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 bread flour; 1/2 cup high-protein flour; 1/4 cup protein powder; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon instant yeast; 1 tablespoon poppy seeds; 1 cup warm water; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Healthy Bites

I love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and these Protein Bagels with Poppy Seeds provide just the right balance of flavor and nutrition. Not only do they taste amazing, but they're also packed with protein, making them a perfect choice to fuel my mornings. The poppy seeds add a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness, creating a satisfying bagel that pairs well with various toppings. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you to elevate your breakfast game!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-16T06:53:36.546Z

One morning, I decided to experiment with my regular bagel recipe, adding protein powder and poppy seeds. I was pleasantly surprised by how well these ingredients worked together. The addition of protein powder not only boosts nutrition but also gives the bagels a beautiful texture that keeps them chewy yet light. I find that the poppy seeds offer a lovely contrast, making each bite enjoyable.

I recommend toasting these bagels to unlock their full flavor potential. Spreading some cream cheese or avocado on top enhances the flavor even more. I love how versatile these bagels are; they can be enjoyed sweet or savory depending on my mood!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
High in protein, perfect for a filling breakfast.
Deliciously nutty flavor from the poppy seeds.
A fun and rewarding baking project for all skill levels.

Mastering the Perfect Dough

Achieving the right dough consistency is crucial for bagel success. When kneading the dough, look for a smooth and elastic texture, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes of kneading. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little more bread flour—just a tablespoon at a time—to keep it manageable without losing its essence. Properly kneaded dough can stretch without tearing, signifying that gluten has developed sufficiently, which is essential for the bagel's chewy texture.

After kneading, the first rise is vital for dough development. Allowing the dough to double in size—usually about 30 minutes in a warm environment—enables yeast fermentation, which enhances flavor and texture. A good trick is to place the bowl in a turned-off oven with the light on; it provides a cozy warmth that helps the dough rise effectively. Be patient; rushing this step could lead to denser bagels.

The Art of Shaping Bagels

Shaping bagels can be a fun and rewarding process. After punching down the risen dough, divide it into 8 equal pieces for uniform bagel sizes. When forming the bagels, roll each piece into a ball and then use your finger to gently poke a hole through the center. This should be done carefully; too small a hole can close up during boiling and baking, resulting in a classic bagel shape that’s vital for texture. Aim for a hole diameter of about 1-2 inches, which will expand during cooking.

The second rise is equally important in producing light and airy bagels. Placing the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet not only prevents sticking but also helps them maintain their shape. While they puff naturally in this second rise, cover them lightly with a damp cloth to prevent drying. This process typically takes about 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for slight puffiness without doubling in size.

Ingredients

For the Protein Bagels

2 cups bread flour
1/2 cup high-protein flour
1/4 cup protein powder
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
1 cup warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil

Enjoy your homemade bagels fresh out of the oven!

Instructions

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, high-protein flour, protein powder, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Whisk together until well combined.

Add Wet Ingredients

Make a well in the center of the dry mixture and pour in the warm water and olive oil. Mix until it forms a sticky dough.

Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Shape the Bagels

After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the middle to form a bagel shape.

Second Rise

Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them rise for another 15-20 minutes.

Boil the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then gently drop the bagels in (2-3 at a time) and boil for about 2 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Bake the Bagels

Remove the bagels from the water using a slotted spoon, return them to the baking sheet, and sprinkle with poppy seeds. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the bagels cool on a wire rack before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding herbs or spices to the dough before baking. You can also experiment with different toppings like sesame seeds or everything seasoning!

Serving and Storage Tips

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they are still warm and slightly crispy. However, you can easily toast them or top them with various spreads, such as cream cheese or avocado, adding layers of flavor. For a future breakfast option, bagels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure they’re wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

When ready to enjoy frozen bagels, a simple reheating method works wonders. You can toast them directly from the freezer or microwave them for about 30 seconds, then finish them in a toaster for a crispy exterior. This method preserves moisture and texture while enhancing their nutty flavor from the poppy seeds.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize your bagels! You can incorporate different toppings, such as sesame seeds, everything seasoning, or even finely chopped herbs for added flavor. If you're looking to boost the nutritional value, try adding ingredients like flax seeds or chia seeds to the dough. This not only enhances the health benefits but also adds unique texture.

For those interested in experimenting with flavors, consider adding spices like garlic powder or onion powder to the dry mix, which creates a savory bagel. Another delightful variation is to incorporate ingredients like cheese or sun-dried tomatoes into the dough before shaping, resulting in a distinct taste that offers a twist on the classic.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, but the texture and protein content may vary slightly.

→ How should I store the bagels?

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

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may differ from traditional bagels.

→ What toppings go well with these bagels?

Cream cheese, avocado, smoked salmon, or even nut butter all pair wonderfully!