready to start making delicious bagels!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create your protein-packed bagels.

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, protein powder, baking powder, salt, oregano, basil, and garlic powder. In a separate bowl, mix the warm water with honey or sugar until dissolved. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.

Knead and Shape

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and roll each piece into a ball. Make a hole in the center of each ball and gently stretch to form a bagel shape.

Arrange and Rise

Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let them rise in a warm place for about 15 minutes.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add the bagels in batches, cooking for about 2 minutes on each side. Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheet.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the bagels with beaten egg for a golden color. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Once they are baked, allow the bagels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a crispy outer layer, consider boiling the bagels in water with a splash of vinegar. It helps achieve that classic bagel texture!

Flavor Variations

While the Italian herbs in this recipe provide a wonderful flavor base, don't hesitate to get creative! You can swap in different herbs or seasonings according to your taste. For instance, adding fresh rosemary or thyme can provide a unique twist. Additionally, feel free to experiment with toppings, such as sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning, sprinkled onto the egg wash before baking for added texture and flavor.

If you're looking to reduce the carbs, consider using almond flour as a replacement for some of the all-purpose flour. Make sure to include a binding agent like psyllium husk to maintain structure. This alternative results in a gluten-free version while still retaining a pleasant bagel texture.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Protein Bagels store well at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider freezing them. Allow the bagels to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer bag. They can be reheated directly from the freezer; simply pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

For a filling breakfast, try slicing the bagels and adding an avocado spread or smoked salmon along with a sprinkle of capers. They also make an excellent base for sandwiches, so pile on your favorite deli meats and cheeses for a quick lunch. The flavor profile pairs beautifully with various spreads, from classic cream cheese to pesto, allowing for endless enjoyment throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, you can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. The bagels will have a denser texture.

→ How long do these bagels last?

They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

→ Can I freeze the bagels?

Absolutely! Freeze the bagels individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months.

→ What can I top these bagels with?

You can top them with cream cheese, avocado, smoked salmon, or any spread of your choice. They are delicious with any topping!