Spinach Feta High-Protein Bagels

Name: Spinach Feta High-Protein Bagels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups bread flour; 1 cup whole wheat flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 tablespoon active dry yeast; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup warm water

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Meals

I absolutely love making these Spinach Feta High-Protein Bagels as a nutritious and delicious start to my day. The combination of fresh spinach and tangy feta creates a flavor that’s not only satisfying but also unique. With a protein boost from Greek yogurt, these bagels keep me full and energized throughout the morning. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make at home, allowing me to control the ingredients and enjoy them warm right out of the oven. Trust me; once you try them, you won’t want to go back to store-bought!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-27T14:22:28.204Z

When I first decided to make these Spinach Feta High-Protein Bagels, I was skeptical about how well the flavors would blend. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the deliciously balanced taste that came out of my kitchen. The process was straightforward, and I couldn't believe how easy it was to incorporate so much goodness into a bagel!

To make the dough, I recommend using a mix of bread flour and whole wheat for added texture and nutrition. It’s also crucial not to over-knead the dough, as that can lead to tougher bagels. The result is a tender, protein-packed bagel that's perfect for breakfast or a snack!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with protein to keep you full longer
Savory spinach and feta flavor combination
Home-baked freshness that beats store-bought

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh spinach not only enhances the flavor of your bagels but also adds vital nutrients. Spinach is rich in iron and vitamins A, C, and K, making these bagels a more healthful option compared to traditional recipes. I recommend using spinach that’s bright green and free of wilting to ensure peak freshness. If you’re short on fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach as an alternative, but be sure to thoroughly drain it before adding it to the dough to avoid excess moisture.

Feta cheese is another key player in this recipe. Its tangy and creamy characteristics complement the earthiness of the spinach beautifully. Opt for a good quality Greek feta for the best flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can substitute it with goat cheese, though this will alter the final flavor profile slightly. Crumbling the feta yourself allows for a fresher taste compared to pre-crumbled options.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

If your dough isn’t rising as expected, check the temperature of your yeast and water mixture. The water should be warm but not hot—between 100°F and 110°F is ideal. If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising. Always allow the yeast to sit until it becomes frothy; this indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic in your dough.

Another common issue is over-kneading the dough, which can lead to dense bagels. Aim for a smooth and elastic texture after about 8 minutes of kneading. If you find your dough too sticky, sprinkle a small amount of flour, but be cautious not to overdo it, as too much flour can dry out the bagels. They should be slightly tacky but not sticking to your hands.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start making your bagels:

For the Bagels

2 cups bread flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup warm water

Ensure all ingredients are measured accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Spinach Feta High-Protein Bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, whole wheat flour, salt, and sugar. In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Add the Greek yogurt, spinach, and feta cheese to the flour mixture, followed by the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest in a warm place for 30 minutes or until doubled in size.

Shape the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 6 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and poke a hole in the middle to form a bagel shape.

Bake

Place the bagels on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before enjoying!

Enjoy your homemade bagels fresh or store them in an airtight container for later!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding herbs like dill or oregano to the dough. You can also top the bagels with sesame seeds before baking for a nice crunch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These bagels can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they also store well. To keep them fresh for several days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Allow the baked bagels to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

If you want to prepare these bagels ahead of time, you can make the dough the night before. After kneading, let the dough rise for about 30 minutes, then punch it down and place it in the fridge overnight. The next morning, shape the bagels, let them rise again for about 30 minutes, and then bake. This method deepens the flavors and results in an even more delicious bagel.

Variations to Try

While spinach and feta are a classic combination, don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients. You could incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even herbs like dill or basil to give your bagels a new twist. If you want a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top before baking. These variations can bring a new depth of flavor and keep your breakfast routine exciting.

For a vegan option, consider using a flaxseed meal or chia seed substitute for the Greek yogurt. Combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water, allow it to sit until it thickens, and use it in place of yogurt. Additionally, swap feta with a vegan cheese alternative to maintain the flavor profile while accommodating dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Absolutely! Once baked, let the bagels cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag.

→ What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

You can use plain unsweetened yogurt or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.

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

They should be golden brown and have a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom.

→ Can I add other toppings?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with toppings such as everything bagel seasoning or a sprinkle of cheese.