These almond flour bagels are soft on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and perfect for anyone looking for a wholesome, gluten-free alternative to classic bagels. They’re easy to make at home, naturally grain-free, and ideal for both sweet and savory toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bagels are made with simple pantry ingredients and come together quickly without yeast or long rising times. They have a satisfying chew, are naturally gluten-free, and fit well into low-carb and wholesome eating lifestyles. They’re also versatile, so you can enjoy them plain, toasted, or customized with your favorite flavors.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups almond flour (finely ground, blanched)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons cream cheese
1 large egg
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
In a microwave-safe bowl, add mozzarella cheese and cream cheese. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until fully melted and smooth.
Add the melted cheese mixture to the dry ingredients.
Mix in the egg, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil. Stir until a thick dough forms.
Knead the dough gently with your hands until smooth and well combined.
Divide the dough into 4 equal portions.
Roll each portion into a log and shape it into a bagel by joining the ends.
Place the bagels on the prepared baking tray.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 bagels
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

You can easily customize these almond flour bagels to suit your taste. Add sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top before baking for a classic finish. For a slightly sweet version, mix in 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon. For savory bagels, add garlic powder, dried herbs, or finely chopped olives to the dough.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, toast directly from the fridge or freezer, or warm in a preheated oven at 160°C (325°F) for a few minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make these bagels dairy-free?

You can experiment with dairy-free cheese alternatives, but the texture may vary since melted cheese helps bind the dough.

Are almond flour bagels gluten-free?

Yes, almond flour is naturally gluten-free, making these bagels suitable for gluten-free diets.

Can I use almond meal instead of almond flour?

Almond meal is coarser and will result in denser bagels. Finely ground almond flour works best.

Why is my dough sticky?

Warm cheese can make the dough sticky. Let it cool slightly and lightly oil your hands before shaping.

Can I make these bagels in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 170°C (340°F) for about 12–15 minutes, checking for even browning.

How do I get a more golden top?

You can brush the tops with a little beaten egg before baking.

Can I add seeds inside the dough?

Yes, sesame seeds, flaxseeds, or sunflower seeds can be mixed directly into the dough.

Are these bagels low carb?

They are lower in carbohydrates compared to traditional wheat-based bagels.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in batches if needed.

Do these bagels taste like regular bagels?

They have a different texture but still offer a satisfying chew and rich flavor.

Conclusion

Almond flour bagels are a delicious and nourishing alternative to traditional bagels, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or sandwiches. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe lets you enjoy homemade bagels that fit a variety of dietary needs while still tasting comforting and satisfying.