overhead shot of savory protein bagels - 3 are on a wire rack and one is on a plate with cream cheese, cucumbers, and lox — Makes: *4 Servings*
Per Serving: *20g Protein | 242 Cal*

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If you’ve ever wanted a bagel that actually helps you hit your protein goals, these high-protein bagels are one of the easiest ways to do it. They’re made with simple ingredients, come together quickly, and each bagel packs around 20 grams of protein, which makes them perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even meal prep.

What I like most about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can make these with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, with or without protein powder, and even adjust the flour depending on what you have on hand. It’s one of those recipes that feels simple but gives you a lot of options.

What Is a High-Protein Bagel?

A high-protein bagel is basically just a more balanced version of a regular bagel. Instead of only using flour, it includes ingredients like Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or protein powder to boost the protein without making it complicated.

The biggest difference is in the macros. A regular bagel usually has around 8-10 grams of protein, while these have about 20 grams per bagel, which is a pretty big jump. That extra protein makes them a lot more filling and helps keep you satisfied longer, especially if you’re having one for breakfast or as part of a meal.

I also like that this post gives you a few different ways to make them depending on what you prefer. There’s the main high-protein version with protein powder, a no protein powder option, and a version using regular flour instead of self-rising. That way you can pick what works best for your taste and what you have on hand.

overhead photo of everything protein bagels - 3 are on a wire rack and one is on a plate with cream cheese, lox, and sliced cucumbers

Main High-Protein Version

Ingredients

1 ¾ cups self-rising flour
½ cup whey/casein blend protein powder
1 1/3- 1 1/12 cups plain Greek yogurt (I find this depends on the dairy used. Start with 1 1/4 and if it’s too dry add more)
(or 1 to 1 ¼ cups blended, slightly strained cottage cheese)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 egg (for egg wash)
Everything but the bagel seasoning

Instructions

Preheat the oven and prep the pan: Preheat oven to 375 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Blend the cottage cheese (if using): If using cottage cheese, blend until smooth and lightly strain if watery.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour protein powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Create the dough: Add yogurt and mix until a dough begins to form. If dough is too dry or cracking, add yogurt, 1 tablespoon at a time.
Knead the dough: Knead with your hands until smooth. If dough is sticky, add flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
Divide and shape the dough: Make into a big oval, making sure all ends are the same size and thickness. Divide dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll into balls, then poke a hole in the center and gently stretch into bagel shapes.
Egg wash: Place on baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and add everything seasoning.
Bake the bagels: Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and baked through.
Cool: Let cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

High-Protein Everything Bagels (No Protein Powder Version)

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups self-rising flour
1 1/4 - 1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt (I find this depends on the dairy used. Start with 1 1/4 cup and if it’s too dry add more)
(or 1 to 1 ¼ cups blended, slightly strained cottage cheese)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 egg (for egg wash)
Everything but the bagel seasoning

High-Protein Everything Bagels (Regular Flour Version - Not Self Rising)

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 ¼-1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt or blended, slightly strained cottage cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 egg (for egg wash)
Everything but the bagel seasoning

Nutrition Information (Per Bagel - Makes 4 Servings)

One of the best parts about these high-protein bagels is how well they fit into a macro-friendly routine.

Each bagel comes out to about:

Calories: 242
Protein: 20g
Carbs: 38g
Fat: 0g

Compared to traditional bagels, you’re getting significantly more protein, which makes these a much more balanced option. They’re great on their own, or paired with eggs, cream cheese, or your favorite toppings to build a more complete meal.

Serving Ideas

Savory Options

Cream cheese and everything seasoning
Egg and cheese breakfast sandwich
Turkey, avocado, and greens

Sweet Options

Cinnamon sugar topping
Honey or jam
Greek yogurt and fruit

Tips for High Protein Bagels

Before baking, your dough should:

Not stick to your hands
Hold a round shape without sagging
Feel soft but structured

If it slumps on the tray, it will bake flat, which isn’t what you want!

For Taller Bake:

Chill shaped bagels for 10-15 minutes before baking, which helps them hold structure and gives you better rise.

Storage & Reheating

How to Store

Store bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for later.

How to Reheat

Toast for the best texture and to bring back that slightly crisp outside.
Microwave for a softer option if you want something quick.
For a more fresh-baked feel, warm in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.

close-up photo of protein bagel on a plate with cream cheese, lox, and cucumber on one half / protein bagels

FAQs

Yes, you can use cottage cheese instead of Greek yogurt in the main high-protein version. Just make sure to blend it until smooth and lightly strain it if it’s watery. Both options work well, so it really comes down to what you prefer or have on hand.
No, you don’t have to use protein powder. This post includes both a no protein powder version and a regular flour version, which still uses Greek yogurt or cottage cheese to add protein. That said, the main version with protein powder is what gives you the highest protein per bagel. If your goal is to really maximize protein, that’s the best option. Otherwise, the other variations are a great alternative depending on what you have on hand or prefer to use.
This usually comes down to the type of yogurt or cottage cheese you’re using since different brands have different moisture levels. If your dough feels too sticky, add a little flour, one tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry or cracking, add a little more yogurt until it comes together. You’re just looking for a dough that feels soft, holds its shape, and doesn’t stick to your hands.
Yes, this is a really beginner-friendly recipe. There’s no yeast, no rising time, and nothing complicated. As long as you pay attention to how the dough feels and follow the basic steps, you should be good. It’s a great recipe to try if it’s your first time making homemade bagels.
Yes, you can definitely switch up the toppings depending on what you like. Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, asiago cheese, or even a little sea salt all work really well. It’s an easy way to change the flavor without changing the base recipe.
For the best results, divide the dough into equal portions so they bake evenly. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center and gently stretch it into a bagel shape. Try to keep the thickness even all the way around so they bake consistently. If the dough is sticking, you can use a light dusting of flour to make it easier to handle.
Once cooled, store your homemade bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days, or in the fridge if you want them to last longer. You can also freeze them and reheat as needed so you always have fresh bagels ready to go.
If you’re focused on protein, these are a great alternative to a store-bought bagel. They have more protein per serving and are made with simple ingredients, which makes them a more balanced option for everyday use.

These high-protein bagels are one of those simple recipes that actually make a difference if you’re trying to eat more protein. They’re easy to make, flexible depending on what you have, and work for everything from breakfast to snacks. They’re also great if you’re trying to satisfy a bagel craving in a way that actually supports your goals. You can prep them ahead of time, customize them with different toppings, and use them in different meals throughout the week. If you’ve been looking for high protein bagel recipes or a better alternative to regular bagels, this is definitely one to try.