Flaxseed Protein Breakfast Bagels

Name: Flaxseed Protein Breakfast Bagels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup warm water (110°F); 2 tablespoons active dry yeast; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 2 cups whole wheat flour; 1 cup ground flaxseed; 1/2 cup whole flaxseeds; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Vitality Kitchen

I love experimenting with healthy breakfast options that don't compromise on flavor, and these Flaxseed Protein Breakfast Bagels are a perfect example. Packed with protein from flaxseeds and other wholesome ingredients, they offer a nutritious start to my day. After trying various recipes, I found that incorporating both whole flaxseeds and ground flaxseed adds a delightful texture and boosts the bagels' nutritional value. Whether topped with avocado, cream cheese, or your favorite spread, these bagels are a delicious way to power through the morning.

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-02-16T04:11:36.718Z

When I first made these bagels, I was pleasantly surprised by the incredible texture. Mixing whole flaxseeds into the dough along with ground flaxseed creates a satisfying chew while maximizing their health benefits. Flaxseeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, and adding them to my breakfast routine has made me feel more energized throughout the day.

One tip that I've discovered is to let the bagels rest for a few minutes after shaping them, as this helps to create a slightly firmer texture once baked. I've enjoyed pairing them with various toppings, but I always come back to a simple spread of cream cheese and fresh herbs for a balanced, tasty breakfast.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Boosts your morning with a protein-packed punch
Great texture that combines chewiness with crunch
Versatile base for sweet or savory toppings

The Role of Flaxseeds in Your Bagels

Flaxseeds play a crucial role in the nutritional profile of these bagels. Ground flaxseed not only contributes to the protein content but also provides omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Using whole flaxseeds introduces a delightful crunch that complements the chewy texture of the bagel. Make sure to store your ground flaxseed in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and preserve those healthy fats.

This recipe uses both ground and whole flaxseeds, balancing nutrition with texture. Ground flaxseed absorbs moisture, which helps bind the dough, while the whole seeds offer visual appeal and added fiber. If you're looking to reduce calories, you can replace part of the whole wheat flour with almond flour, but be aware that this may change the texture slightly, creating a softer bagel.

Perfecting Your Bagel Shape

Shaping your bagels correctly can make a huge difference in their final appearance and texture. After dividing the dough into equal pieces, be gentle when rolling them into balls to avoid deflating the risen dough too much. Use your fingers or a wooden spoon to create a hole in the center rather than forcing it, as this prevents the dough from tearing and results in more uniform bagels once baked.

As you shape the bagels, consider the size; make sure the holes are large enough since they will shrink slightly during baking. This technique allows the bagels to develop that signature chewy exterior while maintaining a soft inside. If you're looking for variety, try experimenting with different shapes like pretzel bagels by briefly boiling them in a baking soda solution before baking.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

1 cup warm water (110°F)
2 tablespoons active dry yeast
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup ground flaxseed
1/2 cup whole flaxseeds
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and honey or syrup. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, ground flaxseed, whole flaxseeds, and salt. Mix well. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then stir until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise for approximately 30 minutes.

Shape the Bagels

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and use your finger to make a hole in the center to form the bagel shape.

Bake the Bagels

Place the bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the bagels cool on a wire rack. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these bagels by adding ingredients like sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, or spices for added flavor and texture.

Storage and Freezing Tips

To keep these bagels fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Allow the bagels to cool completely on a wire rack before placing them in a resealable freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply toast them straight from the freezer for a quick breakfast.

If storing at room temperature, you may notice the bagels becoming stale. To restore moisture, you can lightly spritz them with water and reheat them briefly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, resulting in a lovely chewy texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Flaxseed Protein Breakfast Bagels are wonderfully versatile. For a savory option, try spreading avocado and a sprinkle of sea salt or top with smoked salmon and cream cheese for a delicious breakfast experience. If you’re leaning towards a sweeter approach, cream cheese paired with honey, or your favorite nut butter, and banana slices make for a satisfying treat.

For a touch of flair, consider adding herbs, garlic powder, or even nutritional yeast to the dough before baking, infusing additional flavor directly into the bagels. This customization allows you to tailor the bagel to your palate, making each breakfast a unique culinary experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I store these bagels?

Yes, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ What can I use as a topping?

These bagels pair wonderfully with cream cheese, hummus, avocado, or nut butter.

→ Can I use regular flour instead of whole wheat?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour, but it will alter the nutritional profile.

→ How do I know when the bagels are done baking?

They're done when they turn golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.