Whole Wheat High Protein Bagels

Name: Whole Wheat High Protein Bagels
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups whole wheat flour; 1 cup bread flour; 2 tablespoons protein powder; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast; 1 cup warm water (approximately 110°F); 1 tablespoon honey (for boiling water); Sesame seeds; Everything bagel seasoning; Cheese

Highlighted under: Light Food Studio

I love making my own bagels at home, especially when they are packed with nutrients like in these Whole Wheat High Protein Bagels. The combination of whole wheat flour and protein-packed ingredients makes these bagels not only healthier but also incredibly satisfying. I enjoy customizing them with different toppings, and the chewy texture always reminds me of those bakery-style bagels. Perfect for breakfast or a quick snack, they provide the energy I need to start my day right!

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-02-10T18:37:36.433Z

Making these Whole Wheat High Protein Bagels has been a game-changer for my mornings. I used to overlook bagels thinking they were just empty carbs, but this recipe changes that. The blend of whole wheat flour and additional protein sources has made me rethink how to enjoy this classic bread. When I first tried to add protein powder to the dough, I was worried about the texture, but oh, was I surprised! The bagels turned out perfectly chewy and delicious.

One of the secrets I discovered is the boiling step before baking. It enhances the bagel's chewy exterior and gives it that authentic bagel bite. I make sure to add a tablespoon of honey to the boiling water, which adds a hint of sweetness to the crust. These bagels are now my go-to not just for breakfast but for any time I want a hearty snack!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Packed with whole grains and high in protein
Deliciously chewy texture with a perfect crust
Customizable with your favorite toppings

The Role of Whole Wheat Flour

In these bagels, whole wheat flour serves as a primary ingredient, imparting not only a nutty flavor but also vital nutrients like fiber and B vitamins. This type of flour helps create a heartier texture compared to all-purpose flour, contributing to the satisfaction you'll feel after enjoying these bagels. Just remember, the moisture absorption of whole wheat flour is different, so if your dough seems too dry during mixing, a splash of water can help achieve the right consistency.

Using whole wheat flour also affects the fermentation process. It tends to ferment more slowly than white flour, allowing for deeper flavor development while maintaining the nutritional benefits. If you're short on time, a pre-mixed whole grain flour can be a convenient substitute, but be aware that the resulting flavor and nutrition may differ slightly.

Perfecting the Boiling Technique

Boiling bagels is a crucial step that contributes to their characteristic chewiness. The honey added to the boiling water not only enhances the flavor but helps achieve a glossy crust once baked. Ensure your water is at a rolling boil before adding the bagels; this is key for a proper surface texture. If your bagels sink instead of floating, they may not have risen enough during their resting period—giving them more time to rise can remedy this.

Boil each bagel for about 30 seconds on each side; this time is essential for building the right texture. If you prefer a softer bagel, reduce the boiling time, but be careful, as this can affect the final chew. For a more pronounced flavor profile, you can experiment with adding barley malt syrup to your boiling water as a natural sweetener.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup bread flour
2 tablespoons protein powder
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
1 cup warm water (approximately 110°F)
1 tablespoon honey (for boiling water)

For Toppings (optional)

Sesame seeds
Everything bagel seasoning
Cheese

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix whole wheat flour, bread flour, protein powder, sugar, salt, and yeast. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Rest the Dough

Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes in a warm area, allowing the dough to rise slightly.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center and stretch to form a bagel shape.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water with honey to a boil. Boil each bagel for about 30 seconds on each side, then remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place boiled bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Add toppings if desired. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the bagels to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy fresh or toasted with your favorite spread!

Enjoy Your Bagels!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding chopped herbs or diced sun-dried tomatoes to your dough. Make sure to enjoy them fresh for the best texture and taste!

Storage and Freezing Tips

Once your bagels have cooled, they can be stored in a sealed bag at room temperature for about 2-3 days. If you'd like to keep them fresh for a longer period, consider freezing them. Place the cooled bagels in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply toast them directly from frozen, or for softer bagels, let them thaw at room temperature before toasting.

If you plan to enjoy a variety of toppings, you can also prepare a batch of plain bagels and freeze them. This will give you flexibility for quick breakfasts. Reheating them in the oven can also restore some of that freshly baked texture.

Customizing Your Bagels

These bagels serve as a fantastic base for all kinds of toppings, whether sweet or savory. Popular options include sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or a sprinkle of cheese before baking, which adds a delightful savory crunch. For a sweet twist, try adding a mix of cinnamon and sugar to your dough, or topping them with a cream cheese spread infused with fruits or herbs after they’re baked.

Feel free to get creative with your bagel recipes by incorporating different spices, seeds, or even cheese into the dough. Mixing in diced vegetables or herbs can also elevate the flavor and add nutritional benefits. Keep track of your variations, as you might discover a new favorite!

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, but using whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients to the bagels.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer shelf life.

→ Can I add flavorings to the dough?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs to enhance the flavor.

→ Is it necessary to boil the bagels?

Yes, boiling the bagels before baking is crucial for achieving that chewy texture and shiny crust.