High-Protein Italian Herb Bagels

Name: High-Protein Italian Herb Bagels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup high-protein powder; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 2 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 tablespoon dried basil; 1 tablespoon dried thyme; 1 cup warm water (about 110°F); 1 egg (for egg wash); Sesame seeds (optional); Coarse sea salt (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these High-Protein Italian Herb Bagels at home! They are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that transform an ordinary breakfast into something spectacular. The herbs infuse each bite with aromatic goodness, while the added protein keeps me feeling full and satisfied throughout the morning. It's incredible how simple ingredients can come together so beautifully, providing not just a nutritious meal but also a flavorful experience. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T09:21:27.656Z

When I first experimented with these High-Protein Italian Herb Bagels, I knew I wanted to create something both nutritious and bursting with flavor. The key is using a mix of protein powder and Greek yogurt in the dough, which not only boosts the protein content but also lends a wonderfully chewy texture.

To really elevate the taste, I incorporated my favorite Italian herbs—oregano, basil, and thyme. This combination fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma as they bake, making it hard to wait before tearing into one straight from the oven. Trust me, these bagels will quickly become a breakfast staple!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Packed with high-quality protein for a satisfying start to your day
The aromatic blend of Italian herbs makes them irresistibly flavorful
Perfectly chewy texture that holds up well for your favorite spreads

The Role of Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt serves a dual purpose in these bagels. It not only enhances the protein content significantly but also contributes to a moist, tender texture. If you find that your bagels come out too dense, ensure you’re using full-fat Greek yogurt, as it contributes richness and helps keep the bagels from drying out. Low-fat versions might yield a firmer texture, which can impact the overall eating experience.

Another great aspect to consider is the tanginess of yogurt, which complements the herbs beautifully. This acidity helps in balancing the flavors, making your bagels more than just a vehicle for spreads. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, unsweetened coconut yogurt can also work as a suitable substitute, although it may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Perfecting the Chewy Texture

Achieving the ideal chewy texture is crucial for bagels, and the method of boiling before baking plays a key role in this. When you boil the bagels for about one minute per side, you're not only setting the crust but also creating that classic dense interior. Make sure your water is at a rolling boil—this helps ensure that the bagels puff up properly during the cooking process. If you notice them not expanding as desired, your yeast might not be active, so always check the expiration date before starting.

The use of high-protein powder further aids in developing gluten, essential for that chewy bite. For those trying to reduce gluten, a blend of almond flour and a gluten-free flour mix can be experimented with, but be aware that this will alter the texture significantly, requiring further adjustments.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

These High-Protein Italian Herb Bagels are wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. They pair excellently with various spreads, including cream cheese, hummus, or even avocado mash, which enhances both the flavor and nutritional profile. Consider toasting them lightly before spreading for an added layer of warmth and crunch, making breakfast or brunch feel extra special.

For storage, allow the bagels to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days, but for longer freshness, you can freeze them. Simply slice them beforehand for easier toasting later. They can be stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, pop them in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup high-protein powder
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 cup warm water (about 110°F)

For the Topping

1 egg (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds (optional)
Coarse sea salt (optional)

Preparation Steps

Directions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm water, honey, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. In another bowl, mix together flour, high-protein powder, salt, oregano, basil, and thyme. Stir in Greek yogurt and the yeast mixture, then mix until a dough forms.

Knead and Shape

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape each piece into a bagel by pressing a hole in the center and stretching it gently.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently drop the bagels into the boiling water, cooking for about 1 minute on each side. Remove them and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the bagels with an egg wash, and sprinkle sesame seeds and coarse sea salt on top if using. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding minced garlic or crushed red pepper to the dough. These bagels freeze wonderfully
just pop them in the toaster when you’re ready to enjoy one!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels flatten while boiling, this could be due to over-kneading the dough, which can lead to excessive gluten formation. Aim for a smooth but slightly tacky dough that holds its shape without undue stretching. A light knead for about five minutes is usually sufficient to develop the right texture.

Another issue can be chewy bagels that lack flavor. To enhance flavor, make sure the herbs you are using are fresh and not past their prime; stale herbs lose potency. You might also consider adding a punch of grated Parmesan cheese to the dough for added depth in taste.

Customizing Your Bagels

Feeling adventurous? You can easily customize your bagels by incorporating other ingredients into the dough. Adding finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives will provide a burst of flavor and texture. For a bit of heat, consider mixing in red pepper flakes or even some minced jalapeños.

Herbs are not limited to the Italian variety; feel free to experiment with fresh dill, rosemary, or even a dash of garlic powder. Each variation gives the bagels a unique twist, making them perfect for themed meals or gatherings.

Scaling the Recipe

This bagel recipe can be scaled up easily for gatherings or meal prep. Simply multiply the ingredient quantities by the number of bags you wish to make. Just be sure to mix in larger bowls to accommodate the increased volume, and consider adjusting your boiling pot size to prevent overcrowding during that crucial step.

If you're making a large batch, you can quickly cool the bagels on wire racks and freeze the extras. Remember to label your freezer bags with the date and type, so you can enjoy these bagels on demand without them going stale.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but you may need to adjust the amount of water as it absorbs more moisture.

→ How long do these bagels last?

They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use a flax egg instead of a whole egg.

→ What toppings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with toppings such as poppy seeds, garlic flakes, or even shredded cheese before baking.