Garlic Herb Protein Bagels

There's something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bagels wafting through your kitchen. These Garlic Herb Protein Bagels take that classic breakfast staple and elevate it with a nutritious twist—infusing soft, chewy dough with aromatic garlic and a medley of herbs, while packing in extra protein to fuel your day. Topped with a creamy, zesty cottage cheese spread bursting with fresh chives and parsley, these bagels are a delicious way to start your morning or enjoy as a satisfying snack. Perfect for meal prep or weekend brunch, they bring together wholesome ingredients and bold flavors in every bite.

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Making bagels from scratch might seem intimidating, but this recipe breaks it down into simple, manageable steps. The process of boiling before baking is what gives bagels their signature chewy crust and tender interior. By incorporating protein powder into the dough, you're not only boosting the nutritional value but also creating a hearty texture that keeps you satisfied longer. The cottage cheese spread is the perfect companion—tangy, herb-flecked, and protein-rich, it transforms these bagels into a complete, balanced meal.

Ingredients

• For the Bagels: 2 cups (250 g) bread flour, 1 cup (120 g) unflavored whey protein powder, 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 ½ tsp salt, 1 tbsp dried mixed herbs (oregano, basil, parsley), 2 tsp garlic powder, 1 cup (240 ml) warm water (110°F/43°C), 1 tbsp olive oil
• For Boiling: 2 quarts (2 liters) water, 1 tbsp honey or sugar, 1 tsp baking soda
• For the Cottage Cheese Spread: 1 cup (225 g) cottage cheese, 2 tbsp fresh chives (finely chopped), 1 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped), 1 garlic clove (minced), ½ tsp lemon zest, salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour, protein powder, yeast, sugar, salt, dried herbs, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Mix and Knead

Add warm water and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 30–40 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 5: Shape the Bagels

Punch down the dough and divide into 6 equal portions. Shape each into a ball, then poke a hole in the center of each to form bagels.

Step 6: Boil the Bagels

Bring 2 quarts of water to a gentle boil. Add honey (or sugar) and baking soda. Boil each bagel for 45 seconds per side, then transfer to the prepared baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Cool on a rack.

Step 8: Make the Spread

For the spread, in a bowl, mix cottage cheese, chives, parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 9: Serve

Slice bagels and serve with a generous layer of cottage cheese spread.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, make sure your water is at the right temperature—too hot and it will kill the yeast, too cold and the dough won't rise properly. When shaping the bagels, make the center hole slightly larger than you think necessary, as it will shrink during boiling and baking. The boiling step is crucial for that authentic bagel texture, so don't skip it. If you prefer a smoother cottage cheese spread, use a blender or food processor to achieve a cream cheese-like consistency. The bagels are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Try adding sunflower or pumpkin seeds on top before baking for extra crunch and visual appeal. For gluten-free bagels, use a gluten-free bread flour blend, keeping in mind the texture may vary slightly. You can customize the herbs to your preference—try rosemary and thyme for a different flavor profile, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. For a vegan version, replace the whey protein with plant-based protein powder and use a dairy-free spread such as cashew cream blended with herbs. You can also experiment with different toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning.

Serviervorschläge

These bagels are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve them warm with the cottage cheese spread for a protein-packed breakfast, or toast them and top with smoked salmon, capers, and red onion for a more elegant brunch option. They're also delicious with scrambled eggs, avocado, or your favorite nut butter. For beverages, pair with a crisp, dry white wine or a light breakfast tea. The savory garlic and herb notes also complement a fresh green smoothie or a cup of strong coffee. These bagels work equally well as a pre-workout snack or post-workout recovery meal.

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These Garlic Herb Protein Bagels with Cottage Cheese Spread prove that nutritious eating doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. With their golden crust, tender crumb, and aromatic blend of garlic and herbs, they're a delicious way to upgrade your breakfast routine. Whether you're fueling up for a busy day, enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch, or simply craving a wholesome snack, these homemade bagels deliver on every level. The addition of protein powder and the creamy cottage cheese spread make them as nourishing as they are delicious, giving you the energy you need while treating your taste buds to something special.

Recipe FAQ

→ What does boiling the bagels before baking do?

Boiling sets the bagels’ surface, creating that distinctive chewy crust and helping the dough retain moisture during baking for a soft interior.

→ Can I substitute whey protein powder?

Yes, you can try plant-based protein powders, but this may slightly alter the taste and texture. Adjust liquid amounts as needed.

→ How do the herbs and garlic powder affect flavor?

Dried herbs add aromatic notes while garlic powder provides a savory depth, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering.

→ What is the role of honey and baking soda in boiling water?

Honey enhances browning and flavor during boiling, while baking soda raises water alkalinity to develop the bagels’ characteristic crust.

→ How can I make the cottage cheese spread smoother?

Blend the cottage cheese with herbs and seasonings until creamy and smooth for a more spreadable consistency.

→ Is it possible to add crunchy toppings?

Yes, sprinkling sunflower or pumpkin seeds adds texture and a nutty flavor when placed on the bagels before baking.