Chocolate Chip Protein Bagels

Imagine biting into a soft, chewy bagel studded with melty chocolate chips, finished with a glossy peanut butter drizzle that adds richness and protein-packed goodness. These Chocolate Chip Protein Bagels combine the beloved comfort of a classic bagel with the nutritional benefits of protein powder, making them perfect for busy mornings or post-workout recovery. Whether you're fueling up for the day ahead or satisfying a sweet craving in a wholesome way, these bagels deliver on both taste and nutrition.

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The secret to these bagels lies in the balance between bread flour for structure and vanilla protein powder for a boost of nutrition. The traditional boiling step creates that signature chewy crust, while the chocolate chips melt slightly during baking, creating pockets of sweetness throughout. The peanut butter drizzle isn't just for show—it adds healthy fats and makes these bagels feel like a decadent treat while still supporting your wellness goals.

Ingredients

• Dry Ingredients: 2 cups (250 g) bread flour, 1 cup (100 g) vanilla protein powder, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 2 tsp instant dry yeast, 1/2 tsp salt
• Wet Ingredients: 3/4 cup (180 ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C), 1 tbsp melted unsalted butter (plus more for brushing)
• Add-ins: 1/2 cup (90 g) semisweet chocolate chips
• Water Bath: 2 quarts (2 liters) water, 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• Peanut Butter Drizzle: 1/4 cup (60 g) creamy peanut butter, 2 tbsp milk (dairy or plant-based), 1 tsp maple syrup or honey

Instructions

Step 1

In a large bowl, whisk together bread flour, protein powder, sugar, yeast, and salt.

Step 2

Add warm water and melted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3

Knead by hand or with a dough hook for 6–8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Step 4

Gently knead in chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

Step 5

Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 30–40 minutes or until nearly doubled.

Step 6

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 7

Punch down dough and divide into 6 equal pieces. Shape each into a ball, then poke a hole in the center and gently stretch to form a bagel shape.

Step 8

Bring 2 quarts water and honey/brown sugar to a gentle boil in a wide pot.

Step 9

Boil bagels in batches for 30 seconds per side; use a slotted spoon to transfer to prepared baking sheet.

Step 10

Brush bagels lightly with melted butter.

Step 11

Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly on a wire rack.

Step 12

For the peanut butter drizzle, whisk peanut butter, milk, and maple syrup/honey until smooth and pourable. Drizzle over cooled bagels before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

The key to perfect bagels is ensuring your water is at the right temperature—too hot will kill the yeast, while too cold won't activate it properly. When shaping the bagels, make the center hole slightly larger than you think necessary, as it will close up during boiling and baking. Don't skip the boiling step, as this is what gives bagels their distinctive chewy exterior and tender interior. For the drizzle, adjust the consistency by adding more milk if it's too thick or a bit more peanut butter if it's too runny.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Customize these bagels to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Substitute chocolate chips with dark chocolate chunks, white chocolate chips, or dried fruit like cranberries or raisins. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based protein powder, vegan butter, and non-dairy milk. Try different flavored protein powders such as chocolate or unflavored to change the base flavor profile. Instead of peanut butter drizzle, experiment with almond butter, cashew butter, or even a cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence.

Serviervorschläge

These bagels are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them further by slicing and spreading with additional peanut butter, cream cheese, or Greek yogurt. Serve warm with a cup of coffee or protein shake for a complete breakfast. They also make an excellent post-workout snack when paired with a banana or berries. For meal prep, bake a batch on Sunday and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze individually wrapped bagels for up to 3 months. Toast frozen bagels straight from the freezer for best results.

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These Chocolate Chip Protein Bagels prove that nutritious eating doesn't have to be boring. With their soft, chewy texture, sweet chocolate chips, and indulgent peanut butter drizzle, they satisfy both your taste buds and your body's need for quality fuel. Whether you're an athlete looking for a convenient protein source or simply someone who loves a good bagel with a healthy twist, this recipe delivers on every level. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week.

Recipe Questions

→ How do I achieve a chewy bagel texture?

Kneading the dough well and boiling the bagels briefly before baking helps develop the characteristic chewy texture.

→ Can chocolate chips be replaced with other add-ins?

Yes, dark chocolate chunks or dried fruit can be used as delicious alternatives to chocolate chips.

→ What is the purpose of boiling bagels before baking?

Boiling the bagels sets the crust and gives them their distinctive chewy exterior once baked.

→ How can I make the peanut butter drizzle smoother?

Whisk peanut butter with milk and maple syrup or honey until fully combined and pourable for an even drizzle.

→ Is it possible to make these bagels dairy-free?

Yes, by choosing plant-based protein powder and milk, and replacing butter with a vegan alternative, these bagels can be dairy-free.

→ What tools are helpful for preparing these bagels?

A large mixing bowl, dough hook or hands for kneading, baking sheet with parchment paper, slotted spoon for boiling, and wire rack for cooling are essential.