These simple 3-ingredient protein bagels are not just quick and easy, they’re also incredibly versatile. The base is a perfect blank canvas, ready to be dressed up with your favorite toppings or mixed into savory or sweet flavors. Whether you prefer a smear of creamy cream cheese, a slice of smoked salmon, or even a drizzle of honey for a sweet twist, these bagels hold up beautifully. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s customizable, so you can get as creative as you want. I’ve even added a handful of shredded cheese to the dough before baking, and let me tell you, that little burst of gooey, cheesy goodness made them extra special.
What I love most is how soft and chewy these bagels turn out, with that classic texture we all crave, but without all the carbs and time-consuming steps of traditional bagels. They make for a perfect breakfast, a hearty snack, or a quick meal prep for busy weeks. And, of course, with just three ingredients, you know exactly what’s going into your bagel. No need to worry about hidden additives or extra sugars — just pure, wholesome deliciousness that you can feel good about eating. It’s so satisfying to know that you can enjoy a bagel that’s both healthy and indulgent at the same time.
Key Ingredients in Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels
Each of the three ingredients in these protein-packed bagels serves a specific purpose, working together to create a dough that’s not only flavorful but also high in protein and low in carbs. Let’s break them down:
- Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is the star of this recipe. It brings a rich, creamy texture to the dough while also adding a hefty dose of protein. The tangy flavor balances out the subtle sweetness of the other ingredients and helps bind everything together for that perfect chewy texture. Plus, the probiotics in Greek yogurt add a little extra goodness to every bite. - Almond Flour
Almond flour is a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional flours. It gives the bagels a slightly nutty flavor and a soft, tender crumb. Rich in healthy fats and fiber, almond flour not only makes these bagels healthier but also adds a satisfying bite that complements the chewiness. - Baking Powder
Baking powder is the secret to making these bagels puff up just right. It creates the lightness and lift we all love in a bagel without any yeast or long rising times. This simple leavening agent ensures that your bagels don’t end up dense or flat, but instead perfectly airy and chewy.
These three ingredients are all you need to create a bagel that’s both nourishing and indulgent. They work together in harmony, resulting in a bagel you’ll want to enjoy day after day.
How to Make Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature to get those bagels golden brown and perfectly baked.
- Prepare a baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the bagels from sticking. Trust me, you don’t want your bagels to stick to the pan — it makes cleanup so much easier!
- Mix the ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of Greek yogurt, 1 cup of almond flour, and 1 tablespoon of baking powder. Use a spoon or spatula to stir everything together until a dough begins to form. It will be a little sticky, but that’s okay!
- Knead the dough. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface (you can use almond flour here too). Gently knead it for about 1-2 minutes, until it comes together into a smooth ball. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more almond flour on top.
- Shape the bagels. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then use your finger to poke a hole through the center of each ball to create the bagel shape. Gently shape the dough around the hole to form a smooth ring. Make sure the hole is wide enough so it doesn’t close up while baking.
- Arrange the bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Place each shaped bagel onto the baking sheet, leaving a little space between them for expansion.
- Bake the bagels. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them after the 15-minute mark, as oven temperatures can vary.
- Let them cool. Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature—either way, they’ll be delicious!
Serving Suggestions for Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels
- Classic Bagel with Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon
Sometimes, the simplest combinations are the best. Spread a generous layer of creamy cream cheese on your freshly baked bagel, then top with a few slices of smoked salmon. The tang of the cream cheese pairs perfectly with the rich, smoky flavor of the salmon, and it’s a classic combo you can never go wrong with. - Bagel with Avocado and Egg
For a heartier option, slice your bagel in half and pile on some creamy mashed avocado. Add a perfectly fried or poached egg on top, sprinkle with a little salt, pepper, and maybe even a dash of red pepper flakes for some extra heat. This makes for a filling breakfast or a quick lunch that’s packed with healthy fats and protein. - Sweet Bagel with Nut Butter and Banana
For those days when you’re in the mood for something a bit sweeter, spread a layer of your favorite nut butter (almond, peanut, or even cashew!) on the bagel, and top it with banana slices. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon would take this treat over the top, giving you a satisfying balance of sweetness and protein.
Each of these options takes your simple protein bagels to the next level, making them perfect for whatever mood or meal you’re in the mood for. The possibilities are endless—what’s your favorite way to enjoy them?
How to Store Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels
Once you’ve baked a batch of these delicious protein bagels, you’ll want to make sure they stay fresh for as long as possible. Luckily, storing them is just as simple as making them. If you plan to enjoy them within a couple of days, you can keep them at room temperature. Just pop them in an airtight container or wrap them in a clean kitchen towel to keep them soft and chewy. They’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 days this way—perfect for snacking or a quick breakfast.
For longer storage, you can freeze these bagels and keep them for up to a month. Simply let them cool completely, then wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy one, just grab a bagel and let it thaw on the counter for a bit, or pop it in the toaster for a few minutes to bring it back to life with a golden, crispy exterior.
If you prefer to keep them fresh for a few days but want to preserve that freshly baked texture, you can slice the bagels before storing them. This makes it super easy to grab a slice whenever you’re in the mood for one, and it also helps to prevent the bagels from getting too thick or tough when you reheat them. Just make sure you wrap them up well, and they’ll stay perfect for a few days!
Conclusion
And there you have it—your very own Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels, ready to enjoy in just a few simple steps. With their soft, chewy texture and endless topping possibilities, they’re a perfect addition to your breakfast routine, snack time, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Whether you like them savory or sweet, these bagels are as customizable as your cravings. Plus, you can feel good about what’s going into them, knowing they’re low in carbs, high in protein, and free from any unwanted additives.
I hope you give these bagels a try and experience just how easy and delicious they can be! If you end up making them, I’d love to hear all about your favorite ways to top them, or if you have any questions or tweaks to the recipe. Feel free to leave a comment below—I’m always here to chat about all things food and cooking! And if you need any help along the way, don’t hesitate to ask. Happy bagel baking, my friend!
Simple 3 Ingredient Protein Bagels
Description
These 3-ingredient protein bagels are a game-changer! Soft, fluffy, and perfectly chewy, they’re packed with protein to keep you satisfied. Quick and easy to make, they’re the perfect healthy snack or breakfast to fuel your day!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of self-rising flour with 1 cup of Greek yogurt.
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Stir the flour and yogurt together using a spoon or spatula until the mixture begins to form a dough.
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Once the dough starts coming together, crack 1 large egg into the mixture.
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Mix the egg into the dough thoroughly until everything is evenly incorporated and a soft dough forms.
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Lightly flour a clean surface or use a silicone baking mat to prevent the dough from sticking.
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Turn the dough out onto the surface and gently knead it for about 1-2 minutes, just until it becomes smooth and cohesive.
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Divide the dough into 4 equal portions, rolling each into a ball shape.
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Flatten each dough ball slightly into a disc, then use your fingers to create a hole in the center of each to form a bagel shape.
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Transfer the shaped bagels to the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart slightly.
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For a golden finish, brush the tops of the bagels with a bit of water or an egg wash if desired.
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Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown on top.
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Once the bagels are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Note
- Self-rising flour already contains baking powder and salt, so no additional leavening agents are needed.
- Use plain Greek yogurt for the best texture; avoid flavored or sweetened varieties.
- If the dough is too sticky, lightly flour your hands or the surface to make handling easier.
- For a more golden and crispy bagel, apply an egg wash before baking.
- You can add toppings like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning before baking for extra flavor.
