Air Fryer Protein Bagels (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
02 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
03 - Pinch of salt (optional)
04 - 1 cup + 2 tablespoons cottage cheese (2% or 4%)
05 - 1 egg (optional)

→ Toppings

06 - Everything bagel seasoning
07 - Poppy seeds
08 - Sesame seeds

# How to Make It:

01 - Add the flour to a medium bowl and combine it with the baking powder. Add a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
02 - Make a well in the center of the flour and add the cottage cheese. Mix the dough using a fork or small rubber spatula until it begins to form a chunky dough. Alternatively, mix the dough in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
03 - Turn the bagel dough onto a well-floured surface and knead it with your hands for 1-2 minutes until it forms a semi-smooth ball. If the dough becomes sticky, add a sprinkle of flour or lightly coat your hands in flour as you knead.
04 - Divide the bagel dough into 4 equal sections. Roll each section into a 6-7 inch log that is about 3/4 inch thick, then connect the ends to form the bagel shape. Repeat for all 4 bagels.
05 - Crack and whisk the egg in a small bowl and add a splash of water or milk. Brush the egg wash lightly over each bagel using a rubber brush or pastry brush. Add toppings if desired.
06 - Preheat the air fryer to 150°C (300°F). Once preheated, spray or line the air fryer basket with cooking spray or parchment paper. Place the bagels in an even layer and cook for 15-17 minutes until golden. Check them at around 10 minutes as air fryers may vary in temperature.
07 - Once the bagels are golden brown and light and fluffy, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

# Handy Tips:

01 - Cottage cheese: 4% fat works best, but 2% will also work well
02 - Flour alternatives: whole wheat flour or cup-for-cup gluten-free flour can be substituted
03 - Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months
04 - Reheating: Defrost frozen bagels overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in air fryer at 165°C (330°F), in a toaster, or microwave until warmed through
05 - Oven alternative: Bake at 190°C (375°F) for 20-25 minutes