High-Protein Italian Herb Bagels

Name: High-Protein Italian Herb Bagels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 250g all-purpose flour; 50g protein powder; 1 tsp instant yeast; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp sugar; 180ml Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp dried oregano; 1 tbsp dried basil; 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped; 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Taste the World Recipes

I absolutely love making homemade bagels, and these High-Protein Italian Herb Bagels have become my favorite! The blend of protein-rich ingredients and aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme creates a delightful flavor that elevates simple breakfast dishes. Each bite feels hearty and satisfying while still being light, making them perfect for any meal. I enjoy preparing a batch on the weekends and freezing extras for quick, nutritious breakfasts throughout the week. Let’s dive into how to make these wonderfully flavorful bagels!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-27T11:45:28.308Z

When I first tried making bagels, I didn’t expect them to be so rewarding! With these High-Protein Italian Herb Bagels, the combination of protein powder and yogurt adds an amazing texture. The key was knowing when to bake them just long enough to achieve that perfect chewiness without overdoing it. It truly transforms breakfast into a satisfying experience.

I experimented by adding different herbs and spices, and it turned out that using fresh herbs really makes a difference. I particularly love the aroma that fills my kitchen while they’re baking, and it becomes even more exciting when I see my family enjoy them just as much. Don't skip the egg wash for golden, glossy bagels that look as good as they taste!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
High in protein for energy and satiety
Delicious blend of Italian herbs for a flavor punch
Perfectly chewy texture that rivals any bakery bagel

The Importance of Protein and Herbs

In these High-Protein Italian Herb Bagels, the protein powder serves not only to boost nutritional value but also affects the dough's structure. Unlike standard flour, protein powder enhances chewiness while maintaining a soft interior. This is essential for creating that perfect bagel texture. When measuring, make sure to use a kitchen scale for accuracy since too much protein can lead to an overly dense bagel.

The blend of dried oregano, basil, and fresh herbs brings a delightful aroma and richness to the bagels. Fresh herbs, like rosemary and thyme, add layers of flavor, making each bite more complex. It's vital to chop fresh herbs finely to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the dough, which helps avoid pockets of intense flavor that might overwhelm the palate.

Shaping and Boiling Tips

Shaping the bagels is a crucial step that determines their final form. When rolling the dough into balls and creating the hole, be gentle yet firm; this helps maintain the dough's elasticity and prevents tearing. Stretch the hole gradually to about 1-2 inches in diameter as it will shrink during boiling and baking. A well-shaped bagel will ensure even cooking and a nice, round appearance.

Boiling the bagels is another key technique. This step develops their chewy exterior. Ensure the water is at a rolling boil, which is crucial for a successful boil. For added flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of honey or barley malt syrup to the water; this will enhance the bagels' browning and flavor during baking. Boil the bagels for one minute on each side to achieve optimal chewiness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your flavorful bagels:

Bagel Dough Ingredients

250g all-purpose flour
50g protein powder
1 tsp instant yeast
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
180ml Greek yogurt
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tbsp dried basil
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 egg (for egg wash)

Make sure to have everything measured out before starting the process for a smoother experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your High-Protein Italian Herb Bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour, protein powder, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. In another bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, and herbs. Gradually add the yogurt mixture to the dry ingredients, combining until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. If sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour as needed.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center using your finger and stretch it into the bagel shape.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently drop in the bagels, cooking for 1 minute on each side. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Egg Wash and Bake

Beat the egg and brush it over the bagels. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes, until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Let the bagels cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy them fresh or toasted with your favorite toppings!

These bagels can be stored in an airtight container for a few days or frozen for longer freshness.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding garlic powder or red pepper flakes to the dough. You can also experiment with different toppings before baking, such as sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These bagels are perfect for batch cooking! After baking, let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the bagels individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a zip-top bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

To reheat frozen bagels, simply remove them and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can then toast them directly from the freezer for a quick breakfast. This not only revives their texture but also makes them taste freshly baked again. Toasting enhances their golden crust while keeping the inside soft.

Serving Suggestions

The versatility of these High-Protein Italian Herb Bagels allows for numerous serving possibilities. Enjoy them plain or topped with cream cheese and smoked salmon for a hearty breakfast. You might also consider adding sliced tomatoes and a sprinkle of capers for a vibrant brunch dish that feels indulgent yet healthy.

For a quick snack, spread some hummus on a toasted bagel half and garnish it with cucumber slices and paprika. Alternatively, make breakfast sandwiches using eggs, spinach, and cheese tucked between two bagel halves. The robust flavor profile of these bagels complements a variety of toppings, making each meal a delightful culinary experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary.

→ How long can I store these bagels?

They can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I use a different flavor of protein powder?

Absolutely! Vanilla or unflavored protein powders work well, just keep in mind that it may alter the taste slightly.

→ What should I top my bagels with?

Cream cheese, avocado, smoked salmon, or even pesto are great choices for toppings!