Maple Walnut Protein Bagels

Name: Maple Walnut Protein Bagels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups whole wheat flour; 1 cup protein powder; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup water

Highlighted under: Balanced Meal Recipes

I love starting my day with a wholesome breakfast, and these Maple Walnut Protein Bagels have become my go-to. Packed with protein and heart-healthy walnuts, they're not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. The hint of maple syrup adds a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements the nutty flavor. Whether topped with cream cheese or enjoyed plain, these bagels are a delicious twist on a classic. Plus, they're easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T13:22:28.111Z

Experimenting with bagels has always intrigued me, and incorporating protein into my diet makes it even more fun. These Maple Walnut Protein Bagels came about when I wanted a breakfast that was both fulfilling and nutritious. The method of mixing the ingredients in a single bowl has saved me so much time, and the result is a dough that rises beautifully and bakes to perfection.

One tip I've learned is to toast the walnuts before adding them to the dough; this enhances their flavor, making every bite a delicious experience. I can’t resist a drizzle of extra maple syrup on top, which brings out the sweetness and ties all the flavors together. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for seconds!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Perfect balance of protein and flavor
Nutty crunch of walnuts in every bite
Sweet maple syrup for a delightful taste
Great for meal prep or a quick breakfast

Mastering the Bagel Shape

Shaping the dough into bagels is a fun yet crucial step in this recipe. Once you divide the dough into equal portions, ensure to roll each piece into a uniform ball to create a consistent texture. Poking a hole in the center with your finger should be done gently; if the hole is too small, it may seal up during boiling. Aim for about a one-inch diameter hole to ensure it stays open and creates that classic bagel shape.

If you're concerned about the bagels being too dense, consider gently stretching the dough after poking the hole. This technique helps create a light, airy texture, which is particularly enjoyable with the nutty bites of walnuts. Remember, the dough should feel soft and pliable, not overly sticky or dry. If it’s too sticky, a sprinkle of flour on your hands or the work surface can help.

Boiling for the Perfect Texture

Boiling the bagels is a key step that contributes to their chewy texture. When you drop them into simmering water, aim for a gentle boil rather than a rolling one; this helps them cook evenly without breaking apart. Boil each side for about two minutes to allow a slight firmness to develop. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they start to puff up slightly and float to the surface.

Once boiled, transferring the bagels to a parchment-lined baking sheet is essential for preventing sticking and ensuring they brown evenly. If you notice them sticking, it may be helpful to dust the sheet lightly with flour. Keep an eye on them in the oven as they bake; the ideal texture will be golden brown on the edges with a slightly glossy finish across the top, signaling they're ready to be enjoyed.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Maple Walnut Protein Bagels

For the Bagels

2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup protein powder
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup water

Optional toppings: Cream cheese, additional maple syrup, fresh fruit.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, protein powder, baking powder, and salt. Add the maple syrup and water gradually, mixing until a dough forms. Fold in the chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.

Shape the Bagels

Once the dough is mixed, divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and poke a hole in the center with your finger, gently stretching it to form a bagel shape.

Boil and Bake

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and carefully drop in the bagels, cooking them for about 2 minutes on each side. Transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Allow the bagels to cool before serving. Enjoy with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

To enhance flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an extra twist.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

While maple syrup enriches these bagels with natural sweetness, you can experiment with other sweeteners like agave syrup or honey if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor profiles will slightly differ; honey will give a floral note, while agave is milder. Additionally, consider adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with walnuts.

For a different texture, feel free to swap half the chopped walnuts for another type of nut, like pecans or almonds. Each nut brings its unique flavor enhancement and crunch. You could also try adding a handful of dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots to introduce a chewy sweetness, making them an even more satisfying breakfast treat.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

These Maple Walnut Protein Bagels are perfect for meal prep! Once baked and cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer; they freeze well for up to three months. Just wrap each bagel in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply toast or reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This revives that freshly-baked flavor and texture, making them just as delightful as when you first made them. Additionally, you can experiment with toppings like flavored cream cheeses or nut butters that will elevate your breakfast experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but it may alter the texture slightly.

→ How can I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for long-term storage.

→ Can I add other ingredients to the bagels?

Absolutely! Try adding seeds like sesame or poppy seeds for additional flavor and crunch.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free due to the whole wheat flour, but you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.