Name: High Protein Bagel Bites Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup + 4 teaspoons vital wheat gluten; ½ cup + 2 teaspoons all-purpose or bread flour; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar; ½ cup water; 5 tablespoons vegan cream cheese, divided; 2 to 3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 46 reviews

If you’re craving a snack that’s both satisfying and packed with nutrients, this High Protein Bagel Bites Recipe is going to be your new best friend. These bagel bites deliver a whopping 37 grams of protein per serving, making them perfect not only for breakfast or brunch but also as a powerful anytime pick-me-up. Soft, flavorful, and so easy to whip up, this recipe is ideal for meal prepping or sharing with loved ones. Trust me, once you make these, your snack game will never be the same!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a single large scoop of light brown dough with a rough, slightly airy texture inside a white bowl with tiny black speckles. The dough is placed centrally in the bowl, which is on a surface with a white marbled texture. The dough looks soft and lumpy with small holes and uneven shapes on its surface, filling most of the bowl’s bottom. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Amazing dishes start with simple ingredients, and this High Protein Bagel Bites Recipe is no exception. Each component is carefully chosen to contribute to the wonderful taste, texture, and overall appeal of the bagel bites. From the vital wheat gluten providing that chewy, bread-like quality to the tangy vegan cream cheese and punchy everything bagel seasoning, every ingredient pulls its weight.

½ cup + 4 teaspoons vital wheat gluten: The star protein-packed flour that gives these bites their chewy, bagel-like texture.
½ cup + 2 teaspoons all-purpose or bread flour: Adds structure and balance to the dough.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dough.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Provides a slight rise, keeping the bagel bites light and fluffy.
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar: Adds a subtle tang and reacts with baking powder to help leaven the dough.
½ cup water: Brings the dough together with the perfect consistency.
5 tablespoons vegan cream cheese, divided: Adds creamy richness inside every bite.
2 to 3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning: The classic topping that gives these bites their irresistible flavor and crunch.

How to Make High Protein Bagel Bites Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C), so it’s ready for your perfect bagel bites. In a medium bowl, mix together the vital wheat gluten, flour, salt, and baking powder. This is also the moment to add any extra seasonings you love, like garlic powder or onion powder, for a personalized flavor punch.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients and Form Dough

Next, stir in the apple cider vinegar and water until the mixture forms a sticky dough ball. This dough is your base, rich in protein and ready to be shaped into those iconic bagel bites. Don’t worry if it feels a bit sticky — that’s how you want it!

Step 3: Shape Your Bagel Bites

Divide the dough into 8 equal balls. Press each ball into a flat circle about 4 to 5 inches wide, then spoon about 2 teaspoons of vegan cream cheese into the center. Fold the edges over the filling, pinch to seal, and roll it gently into a neat ball again. For a flavor boost, dip each bite into the everything bagel seasoning before placing them on a lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake your bagel bites at 425°F for 20 minutes, until they turn golden brown and smell absolutely delicious. When they come out of the oven, set them aside to cool for about 10 minutes. This little wait helps the flavors meld and ensures they’re just warm enough to enjoy without losing that perfect texture.

How to Serve High Protein Bagel Bites Recipe

The image shows a green baking tray with a white liner inside, holding eight round baked buns arranged in two neat columns of four. Each bun is golden brown and covered with a mix of toasted sesame seeds, white sesame seeds, and other small seeds, giving a textured and crunchy look. The buns have an uneven, slightly rough surface with some visible cracks and crumbs scattered around them. The tray is set on a white marbled surface, creating a clean and bright background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These bagel bites are already bursting with flavor, but a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, or even a touch of crushed red pepper flakes can add freshness and a splash of color. A tiny drizzle of olive oil or a dab of extra cream cheese on top is a lovely finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Pair your High Protein Bagel Bites with a crisp green salad or a fresh fruit bowl to keep the meal balanced and vibrant. A tangy tomato soup or a smooth avocado dip can also complement these bites perfectly for a heartier option.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, arrange these bagel bites in a circle on a platter with small bowls of dipping sauces like marinara, vegan ranch, or spicy mustard in the center. This makes for a visually appealing snack tray perfect for sharing during brunch or casual get-togethers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers from your High Protein Bagel Bites feast, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful, making it easy to grab a quick protein-packed snack when hunger strikes.

Freezing

Want to prepare these in advance and freeze them? Absolutely! After baking and cooling completely, place the bagel bites on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. This method keeps them ready to enjoy without sticking together.

Reheating

To reheat your frozen or refrigerated bagel bites, pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain their delightful texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of vegan cream cheese?

Definitely! If you’re not avoiding dairy, regular cream cheese works just as well to give that creamy center. Just use your preferred type and quantity.

Is vital wheat gluten necessary for this recipe?

Vital wheat gluten is essential here because it provides the high protein content and the chewy texture that makes these bagel bites stand out. Substituting it would change the texture significantly.

How can I make these bagel bites gluten-free?

Unfortunately, this particular recipe relies on vital wheat gluten, so it’s not suited for gluten-free diets. However, experimenting with gluten-free flours and binding agents may help you craft your own version.

Can I add other fillings besides cream cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with fillings like spinach and vegan cheese, pepperoni-style slices, or even sun-dried tomatoes for different flavors and textures.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, you can easily double or triple the quantities. Just be sure to have enough baking sheets and space in your oven to bake them evenly.

Final Thoughts

Making the High Protein Bagel Bites Recipe is such a rewarding experience because it blends simplicity with deliciousness and nutrition seamlessly. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or someone who loves flavorful snacks, these bagel bites have got you covered. Give them a try—you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly tasty and protein-packed they are!