Protein Bagels With Sesame Crust

Name: Protein Bagels With Sesame Crust
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups high-protein flour; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon active dry yeast; 3/4 cup warm water; 1 scoop protein powder; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds; 1 egg (for egg wash); Optional: additional seasonings

Highlighted under: Instant Cooking

I never thought making bagels at home could be this satisfying until I tried these Protein Bagels With Sesame Crust. Not only do they deliver a delicious boost in protein, but the sesame seeds add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that elevates the entire experience. As someone who loves a good breakfast, these bagels have become my go-to for an energizing start to the day. They are easy to make and versatile enough to top with anything from cream cheese to avocado.

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-02-16T07:13:37.458Z

When I first decided to make my own bagels, I was skeptical about the process. However, I learned that using high-protein flour not only adds nutritional value but gives the bagels a chewy texture that is simply irresistible. After a few trial runs, I've perfected the recipe, and now I can’t imagine starting my day without them.

In my experiments, I found that letting the dough rest properly helped develop the gluten, resulting in a better rise. Adding sesame seeds before baking creates an aromatic crust that is truly divine. I love experimenting with different toppings, but sesame will always be my favorite.

        Why You'll Love These Bagels
        High in protein to fuel your morning
Delicious nutty flavor from the sesame crust
Perfectly chewy texture that rivals any bagel shop

      

Understanding Protein Sources

The protein powder you choose for these bagels plays a significant role in both texture and nutritional value. A high-quality whey or plant-based protein powder can enhance the bagels' chewiness while providing a rich source of amino acids. Ensure that the protein powder is unflavored or lightly flavored to avoid overpowering the bagel's inherent taste, allowing the nutty sesame crust to shine through without distractions.

Moreover, if you are looking to cater to specific dietary needs, consider experimenting with different types of protein powder. For instance, pea protein can be a great plant-based alternative, while casein protein will help yield a denser bagel. Just remember that varying the protein will slightly alter the texture and density, which can be a fun experiment to find your preferred version.

Essential Baking Techniques

Kneading the dough is a critical step that contributes to the bagels’ ultimate chewiness. As you knead, make sure to work the dough until it becomes smooth and slightly elastic, which should take about 5-7 minutes by hand. If you’re using a stand mixer, allow it to mix on low speed with a dough hook attachment for roughly 5 minutes, watching for that glossy finish and soft texture before letting it rest.

When shaping the bagels, be gentle yet firm. Rolling the pieces into a ball and forming a hole with your thumb is essential. The key is to ensure the hole is large enough since it will shrink as the dough rises and bakes. Aim for an opening about one to two inches in diameter; this allows for the perfect bagel shape and ensures even cooking.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Protein Bagels can be made in batches and stored for later use. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze them for longer-term storage. To freeze, wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them directly in the toaster.

For serving, consider topping your bagels with a variety of ingredients based on your taste preferences. Cream cheese and smoked salmon create a classic combination, while smashed avocado topped with chili flakes offers a fresher alternative. You can also spread nut butter for a pre-workout snack. Feel free to customize with sliced vegetables or poached eggs, which pair beautifully with the chewy texture of these protein-packed bagels.

Ingredients for Protein Bagels With Sesame Crust

Bagel Dough

2 cups high-protein flour
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm water
1 scoop protein powder

Toppings

2 tablespoons sesame seeds
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional: additional seasonings

Make sure to adjust the toppings to your liking for added flavor!

Steps to Make Protein Bagels

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix together warm water, honey, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. In a separate bowl, combine high-protein flour, protein powder, and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and knead until a dough forms. Cover and let it rest for about 20 minutes.

Shape the Bagels

Once the dough has rested, divide it into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and poke a hole through the center to form a bagel shape. Place them on a baking parchment-lined tray.

Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush the bagels with the egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.

Bake the Bagels

Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoy these bagels fresh out of the oven or toasted with your favorite spread!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, try adding garlic powder or everything bagel seasoning to the dough before baking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels don't achieve the desired chewiness, it might be due to insufficient kneading or resting. Ensure you are kneading until the dough is elastic and giving it enough time to rest to relax the gluten before shaping. If they spread too much while baking, try checking the dough's hydration. A slightly stiffer dough with less water may help maintain shape during baking.

Another potential issue could be due to yeast activation. Make sure that the water used for dissolving the yeast is warm but not hot—between 100°F and 110°F (37°C to 43°C) is ideal. If the yeast fails to bloom during the first rise (appearing foamy), discard that mixture and start anew to ensure that your bagels rise properly.

Variations to Try

Incorporating flavors into the bagel dough can elevate your baking. Consider adding herbs like dried basil or rosemary directly to the dough for an herbal twist. Additionally, incorporating spices such as garlic powder or onion powder will provide savory flavors that can complement various toppings beautifully. To take it a step further, you could even mix seeds like poppy seeds or everything seasoning into the bagel mixture before shaping.

For a sweet variation, try adding cinnamon and a tablespoon of brown sugar into the dough to create a delicious cinnamon protein bagel. Top these with a light drizzle of honey or maple syrup to enhance the sweetness. By experimenting with different mixes and match flavors, you’ll find endless possibilities to delight your taste buds.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, but the texture may be softer and less chewy.

→ How can I store the bagels?

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

→ Can I add additional toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with toppings like poppy seeds, onion flakes, or cheese.

→ What can I use instead of honey?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.