Protein Bagels With Flaxseed

Name: Protein Bagels With Flaxseed
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups whole wheat flour; 1/2 cup ground flaxseed; 1/4 cup protein powder; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 cup water; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Smart Kitchen

I've always loved the idea of bagels for breakfast, but I wanted to create a version that not only satisfies my cravings but also boosts my protein intake. This recipe for Protein Bagels With Flaxseed has become my go-to. The addition of ground flaxseed provides not just added nutrition but a delightful nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chewy texture of the bagel. Plus, these bagels are incredibly simple to make, allowing me to enjoy a fresh batch even on busy mornings.

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:51:36.407Z

Making my own protein bagels has been a game-changer in my breakfast routine. The first time I tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the flaxseed not only added health benefits, but also enhanced the overall flavor. It gives the bagels a satisfying crunch while keeping them soft in the middle. What I truly appreciate is that I can easily personalize these bagels with my favorite toppings, from seeds to savory spreads.

When baking, I recommend letting the dough rest for a few minutes after mixing—it helps with the texture and makes shaping the bagels a breeze. An additional tip is to boil the bagels for a minute before baking. This step is crucial as it gives the bagels that perfect chewy crust, making them not just nutritious, but also a delight to eat!

        Why You Will Love These Bagels
        Nutritious boost from flaxseed for added health benefits
Chewy texture with a satisfying crunch
Versatile toppings make them customizable for everyone's taste
Perfect for meal prep and easy to freeze for later

      

The Role of Flaxseed

Ground flaxseed not only adds a delightful nutty flavor but also significantly enhances the nutritional profile of these bagels. Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and lignans, which provide health benefits such as improved digestion and heart health. Incorporating flaxseed in this recipe contributes to a more balanced meal that will keep you feeling full longer, making them an ideal choice for breakfast or a snack.

One of the best aspects of using flaxseed in bagel recipes is its ability to act as a binding agent. When mixed with water, flaxseed forms a gel-like consistency that helps hold the dough together, making it a fantastic option for gluten-free bakers or those looking to reduce their egg consumption. Just be mindful not to overdo it, as too much flaxseed can lead to a dense dough.

Perfecting the Baking Process

When shaping the bagels, remember that the hole in the center is crucial for even cooking and to achieve that classic bagel appearance. I recommend using your thumb to create the hole, making it about 1 to 2 inches wide. Don't worry if they shrink slightly during boiling; they’ll expand back in the oven! Preheating your oven before placing the bagels in is essential to ensure they bake evenly and develop a lovely golden crust.

Boiling the bagels is an important step in achieving the perfect chewy texture. By boiling them for just a minute on each side, you're creating a slight crust that locks in moisture. If you notice that your bagels are too puffy after boiling, try using a lower boiling duration next time. A minute gives them the right balance of chewiness and structure without making them too dense.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

2 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 cup ground flaxseed
1/4 cup protein powder
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 cup water
1 tablespoon olive oil

Feel free to add your favorite bagel toppings before baking or enjoy them plain!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, ground flaxseed, protein powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix well. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey (or maple syrup), water, and olive oil. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Dust your work surface with a little flour and transfer the dough. Divide it into 6 equal pieces, roll each piece into a ball, and then poke a hole in the center to shape into a bagel.

Boil and Bake

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently drop in the bagels, cooking for 1 minute on each side. Remove and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Let the bagels cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before enjoying. They are perfect fresh, or you can freeze them for later!

Enjoy your bagels with your favorite spreads or toppings!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, try adding herbs or spices to the dough, such as garlic powder or onion flakes.

Storage and Freezing Tips

These Protein Bagels With Flaxseed can easily be made in advance and stored for busy mornings. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, simply pop them into the toaster directly from the freezer; this helps maintain their texture without losing moisture.

For short-term storage, keep any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you notice the bagels starting to dry out, a quick visit to the toaster or a microwave blast for 10 to 15 seconds can bring back their chewiness.

Creative Serving Suggestions

These bagels are incredibly versatile and can be topped with a variety of spreads and ingredients. For a protein-packed breakfast, try spreading them with Greek yogurt and adding sliced fruit or nuts. For a savory option, cream cheese paired with smoked salmon and capers makes for a satisfying treat any time of day.

You can also experiment with different flavorings in the dough itself. Adding herbs, garlic powder, or even spices like smoked paprika can give your bagels a unique twist. Even cheese lovers can fold in shredded cheese before cooking to create a cheesy version. Be open to creative adaptations; you might discover a new favorite combination!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought protein powder?

Yes, any unflavored or vanilla protein powder works well in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What toppings can I use?

Feel free to top your bagels with everything from sesame seeds and poppy seeds to cream cheese or avocado!