Flaxseed Protein Breakfast Bagels

Name: Flaxseed Protein Breakfast Bagels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups whole wheat flour; 1/2 cup ground flaxseed; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 cup warm water; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp instant yeast; Sesame seeds for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen

I love starting my day with a healthy and hearty breakfast, and these Flaxseed Protein Breakfast Bagels have become my go-to option. Packed with protein and fiber, they not only curb my hunger but also fuel my morning workouts. The nutty flavor of flaxseed combined with the chewy texture of bagels makes them satisfying and delicious. I often top them with cream cheese and smoked salmon for a classic twist or enjoy them toasted with avocado. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to make them every morning!

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-02-16T01:55:35.722Z

When I first experimented with making bagels at home, I was amazed at how easy it was to create a healthier version without sacrificing flavor. The addition of ground flaxseed enhances not only the nutritional profile but also gives the bagels a lovely texture. I’ve learned that letting the dough rest is crucial; it makes shaping the bagels so much easier and yields a better rise during baking.

One of my favorite tips is to sprinkle sesame seeds on top before baking for added crunch and a wonderful flavor contrast. These bagels hold up beautifully in the freezer, allowing me to prepare a batch in advance, making breakfast a breeze on busy mornings!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
High in protein and fiber to keep you satisfied
Nutty flavor and chewy texture that's irresistible
Versatile for toppings, making breakfast exciting

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of whole wheat flour and ground flaxseed not only provides a hearty foundation for these bagels but also contributes to their unique nutritional profile. Whole wheat flour is rich in fiber, promoting digestive health, while ground flaxseed adds omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. These ingredients work synergistically to create a satisfying and nourishing breakfast option that keeps you feeling full longer.

When it comes to sweetening your bagels, you have the option of using honey or maple syrup. Both act as natural sweeteners and enhance the flavor while providing moisture. If you want to reduce sugar altogether, consider replacing these with a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol, adjusting the amount to suit your taste. This flexibility allows you to customize the bagels to fit your dietary needs.

Perfecting the Bagel Shape

Shaping the bagels is a crucial step in creating the classic texture and appearance. After shaping the dough into balls, make sure to poke a hole gently in the center with your thumb. This hole should be about one inch in diameter to prevent it from closing up during baking. If the holes close up, you can try gently reshaping your bagels before they enter the oven. Taking this extra care ensures they bake evenly and maintain their chewy signature texture.

Allowing the bagels to rest after shaping is key for gluten development. This resting time not only enhances the texture but also helps the bagels rise slightly, resulting in a lighter, airier chew. Keep them covered with a clean kitchen towel to prevent them from drying out while they proof. If you find they aren't rising enough, you might need to check the freshness of your yeast; expired yeast can lead to dense bagels.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These bagels store beautifully, making them a great make-ahead breakfast option. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to three months. For best results, slice them before freezing so you can easily toast individual bagels whenever the craving strikes. To reheat, just pop them in the toaster or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

For toppings, think beyond cream cheese and smoked salmon—though those are delightful classics! Try pairing with cottage cheese, fresh herbs, or even nut butter for a protein-packed start to your day. You can also experiment with savory toppings, such as a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or fresh tomatoes, to complement the nutty flavor of the bagels. The options are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

2 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 cup ground flaxseed
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 cup warm water
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp instant yeast
Sesame seeds for topping (optional)

Make sure everything is fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, ground flaxseed, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the honey (or maple syrup), warm water, olive oil, and instant yeast. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

Knead and Shape

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Divide the dough into six equal portions, roll each into a ball, then poke a hole through the center to shape them into bagels.

Rest and Preheat

Place the bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them rest for 20 minutes while you preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bake

Once rested, sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired. Bake the bagels for 15 minutes, until golden brown.

Let the bagels cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding spices like garlic powder or onion powder into the dough.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your bagels come out denser than expected, check the proportion of your ingredients, especially the flour. Too much flour can lead to dryness, while too little can cause the bagels to collapse. I recommend measuring flour by weight for accuracy. Additionally, making sure your yeast is active before mixing it in is crucial; proof it in warm water with a little honey or sugar to see if it bubbles up, indicating it’s still good to use.

Another common issue is bagels that appear flat or don’t hold their shape. Always ensure that they’ve rested adequately before baking, which allows them to develop strength. If you find they are losing their shape in the oven, it could be beneficial to try a larger baking sheet with more space between each bagel, allowing them to rise and maintain their structure.

Customizing Your Bagels

Feel free to add fun flavors or mix-ins to the bagel dough for a personalized touch. Chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruits can be incorporated into the dough for added texture and taste. Just be mindful of the total volume of ingredients so that the dough remains manageable and easy to shape. Experimenting with spices such as cinnamon or herbs like rosemary can also yield delightful flavor variations.

For those who are sensitive to gluten or prefer a grain-free option, consider substituting the whole wheat flour with almond or coconut flour. However, keep in mind that this may change the texture and moisture content of the bagels, requiring adjustments to the other ingredients, such as increasing the liquid or adding an egg for binding.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular flour instead of whole wheat flour?

Yes, but keep in mind it may alter the texture and nutritional value of the bagels.

→ How can I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ What can I top these bagels with?

They are great with cream cheese, avocado, or smoked salmon. You can also add various spreads!

→ Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in dried herbs or garlic powder for added flavor.