Air Fryer Bagels With Yogurt

Name: Air Fryer Bagels With Yogurt
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 cup self-rising flour; 1 egg (for egg wash); Toppings of your choice (e.g., sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning)

Highlighted under: Busy Planning

I absolutely love making Air Fryer Bagels with Yogurt because they’re easy, delicious, and incredibly satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up fresh bagels in under 30 minutes. The yogurt adds moisture and a slight tang, while the air fryer ensures a perfectly crisp exterior without the need for boiling. These bagels are versatile and can be topped with anything from classic cream cheese to smoked salmon. I can't wait for you to try making them at home!

Created by

Violet Kingsley

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:31:36.544Z

When I first attempted to make bagels in the air fryer, I was surprised at how easy it was to achieve that chewy texture we all love. By using yogurt in the dough, I found the process simplified significantly, cutting down on the traditional kneading time. The air fryer does a brilliant job of creating a crispy finish, making these bagels something I now make regularly.

One fantastic tip I discovered is to let the dough rest for a few minutes before shaping, which improves the texture and makes it easier to work with. I also love experimenting with toppings like everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds for varied flavors!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Chewy and delicious texture that rivals traditional bagels
Quick preparation and cooking time, perfect for busy mornings
Customizable with a variety of toppings to suit your taste

      

Mastering the Dough

The dough for these air fryer bagels is incredibly simple yet requires proper handling to achieve the right texture. The combination of plain yogurt and self-rising flour acts as a quick leavening agent due to the baking powder in the flour. This mixture should not be over-kneaded; knead it just until it's smooth, about 1-2 minutes. If the dough seems too sticky, you can lightly dust your hands and the surface with a little more flour as you work it.

One of the secrets to a great bagel texture lies in how you shape the dough. After forming each ball, ensure the hole in the center is wide enough. The bagels will puff up during cooking, which means a smaller hole can close up completely. Aim for a hole about one inch in diameter before cooking for that classic bagel shape. This simple shaping technique makes all the difference in presentation and texture.

Air Fryer Secrets

When using an air fryer, preheating is key for achieving that perfect golden-brown color and crispiness while keeping the inside tender. Setting your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes is ideal. You might want to check your air fryer's instructions, as appliance models can vary slightly in heat distribution. Proper preheating helps the bagels puff and cook evenly, giving them a delightful crunch without drying them out.

During the cooking process, check your bagels halfway through. Depending on your air fryer, you may need to turn them or shake the basket slightly to ensure even airflow and cooking. If your bagels appear undercooked at the 10-minute mark, give them an additional 1-2 minutes. They'll be ready when they're puffed and golden brown, providing that satisfying crunch with every bite!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These air fryer bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be made ahead for busy mornings. Once cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last up to 3 months. To reheat, just pop them in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 3-5 minutes until they're warmed through and slightly crisp.

When it comes to toppings, the possibilities are endless. While classic cream cheese is always a winner, consider trying avocado spread for a modern twist or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a sweet treat. You can even experiment with different herbs and spices mixed into the dough, like rosemary or garlic powder, to create unique flavors. Feel free to make mini-bagels too; just adjust the cooking time to about 8-10 minutes for perfect results.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup plain yogurt
1 cup self-rising flour
1 egg (for egg wash)
Toppings of your choice (e.g., sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfect bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt and self-rising flour until a dough forms. Knead for about 1-2 minutes until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and poke a hole in the center to form a bagel shape.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Air Fry the Bagels

Brush each bagel with egg wash and sprinkle your desired toppings. Place them in the air fryer basket, ensuring there’s space between each bagel. Cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite toppings!

These bagels are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding spices or herbs directly into the dough before shaping the bagels.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels come out too dense, it may be due to the flour being packed down. Always aerate your flour before measuring by fluffing it with a fork or whisk. Another common issue is bagels that lack flavor; if that happens, consider adding a pinch of salt to your dough for enhanced taste, or incorporate spices directly into the mix for added depth.

Overcooking can lead to hard bagels. Keep a close eye on them towards the end of the cooking time. The exterior should be crispy, and the bagels should sound hollow when tapped. If they seem too soft or undercooked, don’t hesitate to return them to the air fryer for a minute or two rather than taking them out prematurely.

Variations to Try

Get creative with your bagel dough; try adding shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or even dried fruits like blueberries or cranberries to elevate the flavor profile. You can also tweak the ratio of yogurt to flour to achieve different consistencies or flavors. For a sweeter bagel, incorporate a bit of honey or maple syrup into the yogurt mixture.

For a health-conscious twist, try using Greek yogurt. It imparts a thicker texture and slightly tangier flavor, perfect for a protein boost. Gluten-free options can be achieved by substituting self-rising flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend, keeping in mind that you may need to adjust the yogurt quantity slightly to get the right dough consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use plain flour instead of self-rising flour?

Yes, but you will need to add baking powder (about 2 teaspoons) to achieve the same rise.

→ How should I store the bagels?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute with gluten-free flour, but the texture may vary.

→ What toppings can I use?

Feel free to get creative! Classic options include sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even a sprinkle of garlic powder.