Maple Walnut Protein Bagels

Name: Maple Walnut Protein Bagels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup whole wheat flour; 1 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored); 1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 cup warm water; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Recipes

I absolutely love starting my mornings with Maple Walnut Protein Bagels. The combination of hearty walnuts and a touch of natural maple sweetness creates the perfect bite. These bagels not only taste great but are also packed with protein, making them an ideal choice for a healthy breakfast or snack. The best part is that they are easy to make at home, ensuring freshness every time. Whether enjoyed plain or toasted with a little butter, they set a delightful tone for the day ahead.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T13:50:28.955Z

When I decided to make protein bagels, I was looking for a recipe that didn't compromise on flavor. After several attempts, I found that incorporating ground walnuts not only elevated the taste but also added a delightful crunch. The maple syrup acts as a natural sweetener, giving these bagels a distinct charm. The dough comes together easily, making it a fun activity in the kitchen.

The trick to achieving the perfect chewy texture is boiling the bagels briefly before baking them. This method really sets them apart from regular bread and gives them that classic New York bagel characteristic. I can't wait for you to try this recipe!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Nutty flavor from toasted walnuts enhances the sweetness of maple syrup.
High in protein, perfect for an energizing breakfast.
Homemade goodness that’s fresher than store-bought.

The Role of Protein Powder

In these Maple Walnut Protein Bagels, protein powder serves a dual purpose. It not only boosts the protein content, making these bagels a great post-workout snack, but it also adds structure to the dough. When selecting protein powder, consider the flavor profile; vanilla can enhance the overall sweetness, while unflavored varieties allow the maple and walnut flavors to shine. Mixing it into the dry ingredients ensures even distribution and a consistent texture throughout the bagels.

It's also essential to choose a quality protein powder that blends well without clumping. If you notice clumps forming in your batter, try sifting the protein powder with the dry ingredients for a smoother mixture. This step prevents any grainy texture in the final baked product and guarantees a chewy, satisfying bite in each bagel.

Enhancing Flavor and Texture

Toasting the walnuts before folding them into the dough is a crucial step that enhances the nutty flavor. I recommend heating them in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. This not only elevates the taste but also adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the bagels. Ensure they are finely chopped so they distribute evenly throughout the dough, imparting flavor in every bite.

The boiling stage is also vital for achieving the perfect bagel texture. It's during this step that the outer crust forms, contributing to that chewy bite we all love. Make sure your water is at a rolling boil before adding the bagels; if the water cools down too much, it can lead to uneven cooking. Keep an eye on the bagels while they boil; they should fluff slightly and look shiny when they're ready to move to the oven.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make the Maple Walnut Protein Bagels:

Ingredients

1 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 cup warm water
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp vanilla extract

Once you have all the ingredients, we can move on to the preparation.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Maple Walnut Protein Bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, almond flour, protein powder, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, warm water, olive oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. Fold in the chopped walnuts.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and then poke a hole in the center to form a bagel shape. Gently stretch the hole to ensure it stays open during baking.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop each bagel into the boiling water, cooking for about 1-2 minutes on each side. This step helps achieve a chewy texture.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the boiled bagels on the sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Once the bagels are cool, enjoy them plain or with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some sesame seeds or oats on top of the bagels before baking for added texture and flavor.

Storage and Freezing Tips

These Maple Walnut Protein Bagels can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container, making them great for meal prepping. However, if you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them. Allow the bagels to cool completely after baking, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them straight into the toaster for a quick breakfast.

If you find your bagels getting a bit stale, reheating them in the oven is an excellent way to refresh their texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the bagels for about 5-7 minutes. This will revive their crispy exterior and soft interior, making them just as delightful as when they were freshly baked.

Serving Suggestions

These bagels are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a classic breakfast, try spreading some cream cheese and a drizzle of maple syrup on top for added richness. Alternatively, top them with sliced bananas and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a nutritious and satisfying meal that will keep you full throughout the morning.

Another delicious idea is to cut the bagels in half and make a sandwich. Fill them with smoked salmon, avocado, or a simple egg salad for a protein-packed lunch option. The nutty flavor of the walnuts complements a variety of toppings, allowing you to get creative and cater to your taste preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the protein powder?

Yes, you can use a plant-based or whey protein powder based on your dietary preferences.

→ 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 make these bagels gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I use instead of walnuts?

You can replace walnuts with pecans or omit nuts entirely if there are nut allergies.