Peanut Butter Protein Bagels

Name: Peanut Butter Protein Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup whole wheat flour; 1/2 cup peanut butter; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tbsp honey (optional); Water as needed

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Recipes

I love starting my day with these Peanut Butter Protein Bagels. They’re not only delicious but also packed with protein to keep me full and energized. The combination of hearty bagels and creamy peanut butter makes for a satisfying breakfast or snack. I especially appreciate how simple these are to make. With just a few ingredients, I can whip them up in no time, perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends. Trust me, once you try them, you'll want to keep these bagels on hand!

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-25T15:33:27.856Z

Making these Peanut Butter Protein Bagels has become a delightful routine for me. I remember the first time I experimented with this recipe, aiming for a healthy alternative to store-bought options. I was thrilled to discover how easily the dough came together, and the rich flavor of peanut butter elevates the taste to new heights.

One day, I decided to add a sprinkle of chia seeds for extra crunch and omega-3s. To my surprise, it took the texture up a notch! I’ll never go back to plain bagels again. These have become a staple in my kitchen, and I love sharing them with friends.

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Packed with protein to fuel your day
Can be customized with your favorite toppings
A healthy and satisfying alternative to traditional bagels

The Importance of Whole Wheat Flour

Using whole wheat flour in these Peanut Butter Protein Bagels not only boosts the fiber content but also lends a nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste. Whole wheat flour provides a heartier texture than regular all-purpose flour, helping the bagels maintain their shape during baking. If you find the whole wheat flavor too strong, you can substitute half of the whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour to achieve a lighter bagel while still retaining some health benefits.

When measuring whole wheat flour, I recommend spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off instead of scooping directly from the bag, which can compact the flour. This method ensures that you don’t end up with too much flour in your dough, which could result in a dense bagel.

Getting That Perfect Bagel Texture

The key to achieving the ideal textured bagel lies in how you knead and shape the dough. When mixing, aim for a dough that is slightly tacky but not overly sticky. If you find it difficult to handle, lightly dust your hands with flour while shaping. Roll each piece into a tight rope to ensure even cooking and a uniform look. The final bagel should have a smooth surface after shaping, which will help prevent cracks during baking.

Baking is another critical step to watch closely. Keep an eye on the bagels as they approach the 20-minute mark; you want them to turn a golden brown with firm edges. If they start to brown too quickly, you can reduce the oven temperature by 25°F and extend the baking time to ensure they cook through without burning.

Serving and Customizing

These Peanut Butter Protein Bagels are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or customized with your favorite toppings. I love spreading a layer of banana slices or a drizzle of maple syrup on top before serving for a sweeter breakfast option. Alternatively, top with sliced apples and cinnamon for a delicious afternoon snack. Feel free to experiment with toppings; just be mindful of the added calories and nutrients if you're keeping track.

For meal prep, these bagels store well in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just slice them beforehand to make it easier to toast directly from the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy one, toast it for 5-6 minutes in a toaster or oven until heated through and crispy. This way, you always have a quick, protein-packed breakfast ready to go!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 tbsp honey (optional)
Water as needed

With these ingredients ready, let's move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, peanut butter, Greek yogurt, baking powder, and salt. If you wish, add honey for sweetness. Mix until combined. If the dough is too dry, add water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches a workable consistency.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and shape it into a bagel by pinching the ends together. Place the formed bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bagels for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before enjoying.

Now, enjoy your freshly baked bagels!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different nut butters or mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit for added flavor! These bagels freeze well, so make a batch and store them for busy mornings!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a nut-free alternative, consider using sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter. It will provide a similar creaminess and flavor, and it’s especially great for those with nut allergies. You might want to adjust the sweetness, as sunflower seed butter can be less sweet compared to peanut butter, so consider adding a bit more honey if desired.

For a dairy-free option, you can replace Greek yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt alternative. Look for one that's thick and creamy, as this will closely mimic the texture that Greek yogurt provides. Not only will this maintain the moisture and binding aspects of the recipe, but it also keeps the bagels light and fluffy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels turn out too tough, it could be due to overmixing the dough. When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is combined to keep the gluten from developing too much. A tender bagel is preferable, and it will yield a lighter texture that is easier to chew.

Another common issue is a bagel that spreads too much while baking. This is usually a result of insufficient shaping. Ensure that the bagels are tightly formed into rings before baking. If they do flatten out during baking, you can try refrigerating the shaped bagels for about 30 minutes before placing them in the oven to firm them up, which helps them hold their shape better.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger batches. If you want to make more bagels, simply double or triple the ingredients while maintaining the same ratios. However, be mindful of the mixing and baking time; you may need to bake in batches to ensure even cooking, especially if using a smaller baking sheet.

When scaling, consider that larger batches may incorporate air differently. It's a good practice to keep an eye on the dough's texture as you mix to ensure that it remains just the right consistency. If necessary, add a little more water to achieve that perfect balance for the dough.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Absolutely! Almond butter works wonderfully and adds a different flavor profile.

→ How long do these bagels last?

In an airtight container, they can last about 3-5 days at room temperature or up to a month in the freezer.

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

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but whole wheat adds more nutrients and fiber.

→ What can I top my bagels with?

Try adding sliced bananas, a drizzle of honey, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor!