If you have a soft spot for warm, cozy flavors wrapped up in a wholesome bite, then this Apple Cinnamon Protein Bagels Recipe is about to become your new favorite breakfast or snack. These bagels are the perfect blend of tender texture, sweet apple bits, and just the right amount of cinnamon spice, all boosted by the protein-packed goodness of Greek yogurt. Bursting with warmth and a touch of sweetness, this recipe is not just delicious but also makes for a nutritious start to your day or a satisfying pick-me-up any time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these bagels just right starts with a handful of simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients that each bring their own magic to the mix. Every component plays a key role, whether it’s adding flavor, texture, or that perfect golden color.
- White whole-wheat flour: Provides a hearty base with more nutrition than plain flour while keeping the bagels soft.
- Baking powder: Acts as the leavening agent, helping the bagels rise just enough to stay fluffy yet chewy.
- Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the dough.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses the dough with warm, spicy notes essential for that classic apple-cinnamon vibe.
- Brown sugar: Offers a deeper caramel-like sweetness that complements the fruit beautifully.
- Vanilla Greek yogurt: Adds protein and moisture so the bagels stay tender and healthful.
- Diced apple: For bursts of fresh, juicy sweetness and a pleasing texture contrast.
- Melted butter: Brushed on top for a shiny golden crust and an inviting buttery flavor.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Protein Bagels Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make sure your bagels don’t stick and come out with beautifully crisp bottoms.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the white whole-wheat flour, baking powder, kosher salt, ground cinnamon, and brown sugar. This ensures all the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed, so every bite carries that consistent flavor and texture you’re aiming for.
Step 3: Add Greek Yogurt and Form Dough
Now it’s time to fold in the vanilla Greek yogurt carefully. Work it into the dry ingredients until a rough dough forms. Then gently knead it just enough to bring everything together — overworking the dough can make your bagels tough, so be gentle and patient here.
Step 4: Fold in the Apples
Next, fold in the finely diced apples. This is where the bagels start to transform, as those little pieces of juicy fruit will give delightful bursts of flavor and contribute to a moist crumb texture.
Step 5: Shape the Bagels
Divide the dough into 6 to 8 equal pieces depending on the size you want. Roll each piece into a rope and gently shape it into the classic bagel ring. This is your chance to get creative or keep it simple—the rustic charm is all part of the experience.
Step 6: Brush with Butter
Place the shaped bagels evenly on your prepared baking sheet and brush each one’s top with melted butter. This step helps develop a golden, enticing crust that beckons you to take a bite.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the bagels for 22 to 25 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. After they’re out of the oven, let them cool slightly before enjoying. The aroma filling your kitchen here is just the beginning of the treat you’re in for.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Protein Bagels Recipe
Garnishes
While these bagels are delicious on their own, topping them with a bit of cream cheese—plain or flavored with honey or cinnamon—takes them to another level. For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top.
Side Dishes
A balanced accompaniment to these bagels can be a fresh fruit salad or a smoothie packed with greens and berries. If you’re after a savory contrast, a side of scrambled eggs or smoked salmon pairs surprisingly well with the sweet-spiced flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your Apple Cinnamon Protein Bagels and use them as a base for layered breakfast sandwiches with nut butter and banana slices. You can also turn them into mini bagel pizzas with cream cheese and fruit toppings for a fun brunch or snack option that delights both kids and adults.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra bagels, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them soft and flavorful. For best freshness, avoid storing them in the fridge as it can dry them out.
Freezing
These bagels freeze beautifully! Wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them all in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to three months and can be thawed whenever you need a quick, tasty treat.
Reheating
To enjoy your bagels fresh from the freezer, simply toast or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. This will revive their soft insides and crisp up the buttery crust perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of white whole-wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour if you don’t have whole-wheat on hand, though the bagels might be slightly less hearty and nutritious. The flavor will still be delicious!
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
Firm, crisp apples like Cosmic Crisp or Honeycrisp are ideal because they hold their shape and provide that lovely balance of sweetness and tartness during baking.
Can I make these bagels dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, swap the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative and use a dairy-free butter for brushing the tops. The texture may vary slightly but will still be tasty.
How can I boost the protein content even more?
Adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder into the dry ingredients can increase protein without altering the flavor much. Just make sure to choose an unflavored or vanilla variety for best results.
Is it okay to add nuts or raisins to the dough?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts or raisins can be folded into the dough along with the apples for added texture and bursts of flavor—just keep the quantities moderate so the dough isn’t overloaded.
Final Thoughts
Making this Apple Cinnamon Protein Bagels Recipe is truly a joy from start to finish, and the reward is a batch of golden, fragrant bagels that feel both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re sharing them with family, packing them for a lunchbox, or savoring one with a cozy cup of tea, these bagels are sure to brighten your day. I can’t wait for you to try them and see how this simple recipe becomes your new go-to breakfast delight!
Print
Apple Cinnamon Protein Bagels Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 bagels
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Apple Cinnamon Protein Bagels are a wholesome and delicious twist on traditional bagels, made with whole-wheat flour, warm cinnamon, and sweet diced apples. Packed with protein from Greek yogurt, they make a perfect hearty breakfast or snack option. Soft on the inside and golden brown on the outside, these bagels are easy to prepare and bake in under 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups white whole-wheat flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1¾ cups vanilla Greek yogurt (high-protein, non-fat works well)
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
Add-ins
- 1 apple (Cosmic Crisp or Honeycrisp), finely diced
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the white whole-wheat flour, baking powder, kosher salt, ground cinnamon, and brown sugar until well combined.
- Incorporate Yogurt: Fold in the vanilla Greek yogurt into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Gently knead the dough just until combined—avoid overworking to maintain the bagel’s tenderness.
- Add Apples: Fold the finely diced apple pieces gently into the dough to distribute evenly without crushing.
- Shape Bagels: Divide the dough into 6 to 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and shape it into a bagel by joining the ends.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the shaped bagels on the parchment-lined baking sheet and brush the tops with melted butter to help them brown beautifully.
- Bake: Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for 22–25 minutes, until they are golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bagels to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to enjoy their flavor and texture at their best.
Notes
- Use high-protein, non-fat Greek yogurt to boost the protein content while keeping the bagels light.
- Do not over-knead the dough to prevent tough bagels.
- Choose crisp, flavorful apples like Cosmic Crisp or Honeycrisp for the best texture and sweetness.
- Brush with butter after baking for a glossy finish and extra richness if preferred.
- These bagels are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.
