A delightful aroma wafts through the kitchen as I pop these high-protein gluten-free bagel bites into the air fryer. In just 15 minutes, I know I’ll have tender, fluffy morsels ready to satisfy my craving for a quick snack. These bites are not only incredibly easy to make but also pack a nutritional punch, making them perfect for busy days or post-workout refuels. With a creamy surprise in the middle and a sprinkle of everything seasoning on top, each bite feels like a little celebration. Whether you’re rushing out the door or enjoying a lazy morning at home, these bagel bites can lend a hand in making your protein goals not just achievable, but downright delicious. Excited to whip some up? Let’s dive into the recipe that’s about to transform your snacking game!
Why will you crave these bagel bites?
Quick, Effortless Delight: These high-protein bagel bites can be made in just 15 minutes, taking the stress out of snack time. Healthy Indulgence: With approximately 8g of protein and only 95 calories per bite, they fit seamlessly into any wellness journey. Pleasantly Creamy: The rich cream cheese center adds a delicious surprise, making every mouthful a joy. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite flavors or stick to gluten-free for a tailored treat. If you’re on the lookout for more high-protein recipes, don’t miss our High Protein Beef for meal ideas or the wholesome Breakfast Burrito High for your mornings!
High-Protein Bagel Bites Ingredients
• Ready to create something delicious? Here’s what you’ll need!
For the Dough
- Gluten-Free Flour – Guarantees a fluffy texture; opt for a blend with xanthan gum for best results.
- Baking Powder – This secret ingredient provides the rise you need; make sure it’s fresh for maximum lift.
- Unflavored Protein Powder – Boost your snack’s protein content; choose unflavored to keep the taste balanced.
- Plain Unsweetened Greek Yogurt – Adds both moisture and protein; use thick yogurt to achieve the best texture.
For the Filling
- Cream Cheese – A creamy treasure in each bite; block-style works best when chilled.
For the Topping
- Everything But The Bagel Seasoning – Infuses authentic bagel flavor; don’t skimp—generously sprinkle it on top!
- Egg (optional) – Best for an egg wash; gives your bites a shiny, appealing finish and helps the seasoning stick.
Embrace the joys of wholesome snacking with these high-protein bagel bites!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for High-Protein Bagel Bites
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your high-protein bagel bites cook evenly and develop a lovely golden-brown crust. While the air fryer heats up, gather your mixing bowls and other equipment for a smooth cooking experience.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine gluten-free flour, baking powder, unflavored protein powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well combined and free of lumps. The mixture should have a light, airy appearance that signals it’s ready for the next step in creating these delicious bites.
Step 3: Incorporate Greek Yogurt
Add the plain unsweetened Greek yogurt to your dry mixture. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the yogurt into the flour blend to form a sticky dough. This process should take a minute or two, and as you mix, you will notice the dough becoming cohesive and beginning to pull away from the sides of the bowl.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Once your dough has come together, divide it into 10 equal pieces, roughly 30 grams each. Roll each piece into a smooth ball, ensuring they’re uniform in size for even cooking. The dough should feel slightly tacky, which is perfect for achieving that desired chewy texture in your high-protein bagel bites.
Step 5: Prepare for Filling
Take each dough ball and gently flatten it in your palm to form a small disc. Create a small indentation in the center of each disc to hold about 1 teaspoon of cream cheese. This step is crucial as it will ensure the creamy filling is perfectly encased when you fold the dough over.
Step 6: Seal the Bagel Bites
Carefully fold the dough around the cream cheese filling and pinch the edges to seal. This will create your bite-sized bagel shape, ensuring the creamy center stays inside during cooking. Repeat this process until all dough balls are filled, making sure they are neatly sealed for optimal results.
Step 7: Add Egg Wash or Oil
Brush the tops of your filled bagel bites with a beaten egg (if using) or lightly spray them with oil. This step is important for achieving a beautiful, shiny finish. Next, generously sprinkle Everything But The Bagel seasoning on top to add flavor and that quintessential bagel crunch.
Step 8: Air Fry the Bagel Bites
Place the prepared bagel bites in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one to allow for even air circulation. Air fry the bites for 5-6 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fluffy. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time, as they will continue to cook a bit once removed from the fryer.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once the air fryer timer goes off, carefully remove the bagel bites and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. This helps them retain their fluffy texture. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of a chewy exterior and a creamy, delicious center that makes these high-protein bagel bites such a crowd-pleasing snack.
What to Serve with High-Protein Bagel Bites
Elevate your snacking experience by pairing these delightful bites with fresh, flavorful accompaniments that will dazzle your taste buds.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and a refreshing contrast to the creamy bagel bites.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered with berries and granola, this parfait complements the protein-packed bites perfectly without overwhelming their flavors.
- Veggie Sticks and Hummus: Crunchy carrots, bell peppers, and celery dipped in hummus offer a satisfying crunch alongside your warm bagel bites.
- Protein Smoothie: A fruity smoothie is a great way to boost your protein intake while enjoying the flavors of your bagel bites. Blend fruits with a scoop of protein powder for a delicious treat.
- Zesty Dip: Try a tangy tzatziki or herbed yogurt dip for a creamy, refreshing contrast that enhances the savory flavors of the bagel bites.
- Cheddar Cheese Platter: Add slices of sharp cheddar cheese to bring a rich, bold flavor that complements the subtle sweetness of the bites.
Each of these pairings offers diverse textures, flavors, and nutrients, rounding out a satisfying meal or snack time that you’ll look forward to!
Expert Tips for High-Protein Bagel Bites
- Weigh Ingredients: Use a kitchen scale for precision in dough portions, ensuring uniform size and even cooking of your high-protein bagel bites.
- Fresh Baking Powder: Always check that your baking powder is fresh; stale baking powder may lead to dense bites that lack proper rise.
- Adjust Stickiness: If your dough is too sticky, try straining the Greek yogurt or adding a bit more gluten-free flour for the right consistency.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep a close eye during air frying; the bites can continue to cook and firm up after being removed, risking over-baking.
- Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to explore different fillings or seasonings; adding herbs or spices can elevate your high-protein bagel bites to new flavor dimensions.
High-Protein Bagel Bites Variations
Get ready to explore delightful twists to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute Greek yogurt with thick coconut yogurt for a creamy, non-dairy option.
- Flour Swap: Use regular all-purpose flour instead of gluten-free if you don’t need to adhere to gluten-free diets; adjust quantity as needed for consistency.
- Sweet Twist: Add cinnamon and raisins to the dough for a sweet breakfast treat that’s still high in protein.
- Savory Herbs: Mix in fresh herbs such as chives or dill to the dough for a savory kick that compliments the bagel flavor beautifully.
- Spice it Up: Incorporate jalapeño or crushed red pepper into the filling for a spicy version—perfect if you like a little heat.
- Veggie Boost: Fold in finely chopped spinach or your favorite greens into the dough for extra nutrients and a pop of color.
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Swap cream cheese for goat cheese or feta for added tanginess and a delicious flavor profile.
- Nutty Flavor: Add chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds to the dough for additional crunch and a nutty twist, creating a more complex texture.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to find your perfect blend! And for more great recipes, be sure to check out the protein-packed High Protein Beef for a hearty meal, or start your day right with a tasty Breakfast Burrito High!
Make Ahead Options
These high-protein bagel bites are a fantastic solution for busy home cooks looking to save time during their week! You can prepare the dough and fill the bagel bites up to 24 hours in advance. Just shape the bites, seal them, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their delightful texture, ensure they are well-sealed to prevent drying. When you’re ready to serve, simply air fry them straight from the fridge for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Alternatively, you can freeze the un-cooked bagel bites for up to 3 months; just thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, homemade high-protein bagel bites with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze High-Protein Bagel Bites
Fridge: Store leftover bagel bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Freezer: These high-protein bagel bites freeze well for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, remove excess air, and seal tightly.
Reheating: To reheat, microwave from the fridge for about 30 seconds, or air fry from frozen at 350°F for 4-5 minutes until warmed through.
Wrapping: For the best results, ensure your bagel bites are fully cooled before wrapping to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess.
High-Protein Bagel Bites Recipe FAQs
What type of gluten-free flour should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. This will help create that fluffy texture that everyone loves without any grittiness. Avoid blends that don’t contain xanthan gum, as it may affect the rise and overall outcome of your high-protein bagel bites.
How should I store leftover bagel bites?
It’s super easy! Just place your leftover bagel bites in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They make for a perfect grab-and-go snack or a quick bite during your busy days.
Can I freeze these bagel bites?
Definitely! These high-protein bagel bites freeze exceptionally well. To freeze, make sure they are completely cool, then place them in a freezer-safe bag, remove as much air as possible, and seal tightly. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat frozen bagel bites?
Reheating is simple! For frozen bagel bites, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook them from frozen for about 4-5 minutes until they are warmed through and crispy. If you’re using leftovers from the fridge, simply microwave them for about 30 seconds.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough too sticky while preparing, don’t worry! You can adjust by straining your Greek yogurt to make it thicker or gradually incorporating more gluten-free flour until you reach the right consistency. Folding in a little flour will help you achieve that perfect texture without compromising flavor.
Are these bagel bites allergy-friendly?
These high-protein bagel bites can be made allergy-friendly with a few adjustments. For a dairy-free option, simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a thick coconut yogurt. Be sure to check the labels of your gluten-free flour and seasoning to avoid any allergens you or your guests may have.
High-Protein Bagel Bites for Quick, Guilt-Free Snacking
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine gluten-free flour, baking powder, unflavored protein powder, and salt.
- Add the plain unsweetened Greek yogurt to your dry mixture and fold to form a sticky dough.
- Divide the dough into 10 equal pieces and roll into smooth balls.
- Flatten each ball to form a disc and create an indentation for the cream cheese.
- Fold the dough around the cream cheese and pinch the edges to seal.
- Brush tops with beaten egg or oil and sprinkle with seasoning.
- Air fry the bagel bites for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
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