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: 2 cups self-rising flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 egg (for egg wash); Toppings (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, etc.)

Highlighted under: Easy Prep Favorites

I recently discovered a quick and easy way to make bagels at home using my air fryer, and I couldn't be more pleased with the results! These Air Fryer Bagels With Yogurt are not only soft and chewy but also have a delightful crispiness on the outside. By using Greek yogurt as the primary ingredient, I found that the dough comes together beautifully with just two simple ingredients. It's a fun recipe that allows me to customize my bagels with toppings of my choice, and they make for a perfect breakfast treat or snack.

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:57:35.588Z

When I first tried making bagels in the air fryer, I was skeptical about the texture. However, after a few attempts, I perfected a simple yogurt-based dough that rises beautifully. The combination of self-rising flour and yogurt not only cuts down on prep time but also adds a delightful tanginess to the bagels.

One of my favorite tips is to brush the bagels with a little garlic butter before they cook – it elevates the flavor to a whole new level! Each bite is a delightful balance of chewy and soft, making them perfect to pair with cream cheese or just a drizzle of honey.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and simple with only two ingredients
Customizable with your favorite toppings
Perfectly golden and crispy from the air fryer
A healthier alternative to store-bought bagels

Creating the Perfect Dough

The combination of self-rising flour and Greek yogurt not only simplifies the ingredient list but also enhances the texture of the bagels. The chemical reaction between the baking powder in the self-rising flour and the acidity in the yogurt creates a delightful lift, yielding soft and airy bagels. Make sure to knead the dough just enough to combine the ingredients; over-kneading can lead to tougher bagels. Aim for a smooth, slightly tacky dough that holds its shape well.

If you find your dough is too sticky, don't hesitate to sprinkle in a little extra flour while kneading. On the other hand, if the dough seems too dry, a small splash of water or additional yogurt can help bring it back to the right consistency. Achieving this balance is crucial to ensure your bagels come out soft and tasty.

Bagel Shaping Tips

Shaping the bagels correctly not only impacts their appearance but also affects how they cook in the air fryer. While forming the bagels, aim for a uniform thickness, especially around the hole, to ensure even cooking. I find that rolling the dough into a ball and then using your finger to poke through the center works best. The hole should be about an inch wide, as it tends to close up as they cook.

For added stability, you can slightly flatten the sides of the bagels after shaping them. This method not only helps them hold their shape but also creates a larger surface area that allows for better golden crispness. And remember, don't overcrowd your air fryer basket—leave space between each bagel for optimal air circulation.

Storing and Serving Your Bagels

After enjoying a fresh batch of bagels, you may find yourself with leftovers. To store them, let the bagels cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for about a week. For longer storage, freezing bagels is a great option; just wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen bagels, simply toast them straight from the freezer or let them thaw for a few hours and then warm them in the air fryer for about 5 minutes at 350°F. This reheating method not only brings back their original texture but also enhances their crispy exterior. Serve them with your favorite spreads, such as cream cheese or avocado, or use them for breakfast sandwiches—they're incredibly versatile!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups self-rising flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 egg (for egg wash)
Toppings (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, etc.)

Once you have your ingredients, you're ready to get started!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your air fryer bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt until a dough forms. Knead it gently for a minute until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each piece into a ball and then poke a hole in the center with your finger to form a bagel shape.

Prepare for Cooking

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined basket.

Brush with Egg Wash

Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the bagels. Sprinkle your desired toppings on top.

Air Fry the Bagels

Cook in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

Serve and Enjoy

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

Now that your bagels are ready, enjoy them fresh out of the air fryer!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different toppings for a variety of flavors. You can also add herbs or spices to the dough for an extra kick!

Variations on Toppings

One of the best parts of making bagels at home is the ability to customize them with your favorite toppings. Besides traditional options like sesame seeds or poppy seeds, consider experimenting with everything bagel seasoning, cheddar cheese, or even crushed garlic. For a sweet twist, try a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before air frying. Whatever you choose, apply your toppings after brushing the egg wash for better adhesion.

Don’t hesitate to get creative and incorporate dried herbs or spices into the dough itself. Mixing in chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even jalapeños can give your bagels a unique flavor profile. These additions can elevate the bagels from a simple breakfast item to a gourmet snack.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels end up dense, it could be a result of over-kneading the dough or using too much flour. The dough should remain slightly sticky and elastic; if you feel it’s too dry, remember that a little moisture goes a long way. On the flip side, if they’re not rising as expected, check the freshness of your self-rising flour—it should still have plenty of leavening power.

Another common issue is bagels sticking to the parchment. Ensure that you use unbleached parchment paper, which tends to release baked goods more easily. Also, don’t skimp on preheating the air fryer—this step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're hosting a gathering or simply want to make a larger batch, scaling this recipe is straightforward. For each additional serving, just increase the amounts proportionally—stick to the two parts flour to one part yogurt ratio. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust cooking time slightly based on the number of bagels in the air fryer—avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.

To help with timing, consider cooking in batches. Start with a small batch to gauge cooking times, and then double or triple your ingredients accordingly. This way, you'll also get to enjoy fresh, warm bagels with each round without compromising on quality.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but Greek yogurt provides a better texture and consistency for the dough.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What toppings work best?

Anything from sesame seeds and everything bagel seasoning to cheese or onion flakes works great!