High Protein Bagels With Egg Wash Shine

Name: High Protein Bagels With Egg Wash Shine
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 10 bagels
Ingredients: 3 cups high-protein flour; 1 tablespoon instant yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 cup warm water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon water

Highlighted under: Simple & Speedy

I love making my own bagels because they can be tailored to my tastes and nutritional needs. These High Protein Bagels with Egg Wash Shine are my go-to breakfast treat when I want something healthy yet indulgent. By using a mix of high-protein flour and a simple egg wash, I managed to create a shiny, decadent-looking bagel that's perfect for toasting or enjoying on its own. Just the aroma while they're baking fills my kitchen with warmth and happiness.

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:52:12.887Z

When I first experimented with these bagels, I was surprised at how easy they were to make from scratch! The combination of protein-rich ingredients not only makes them healthier but also gives them a satisfying chew. I found that allowing the bagels to rest before baking made a huge difference in their texture.

One of my favorite tricks is to use an egg wash before baking. It gives the bagels a beautiful golden shine and enhances that bakery-style finish. Every bite is both nourishing and delicious, making them an ideal morning boost.

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Packed with protein to keep you full throughout the morning
Beautiful shine from the egg wash makes them look bakery-fresh
Customizable with your favorite toppings like seeds or herbs

The Role of High-Protein Flour

Using high-protein flour is key to achieving that perfect chewy bagel texture. This type of flour, often found in bread-making, contains more gluten, which develops when kneaded. As you knead the dough, you’ll notice it becoming elastic, indicative of gluten development. This process is vital for bagels, as it ensures that they hold their shape during boiling and baking, providing the delightful chewiness that makes a good bagel stand out.

If high-protein flour is hard to find, you can easily make your own by mixing all-purpose flour with vital wheat gluten—just add a couple of tablespoons of gluten to every cup of all-purpose flour. This substitution maintains the intended texture and structure, ensuring that your bagels have that authentic chewy quality even if the specific flour isn't available.

Perfecting the Bagel Shape

Shaping bagels is an art form that impacts their final appearance and texture. When rolling the dough into balls, ensure you create a nice surface tension by tucking the dough tightly under itself. This technique helps the bagels rise beautifully and retain their form while baking. After poking a hole through each ball, you can gently stretch it to form the classic bagel shape—aim for a hole that's about two inches in diameter as it will shrink slightly during cooking.

Make sure to let the shaped bagels rest for at least 15 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the gluten to relax, preventing them from puffing up too much during boiling and baking. Skipping this step can result in bagels that are too soft or lack the density typical of traditional bagels.

Tips for the Perfect Egg Wash

The egg wash not only provides a beautiful golden hue to your bagels but also helps toppings stick better. For an even more lustrous finish, I recommend beating the egg and water until frothy; this aeration helps create a lighter sheen. Brush it on gently with a pastry brush, ensuring that the wash isn’t pooled in the holes of the bagels, as this can lead to uneven baking.

If you're looking for a vegan alternative to the egg wash, consider using a mixture of almond milk with a touch of maple syrup or cornstarch. This will still help create a nice sheen and can be a good way to adapt the recipe for plant-based diets without sacrificing appearance.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for these delicious bagels.

For the Bagels

3 cups high-protein flour
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Egg Wash

1 large egg
1 tablespoon water

Make sure to have everything ready before you begin the process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your bagels.

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the high-protein flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then poke a hole in the center, shaping it into a bagel. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let rest for 15 minutes.

Prepare the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush this mixture over the bagels for a shiny finish.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the bagels for 20 minutes or until they are golden brown. Allow to cool on a wire rack.

Enjoy your fresh bagels warm or toasted!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top of the egg wash before baking.

Storing and Freezing Your Bagels

Once baked, let your bagels cool completely on a wire rack to prevent moisture buildup. If you're planning to eat them within a couple of days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. However, for longer storage, consider freezing them—simply place cooled bagels in a freezer-safe bag, separating them with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

To reheat, take a frozen bagel directly from the freezer and toast it until golden brown, or for a softer texture, wrap it in a damp paper towel and microwave briefly until warmed through. This method revives their freshness, allowing you to enjoy a chewy bagel any time.

Customizing Your Bagels

One of the best parts about making bagels at home is the freedom to customize! Consider adding ingredients directly into the dough, such as garlic powder, onion flakes, or even shredded cheese for added flavor. Alternatively, sprinkle your favorite seeds or herbs on top after the egg wash; poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or everything bagel seasoning all add delightful textures and flavors.

For those who enjoy experimenting, you can try infusing the warm water with herbs or boiling the bagels in a flavored broth instead of plain water. This extra step can impart subtle flavors that enhance the overall taste experience, making your homemade bagels unique every time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels aren’t rising as expected, ensure that your yeast is active. Bloom the yeast in warm water (about 110°F/43°C) with some sugar to check if it becomes frothy after about 5 minutes; if not, it might be too old. Also, be mindful not to let your dough overproof, as this can result in flat bagels that lack that desirable chewiness.

If you encounter bagels that are too dense, it could be a result of inadequate kneading. Remember to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, which typically takes about 5 minutes. Over-kneading can lead to tough bagels, so pay attention to the texture. If your bagels end up too tough, consider decreasing the kneading time slightly next time or adjusting the flour amount to better suit your dough consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular flour instead of high-protein flour?

Yes, but the texture and protein content may differ.

→ How can I add flavors to the bagels?

You can mix in herbs, spices, or even cheese into the dough for added flavor.

→ What can I serve with these bagels?

They pair well with cream cheese, avocado, or your favorite spreads.

→ Can these bagels be frozen?

Absolutely! Just freeze them in a sealed bag, and toast them straight from the freezer when ready to eat.