Boiled And Baked Protein Bagels

Name: Boiled And Baked Protein Bagels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup warm water; 2 teaspoons sugar; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 tablespoon active dry yeast; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup protein powder; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Water; 1 tablespoon baking soda

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Favorites

I’ve always been a fan of bagels, but I wanted to boost their nutritional value while maintaining that chewy texture we all love. After several trials, I discovered that boiling them before baking creates the perfect crust and chewy inside. These protein bagels are not only simple to make but also packed with protein, making them ideal for breakfast or a snack. They have quickly become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share this delightful recipe with you!

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-10T21:37:36.079Z

When I first attempted to make these protein bagels, I was unsure if boiling them would be worth the effort. However, the result was spectacular! The bagels retained a wonderful chewiness, and their appearance was just like those from my favorite bakery. It's fascinating how the boiling step creates that classic bagel texture, sealing in the flavor and moisture.

One tip I’d like to share is to let the dough rest for a short period before shaping your bagels. This allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to mold them without losing their shape. Once baked, they come out with a golden-brown crust that’s irresistible!

Why You Will Love These Bagels
High in protein to keep you full longer
Perfectly chewy with a delightful crust
Easy enough for beginners yet impressive

Understanding Dough Consistency

Achieving the right dough consistency is crucial for perfect bagels. The mixture should be slightly tacky but not overly sticky. If it adheres too much to your hands, sprinkle in a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. The dough should spring back when poked lightly, indicating that gluten has developed properly. This texture is key to attaining the desired chewy bite in the final bagels.

When you let the dough rest, cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to shape the bagels. I like to use a warm area in my kitchen, such as near the oven, to help the dough rise effectively. If your kitchen is cold, placing the dough in an oven that’s turned off but still warm can help achieve a perfect rise.

Tips for Perfectly Shaped Bagels

Shaping the bagels correctly contributes to not only their visual appeal but also their texture. After dividing the dough, roll each piece into a smooth ball before poking a hole in the center with your finger. You can then gently stretch the hole to form a perfect ring. Ensure the hole is not too small, as it will close up during boiling and baking. Aim for about a 2-inch diameter when shaping.

Additionally, letting the bagels rest for at least 10 minutes will help the gluten relax and reduce elasticity, ensuring they maintain their shape after boiling. If you're making these bagels in advance, you can refrigerate the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined tray for a few hours before boiling and baking, which can enhance their flavor as they undergo a slow fermentation.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Bagels

1 cup warm water
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup protein powder
1 tablespoon olive oil

For Boiling

Water
1 tablespoon baking soda

Mix all dry ingredients together, then combine with wet ingredients to form the dough.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Add in salt, flour, protein powder, and olive oil, and knead until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces and shape each into a bagel by forming a ring. Let them rest for 10 minutes.

Boil the Bagels

In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil. Carefully drop bagels in, boiling for 1-2 minutes on each side.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place boiled bagels on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.

Let cool slightly before serving or store in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, sprinkle the bagels with sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning before baking.

Storage and Freezing

These protein bagels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their freshness, consider wrapping them individually in plastic wrap or foil. If you have a larger batch, freezing is an excellent option. After cooling completely, place the bagels in a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 2 months. Be sure to label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen bagel, simply take it out and let it thaw at room temperature. For a warm, chewy texture, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or toast it directly from the freezer until crispy.

Creative Toppings and Variations

These boiled and baked protein bagels serve as a fantastic base for various toppings. To enhance their flavor, consider adding herbs or spices to the dough, such as garlic powder, onion flakes, or dried oregano. For a savory option, top them with everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds just before baking for an added crunch.

If you're looking to switch up the protein source, feel free to experiment with different protein powders—just keep in mind that different types (whey, pea, soy) may alter the dough consistency slightly. You can also make these bagels sweeter by adding a couple of tablespoons of your favorite sweetener or incorporating dried fruits like raisins or cranberries into the dough for a breakfast treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but you may need to adjust the water amount slightly.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I add toppings to the bagels?

Absolutely! You can add toppings like cheese, seeds, or herbs before baking for extra flavor.

→ How do I reheat bagels?

You can reheat them in the toaster, oven, or microwave for a few seconds until warm.