If you’re craving a snack that feels indulgent but actually packs a serious nutritional punch, this High-Protein Bagel Bites Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Imagine soft, golden bagel bites bursting with creamy, dreamy cream cheese inside, wrapped in a high-protein dough thanks to Greek yogurt, and topped with flavorful seasonings like everything bagel spice or sweet cinnamon sugar. These bites are perfect for breakfast, a quick snack, or party appetizers, and they come together in no time with simple ingredients that give you maximum flavor and texture. Let’s dive in and make this delicious recipe that brings joy and protein in every bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps it simple but smart, using ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Each component plays a key role: the flour forms the base of the dough, the Greek yogurt brings that extra protein and moisture, while the cream cheese filling adds richness and creaminess. The toppings? They bring the final pop of texture and flavor that makes these bagel bites unforgettable.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour): This provides the structure for your bagel bites and you can swap in whole wheat for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.
- 2 tsp baking powder: Acts as a gentle leavening agent to keep the dough light and fluffy.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the dough’s taste.
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds protein, moisture, and a subtle tang that elevates the dough’s flavor.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Creates a shiny, golden crust when brushed on before baking.
- 4 oz cream cheese, cut into small cubes: The luscious filling that makes every bite melt-in-your-mouth irresistible.
- Everything bagel seasoning: Adds a savory blend of garlic, onion, sesame, and poppy seeds.
- Sesame seeds: For a nutty crunch and beautiful golden finish.
- Poppy seeds: Offer a subtle crunch and classic bagel vibe.
- Cinnamon sugar: Provides a sweet alternative topping that’s perfect for a breakfast twist.
How to Make High-Protein Bagel Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven or Air Fryer
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you’re baking, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your bites from sticking. If you’d rather use an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Either way, you want the perfect temperature set so your bagel bites come out crispy and golden.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This creates a light, even base for your dough and evenly distributes the leavening agent so your bites get just the right rise.
Step 3: Add Greek Yogurt and Form Dough
Next, add the Greek yogurt and stir until a soft dough forms. The yogurt not only gives you that extra protein boost but also keeps the dough tender and flavorful. Then, transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 1-2 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 4: Shape and Fill the Bagel Bites
Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a small disc and pop a cube of cream cheese right into the center. Now comes the fun part: wrap the dough all around the cream cheese, pinching the edges to seal in that creamy filling so it doesn’t escape during baking.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Brush each bagel bite with the beaten egg wash. This will help achieve that irresistible golden shine when baked. Sprinkle your choice of toppings — everything bagel seasoning for savory fans, sesame or poppy seeds for extra crunch, or cinnamon sugar for those who want to add a little sweetness to their day.
Step 6: Cook Until Golden and Delicious
If baking, place your bagel bites evenly spaced on the parchment-lined sheet and bake for 20-22 minutes until they turn golden brown and smell amazing. For air fryer cooking, place them in the basket without overcrowding and cook for 10-12 minutes until the exterior crisps up perfectly. Let them cool just a little before digging in — the cream cheese filling will be hot and oh-so-worth the wait!
How to Serve High-Protein Bagel Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Serving these bagel bites with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped chives or dill can add a bright, fresh flavor contrast to the rich cream cheese. A dash of smoked paprika or chili flakes also works wonders if you want to spice things up.
Side Dishes
Pair your High-Protein Bagel Bites Recipe with a crisp green salad or a bowl of mixed fruit to bring some lightness and freshness to the plate. For brunch vibes, they also go fabulously alongside scrambled eggs or a creamy avocado spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the bagel bites on a wooden serving platter with small bowls of flavored cream cheese dips or hummus for a fun appetizer spread. You can even stack them in a pyramid and put little flags on toothpicks for a cute party presentation that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover bagel bites, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps keep them fresh and ready to enjoy as a quick snack or breakfast on the go.
Freezing
These bagel bites freeze beautifully. Simply place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a resealable freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making them perfect for meal prep or whenever you want a high-protein snack ready in minutes.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the bagel bites in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or warm them up in an air fryer for a few minutes. This keeps their exterior nice and crisp while melting the cream cheese filling just right.
FAQs
Can I use flavored Greek yogurt in this High-Protein Bagel Bites Recipe?
While plain Greek yogurt is best for letting the savory or sweet toppings shine, you can experiment with mild flavors like vanilla for a sweeter version. Just keep in mind it may change the dough’s taste a bit.
Is it possible to make these bagel bites vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. The dough texture might vary slightly, but the bites will still be delicious.
Can I add other fillings besides cream cheese?
Absolutely! Try small pieces of ham, cooked bacon, or sautéed mushrooms for different flavor profiles. Just be sure your filling is compact enough to wrap inside without leaking.
Are these bagel bites suitable for freezing before baking?
Yes, you can shape and fill the bagel bites, then freeze them raw on a tray. When you’re ready, bake them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
What makes this a high-protein recipe?
The Greek yogurt dough combined with cream cheese filling significantly boosts the protein content compared to traditional bagel bites, making it a nourishing snack or meal addition.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got this easy and delicious High-Protein Bagel Bites Recipe in your culinary toolkit, I encourage you to give it a try and share it with your loved ones. These bagel bites are proof that snacks can be both satisfying and nourishing, perfect for any time you need a quick protein boost without compromising on flavor. Happy baking and even happier snacking!
Print
High-Protein Bagel Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These High-Protein Bagel Bites are a delicious and nutritious snack or breakfast option. Made with wholesome ingredients like Greek yogurt and cream cheese, they provide a satisfying protein boost in a convenient bite-sized form. You can customize the toppings with everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even a sweet cinnamon sugar for a delightful twist. Perfectly baked or air-fried until golden and crispy, these bagel bites are quick to prepare and ideal for a grab-and-go treat.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, cut into small cubes
Toppings
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Sesame seeds
- Poppy seeds
- Cinnamon sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven or Air Fryer: If using the oven, preheat to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. For air frying, preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) if your model requires preheating.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Add Yogurt to Form Dough: Add the plain Greek yogurt to the dry ingredients and mix until a cohesive dough forms, ensuring there are no dry spots.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 1-2 minutes until smooth and elastic, which helps develop structure.
- Divide the Dough: Cut the dough into 8 equal pieces to create uniform bagel bites.
- Fill with Cream Cheese: Flatten each dough piece into a small disc and place a cube of cream cheese in the center, preparing to encase the filling.
- Shape Bagel Bites: Wrap the dough around each cream cheese cube, sealing edges tightly to form smooth balls without any leaks.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush each ball with the beaten egg to give a glossy golden finish after baking or air frying.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle your choice of toppings such as everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or cinnamon sugar evenly over the egg-washed dough balls.
- Bake or Air Fry: For oven baking, arrange bagel bites on the baking sheet and bake for 20-22 minutes until golden brown. For air frying, place them in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes until crispy and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bagel bites cool slightly to avoid burns and enjoy them warm as a delicious snack or breakfast.
Notes
- You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
- If you don’t have Greek yogurt, use thick regular yogurt strained through a cheesecloth.
- Keep the dough slightly sticky for softer bagel bites; add extra flour only if necessary.
- Seal the dough edges carefully to prevent the cream cheese from leaking out during cooking.
- Customize toppings to your preference or try a sweet and savory combo with cinnamon sugar.
- These bagel bites are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
