Air Fryer Bagels: 5 Ways to Elevate Your Breakfast Joy

Name: Air Fryer Bagels: 5 Ways to Elevate Your Breakfast Joy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 egg (for egg wash); Sesame seeds (optional)

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 2, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the joy of making air fryer bagels at home! I remember the first time I whipped up a batch; the smell of freshly baked bagels wafted through my kitchen, and I was hooked! These bagels are not only easy to make, but they also come together in about 22 minutes – yes, you heard that right! Gone are the days of waiting for dough to rise and boil; with an air fryer, you get that perfect chewy texture without the fuss.

One of the best parts is you can customize them to your heart’s content. Want some everything bagel seasoning? Go for it! Or maybe you’re feeling classic with just a sprinkle of sesame seeds? You do you! Making air fryer bagels means you can enjoy a warm, delicious breakfast or snack any day of the week without the hassle of a bakery. Plus, they’re a fun project to do with the kids! Trust me, once you try these homemade air fryer bagels, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought again. Let’s get into the details, shall we?

Ingredients List

To whip up those delightful air fryer bagels, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients. Let’s dive right in!

2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of your bagels. It gives them that classic chewy texture we all love.
1 tablespoon baking powder: This little powerhouse helps your bagels rise and become fluffy without the need for yeast.
1 teaspoon salt: A crucial component to enhance the flavors of your bagels. Don’t skip it!
3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt: This ingredient adds moisture and tanginess, making your bagels rich and delicious.
1 egg (for egg wash): A simple egg wash gives your bagels that beautiful golden color and a slight sheen.
Sesame seeds (optional): Use these to sprinkle on top for added flavor and crunch. Feel free to get creative with your toppings!

That’s it! With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from homemade perfection.

How to Prepare Air Fryer Bagels

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making these scrumptious air fryer bagels! Trust me, the process is straightforward and oh-so-rewarding. Grab your ingredients and let’s dive right in!

Prepping the Dough

First things first, let’s mix up that dough! In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Give it a good stir to ensure everything’s evenly mixed. Now, here comes the fun part: add 3/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt into the dry mix. Using a spatula or your hands, start combining until a dough begins to form. Don’t worry if it feels a bit sticky; that’s just part of the magic! Once it’s all coming together, sprinkle some flour on your countertop and knead the dough for about 5 minutes. You want it to be smooth and slightly elastic, so don’t rush this step. It’s all about getting that perfect texture!

Shaping the Bagels

Now that your dough is ready, it’s time to shape those bagels! Divide the dough into six equal parts – I find it easiest to roll them into balls first. Then, take each piece and gently poke a hole in the center with your finger. You can use your thumb to stretch the hole a bit wider; just make sure it doesn’t close up during cooking! If you want to get fancy, feel free to twist and shape them a bit more, but remember, they don’t have to be perfect! The beauty of homemade bagels is their charm. Once shaped, place each bagel on a plate or clean surface while you prepare to air fry them.

Air Frying

Time to bring it all together in the air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Once it’s hot and ready, brush each bagel with the beaten egg to get that golden-brown finish we all love. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for extra flavor. Carefully place the bagels in the air fryer basket, leaving a bit of space between each to allow for expansion. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, but keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when they’re beautifully golden and puffed up. To check for doneness, gently tap the tops; they should feel firm and springy. Once cooked, let them cool for a few minutes before digging in. Your homemade air fryer bagels are now ready to be devoured!

Tips for Success

Ready to take your air fryer bagel game to the next level? Here are my top tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

First off, don’t rush the kneading process. I know it’s tempting to skip this step, but giving your dough a good 5 minutes of kneading is crucial for developing that lovely texture. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour on your hands and the surface, but be careful not to overdo it – too much flour can make your bagels dense!

Another tip is to keep an eye on the cooking time. Every air fryer is a bit different, so check your bagels a couple of minutes before the timer goes off. You want them golden brown and puffed up, but not overcooked. Trust me, burnt bagels are a sad sight!

Lastly, experiment with your toppings! While sesame seeds are classic, don’t be afraid to try poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet twist. Just remember, whatever you choose, sprinkle it on right after the egg wash for the best adhesion. Happy bagel-making!

Variations on Air Fryer Bagels

Now that you’ve mastered the basic air fryer bagels, let’s get creative! The beauty of these bagels is that they’re a blank canvas, ready for your personal touch. One of my favorite variations is to mix in some herbs right into the dough. Try adding a tablespoon of dried rosemary or thyme for a delicious savory twist!

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, how about a cinnamon sugar bagel? After brushing with the egg wash, sprinkle a mix of cinnamon and sugar on top before air frying. The result is a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with cream cheese or even just a pat of butter.

Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different toppings like poppy seeds, crushed garlic, or even chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair. You could also try drizzling a bit of honey on top after they come out of the air fryer for a sweet finish that’s simply divine!

Remember, the sky’s the limit here! Don’t hesitate to mix and match flavors. Whatever you choose, just have fun with it and let your creativity shine through. Your homemade air fryer bagels will be as unique as you are!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying homemade air fryer bagels, knowing the nutritional content can help you make informed choices! Each bagel is packed with flavor and offers a reasonable balance of nutrients. Here’s a quick rundown of the estimated nutritional values per bagel:

Calories: 150
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 5g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoying these bagels as part of a balanced diet can make your breakfast or snack time both nutritious and delicious!

FAQ About Air Fryer Bagels

Got questions about making air fryer bagels? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my best answers.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour can add a lovely nutty flavor and extra fiber. Just keep in mind that it may change the texture a bit, so you might need to adjust the hydration by adding a little more yogurt if the dough feels too dry.

What if I don’t have Greek yogurt on hand?
No problem! You can substitute regular yogurt or even sour cream if that’s what you have. Just remember that it might affect the tanginess and texture a little, but it’ll still be delicious!

Can I freeze the bagels after making them?
Yes, you can! Once they’re completely cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for about a month. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes!

Are air fryer bagels healthier than store-bought?
Generally speaking, yes! Making air fryer bagels at home allows you to control the ingredients, so you can avoid preservatives and artificial flavors often found in store-bought versions. Plus, they’re baked in an air fryer, which typically requires less oil!

Hopefully, these answers help you on your bagel-making journey. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out! Happy baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 22 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy warm, freshly made bagels in no time!
Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry right now, making this a hassle-free baking project.
Customizable: The recipe is versatile! You can easily mix in your favorite flavors or toppings to make each batch unique.
Healthier Option: Homemade means no preservatives, and you control what goes in, making it a healthier choice than store-bought bagels.
Fun for the Family: Making bagels is a great activity to do with kids or friends, turning a simple recipe into a fun kitchen adventure!

Trust me, once you try these air fryer bagels, you’ll fall in love with the simplicity and flavor. Enjoy every bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve made your delicious air fryer bagels, you’ll want to store them properly to keep them fresh! Let the bagels cool completely before storing. This step is crucial because it prevents moisture from building up, which can lead to soggy bagels.

To store them, simply place your bagels in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just pop them in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll be good for about a month.

When you’re ready to enjoy your bagels again, reheating them is super easy! If you’re using the air fryer, just pop them back in at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-5 minutes until they’re warmed through. You can also toast them in a regular toaster for a quick and crispy fix. Enjoy your fresh bagels all over again!