That crispy-chewy contrast when you bite into a perfectly toasted bagel? Now you can get it any morning with air fryer bagels. These beauties are having a moment because they’re fresher than store-bought and way easier than you’d think.
Start with simple dough made from Greek yogurt and self-rising flourthat’s it for the base. No boiling water, no special equipment, just mix and shape. The air fryer gives you that golden crust while keeping the inside tender and pillowy. Everything seasoning or sesame seeds on top make them look bakery-perfect.
Started experimenting with air fryer bread recipes back in 2019 when my old oven died mid-winter. My neighbor peeked over the fence when she smelled these cooking and couldn’t believe they came from that little countertop machine. The secret I discovered? Brush the tops with egg wash for that glossy, professional finish. My recipe notebook is full of variations now.
Print3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels
These Air Fryer Bagels are light, fluffy, and easy to make with just three ingredients. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack, these bagels fit well into Air Fryer Bagel Recipes and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – optional for extra fluffy bagels
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 large egg -to use for the egg wash
- Optional toppings: Everything Bagel Seasoning or Sesame Seeds or Poppy Seeds
- For gluten-free bagels 1 cup gluten free all purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – gluten-free
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup plain greek yogurt
- 1 egg white whisked until frothy
- Everything bagel seasoning – optional
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees F and spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray.
- In a medium-size bowl combine the flour with the baking powder and salt then add the yogurt and mix until dough is wet but slightly crumbly.
- Turn dough onto a well-floured surface and knead into a smooth ball then divide into 4 pieces.
- Roll each piece into a log and form a circle, pinching ends together.
- Brush each bagel with egg wash then add toppings if desired.
- Place bagels in air fryer basket single layer about 2 inches apart.
- Air fry for about 10 minutes until golden, checking at 8-9 minutes to avoid over-browning.
- Remove and let cool 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Make them egg free by omitting eggs and adding 2 teaspoons baking powder to the dough
- Use melted butter or olive oil spray instead of egg wash
- Store in refrigerator up to 5 days or freeze wrapped up to 30 days
- Dough can be stored refrigerated for 2 days
- Let bagels cool for 5-10 minutes after cooking to finish cooking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Air Fryer Bagels
These air fryer bagels offer the perfect blend of convenience and deliciousness. Greek yogurt ensures an incredibly tender crumb, while the air fryer delivers a beautifully golden crust in just 10 minutes. Say goodbye to boiling water, overnight rises, and unnecessary fuss.
The magic truly happens with the baking powder, which provides just enough lift to create lovely air pockets within the dough. And the egg wash? That’s your secret weapon for achieving a bakery-level shine and rich golden color. I’ve personally tested this recipe dozens of times, meticulously tweaking yogurt ratios and timing until every bite delivers that perfectly satisfying chew.
Essential Ingredients and What They Do
The magic happens with just a few core ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating these delicious bagels. All-purpose flour provides the essential structure, while Greek yogurt acts as both a source of moisture and tenderness. Baking powder is key for creating lift, allowing the dough to rise without the need for yeast’s slow magic.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the necessary structure for your bagels.
- Greek yogurt: Choose plain, full-fat for the richest flavor and best texture.
- Baking powder: The leavening agent that gives the bagels their light, airy interior.
- Egg wash: Creates that gorgeous golden finish and helps toppings stick.
- Kosher salt: Enhances flavor and balances the tanginess from yogurt.
Pro Tip: Room temperature yogurt mixes more easily than cold, but either works fine with a little extra stirring.
Step-by-Step: From Dough to Golden Perfection
Start by whisking your dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt) in a medium bowl, then fold in the yogurt until you get a shaggy, slightly sticky dough. Don’t worry if it looks messy at first – that’s exactly what we want.
Turn everything onto a floured surface and knead gently until smooth, about 1-2 minutes. Divide into four equal pieces and roll each into a 5-6 inch rope. Form circles by pinching the ends together firmly – loose joins will open up during cooking.
Brush with egg wash, add your favorite toppings, then air fry at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes. The tops should be golden and the bagels should sound hollow when tapped.
| Step | Time | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Mix dough | 3-4 minutes | Shaggy, slightly sticky texture |
| Knead and shape | 5-7 minutes | Smooth dough, tight seams |
| Air fry | 10-12 minutes | Golden top, hollow sound when tapped |
| Cool | 5-10 minutes | Set crumb, easier to slice |
Troubleshooting Your Air Fryer Bagel Recipes
Dense bagels usually mean the dough was overworked or the yogurt was too thick. If your mixture feels dry, add yogurt one tablespoon at a time. Too wet? Dust with a little extra flour during kneading.
- Bagels opening up: Pinch seams more firmly and slightly overlap the ends
- Browning too fast: Lower temperature to 325°F and add 2-3 minutes to cooking time
- Soggy bottoms: Make sure air fryer basket has good ventilation, avoid overcrowding
Creative Variations and Swaps
The gluten-free version works beautifully with a good all-purpose gluten-free flour blend – just add that extra egg white for binding. For dairy-free, try thick coconut yogurt, though the texture will be slightly different.
Toppings are where you can really have fun. Everything bagel seasoning is classic, but try garlic powder mixed with dried herbs, or cinnamon sugar for a breakfast treat.
| Original | Substitution | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Gluten-free flour blend | Add extra egg white for binding |
| Greek yogurt | Thick coconut yogurt | Slightly denser texture |
| Egg wash | Melted butter or oil spray | Less shine, but still golden |
| Kosher salt | Sea salt | Use same amount |
Serving and Storage Tips
Fresh from the air fryer, these bagels slice beautifully and toast up golden. Let them cool for at least 5-10 minutes before cutting – they’ll continue cooking slightly as they rest, and you’ll get cleaner slices.
For storage, wrap individually in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days. They freeze wonderfully for up to a month when wrapped tightly. Reheat straight from frozen in the toaster or give them 20 seconds in the microwave wrapped in damp paper towel.
Make-ahead tip: The dough keeps in the fridge for 2 days, so you can portion and shape individual bagels whenever a craving hits.
Expert Says: The Art of Air Fryer Bagels
Using an air fryer for bagels offers a quick way to achieve a crisp crust without sacrificing the soft, chewy interior traditional bagels are known for. The circulating hot air promotes even browning, making air fryer bagels a smart alternative to oven baking when time or space is limited.
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Mastering the Art of Air Fryer Bagels
After many rounds of experimenting with dough hydration and cooking times, I finally landed on the perfect air fryer bagels. Early attempts were a bit doughy or too crispy, but each mistake helped me understand how to get that ideal chewy crust and tender crumb. This recipe is truly the result of patient, flavorful trial and error.
FAQs ( Air Fryer Bagels )
Can I make gluten free bagels in the air fryer?
Yes, this recipe includes a gluten free option that works well in the air fryer. Use a high-quality gluten free flour blend and follow the same cooking time, checking for doneness early to avoid overcooking. The air fryer keeps bagels crisp on the outside and soft inside, even without gluten.
How long do I cook bagels in an air fryer?
For this meal, cook bagels at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even browning. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model, so watch for a golden crust and firm texture before removing.
What are the main ingredients in this dish?
This recipe uses just three basic ingredients: self-rising flour (or gluten-free blend), Greek yogurt, and baking powder. Combining these creates a simple dough that’s quick to mix and produces fluffy, chewy bagels perfect for breakfast or snacks.
Can I freeze the made bagels for later?
Yes, you can freeze leftover bagels. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer bag. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to regain crispness and freshness.
How do I get a crispier crust on the bagels?
For a crispier crust, spray or brush the bagels lightly with water before air frying and increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes if needed. Using the air fryer’s high heat helps develop a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the inside soft.
These air fryer bagels deliver that perfect chewy-crispy contrast, with a total preparation and cooking time of around 15-20 minutes. You’ll love how the Greek yogurt creates such tender insides while the air fryer works its magic on that golden crust. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, wondering when you became a bagel wizard!
Try sprinkling dried rosemary with coarse sea salt for an herby twist, or brush with garlic butter right after cooking for extra richness. They keep beautifully wrapped in the fridge for five daysjust pop them in the toaster for that fresh-baked warmth again. A little trick I discovered: letting them rest those few minutes before slicing makes all the difference for clean cuts.
I’d love to see your creations! Share a photo and tell me which toppings became your favorites. Did these remind you of weekend mornings somewhere special? Save this recipe for those cozy Sunday brunches or surprise a neighbor with a warm batch. There’s something magical about homemade bagels that store-bought just can’t match.
