Activate the Yeast: In your mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and honey or maple syrup. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the olive oil and Greek yogurt to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine.

Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the bread flour, protein powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for 6-8 minutes. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it's too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency.

First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Punch Down the Dough: Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air.

Divide the Dough: Divide the dough into 8 equal portions.

Shape the Bagels: Roll each portion into a rope about 8-10 inches long. Bring the ends together to form a circle, overlapping them by about an inch. Press down firmly to seal the ends together. You can also create a traditional bagel shape by poking a hole in the center of each dough ball and stretching it out to about 2 inches in diameter.

Second Rise: Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 15-20 minutes while you prepare the boiling liquid.

Prepare the Boiling Liquid: In a large pot, bring the water, honey or maple syrup, and baking soda to a boil.

Boil the Bagels: Gently drop 2-3 bagels into the boiling water at a time. Boil for 1 minute per side.

Return to Baking Sheet: Remove the boiled bagels with a slotted spoon or spider strainer and place them back on the prepared baking sheet.

Egg Wash and Sesame Seeds: Brush the tops of the bagels with the beaten egg. Then, sprinkle generously with sesame seeds.

Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the bagels for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Cool: Let the bagels cool on a wire rack before slicing and enjoying.