Air Fryer Bagels With Yogurt

Name: Air Fryer Bagels With Yogurt
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup self-rising flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 egg (for egg wash); Everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Favorites

I recently discovered the joy of making bagels in the air fryer, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! With just two simple ingredients—Greek yogurt and self-rising flour—these bagels come together in a flash. The air fryer gives them a delightful golden crust while keeping the inside soft and chewy. You can top them with everything bagel seasoning or a sprinkle of sesame seeds. I promise, these bagels are not just easy to make; they’re also incredibly satisfying to eat!

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:05:35.938Z

Making bagels has always felt like a daunting task to me, but when I transitioned to using the air fryer, it became a breeze! I experimented with different toppings and discovered that a hint of garlic powder mixed into the dough just elevates the flavor to another level. The best part? I can whip them up in under 30 minutes without the hassle of boiling.

After several trials, I finally nailed the perfect texture: crispy on the outside and soft inside. It was an exciting moment for me when my family couldn't get enough of these bagels. Just serve them warm with cream cheese for a delightful breakfast or snack!

Why You Will Love These Bagels
Quick and easy to make with just two ingredients.
Deliciously soft inside with a golden crust.
Customizable with your favorite toppings.

The Role of Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is not just a replacement for traditional bagel dough ingredients; it plays a crucial role in achieving that soft, chewy texture we crave. The protein in Greek yogurt helps develop gluten, which adds structure and allows the bagels to rise properly in the air fryer. When combined with self-rising flour, the yogurt’s moisture creates a wonderfully tender bagel with a delightful balance of chew and fluff.

To enhance flavor, consider using flavored Greek yogurt varieties, such as herb or garlic, to add a unique twist. The yogurt also aids in browning due to its fat content, which contributes to the golden crust. If you're allergic to dairy or looking for a vegan option, you might experiment with coconut yogurt as a substitute, though results may vary slightly in texture.

Shaping Tips for Perfect Bagels

Shaping the bagels correctly is key to achieving the right texture and appearance. After rolling the dough into balls, make sure to poke a hole in the center gently, then stretch it slightly to ensure the hole remains prominent during cooking. If the hole closes up while cooking, the bagel may be less airy and miss its characteristic texture. Aim for approximately a 1.5-inch diameter hole for the best result.

If you're finding it difficult to shape the dough because it's too sticky, lightly flour your hands and work surface to make the process smoother. You can also use a donut mold if you want uniformly shaped bagels, which can simplify the process and ensure consistent baking. Just remember to reduce the cooking time by a minute or two, as using a mold can alter the heat circulation in the air fryer.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Once your bagels come out of the air fryer, the possibilities for toppings and fillings are endless! Spread them with classic cream cheese, or try a combination of avocado and lemon zest for a refreshing take. For added protein, smoked salmon pairs beautifully with a dollop of herbed cream cheese, elevating your bagel experience to a brunch-worthy delight.

For more adventurous flavors, consider incorporating shredded cheese into the dough or adding spices like garlic powder or onion flakes to the mix for an extra kick. You can also try sweet variations by folding in chocolate chips or dried fruits into the dough before shaping. Just remember to adjust cooking time as needed, as adding moisture-rich ingredients may require a little extra time.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

1 cup self-rising flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 egg (for egg wash)
Everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour with the Greek yogurt. Stir until a dough forms, then knead gently on a floured surface for a minute until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your finger to form a bagel shape. Ensure the hole is wide enough as it will shrink during cooking.

Air Fry the Bagels

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the bagels in the air fryer basket, making sure they're not touching. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning if desired. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, topped with cream cheese, avocado, or your favorite spread.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, mix herbs or spices into the dough or try different toppings like sesame seeds or garlic salt before air frying.

Storage and Reheating

To keep your bagels fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, helping you enjoy fresh-baked bagels anytime.

When you're ready to eat your frozen bagels, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a quick reheating option, pop them back in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 3-5 minutes. This will restore their delightful texture, crisping up the outside while warming the inside perfectly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels are not browning properly, it may be due to insufficient egg wash. Ensure that you’re brushing the tops evenly to promote even browning. In some cases, the air fryer may require a preheat to achieve optimal cooking conditions. If you notice that your bagels are overly dense, it could be due to over-kneading—aim for a gentle touch when forming the dough.

If you encounter a situation where the bagels seem too dry, consider adjusting the ratio of yogurt to flour. You might try reducing the flour slightly or adding a spoonful of water to the dough. Conversely, if the dough is too moist and sticky, incorporating a little more flour can help. Always remember to account for differences in humidity and flour type when working with these two key ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use plain yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Greek yogurt provides a richer consistency.

→ How long can I store leftover bagels?

You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ What if I don’t have self-rising flour?

You can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt. Use 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

→ Can I customize the flavors?

Absolutely! Feel free to add in rosemary, cheese, or even dried fruit for sweeter options.