Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels

Name: Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour; 1 egg (for egg wash); Sesame seeds; Poppy seeds

Highlighted under: Simple Cooking

I love how easy and quick it is to make these Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels. Using just two simple ingredients, Greek yogurt and self-rising flour, they come together in a matter of minutes. The air fryer gives them an incredible golden crust while keeping the inside soft and chewy. These bagels are perfect for a morning treat or a quick snack anytime during the day. Once you try them, you’ll never go back to store-bought!

Created by

Arden Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:16:37.334Z

When I first discovered the concept of yogurt bagels, I was amazed at their simplicity and flavor. I decided to experiment with my air fryer to see how it would work, and I was pleasantly surprised at the results. The air fryer cooked them evenly, creating a delightful texture that was soft on the inside yet crunchy on the outside.

One tip I found essential is to let the dough rest for a minute after mixing. This helps it become more pliable and easier to shape into bagels, which makes the final product even better. You'll love the results if you follow this step!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Quick and easy two-ingredient recipe
Perfect texture with a crispy exterior
Healthy alternative to traditional bagels
Customizable toppings to suit any taste

Understanding the Ingredients

Greek yogurt plays a crucial role in this recipe, not just as a binder but also as a source of moisture and protein. Opt for full-fat Greek yogurt for the best texture; it makes the dough richer and contributes to a chewier bagel. If you only have plain yogurt, consider straining it through a cheesecloth to achieve a thicker consistency, which closely mimics Greek yogurt. This extra step can enhance the bagel's texture, preventing them from being too soft.

Self-rising flour is another key ingredient. It contains baking powder and salt, enabling the bagels to rise without the need for yeast. This makes the recipe quicker and easier since traditional bagels require a lot of time and effort to rise. If you lack self-rising flour, a substitute can be made by mixing all-purpose flour with baking powder (1 cup flour plus 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder) and a pinch of salt to achieve a similar effect.

Tips for Perfectly Shaped Bagels

When shaping the dough into bagels, ensure that the rope you form is of even thickness. This is crucial for consistent cooking and achieving an aesthetically pleasing shape. If you prefer larger or smaller bagels, just remember to adjust your cooking time slightly. For larger bagels, you may need to add an extra minute or two in the air fryer to ensure they are fully cooked through. Keep an eye on them for a golden-brown appearance to signal they're done.

Pinching the ends of the dough tightly when forming the circles is essential. This helps the bagels hold their shape during cooking and prevents them from unraveling. If you notice them starting to come apart in the air fryer, don’t worry; you can gently press them back together with a tool like a spatula for a quick fix. Always check for any irregularities in shape before cooking.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to extend their shelf life, they freeze beautifully. Simply let the bagels cool completely, place them in a freezer bag, and they can last up to three months. To reheat from frozen, pop them in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Serve your bagels warm and fresh from the air fryer for the best experience. They pair wonderfully with cream cheese, avocado, or even scrambled eggs for a nutritious breakfast. You can also experiment with various toppings like everything bagel seasoning or fresh herbs before cooking. This versatility allows you to customize each batch to fit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 1/2 cups self-rising flour

For Topping (optional)

1 egg (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds
Poppy seeds

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt and self-rising flour until a sticky dough forms. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour until it's manageable.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and shape it into a circle, pinching the ends together to form a bagel.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes.

Cook the Bagels

Place the shaped bagels in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. If using, brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds. Air fry for 10 minutes or until golden brown.

Pro Tips

For a variety of flavors, try adding spices like garlic powder or onion flakes to the dough before mixing.

Enhancing Flavor and Texture

To amplify the flavor of your bagels, consider incorporating seasonings directly into the dough, such as garlic powder or onion flakes. These additions can complement the natural tang of Greek yogurt beautifully. Additionally, make sure not to overmix the dough; just combine until the flour is integrated to ensure you maintain that soft, chewy texture in the finished bagels.

If you like a more robust bagel, feel free to fold in ingredients like shredded cheese or chopped herbs before shaping. Adding 1/4 to 1/3 cup of these mix-ins adds flavor without compromising the dough's integrity. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels emerge from the air fryer looking undercooked, it may be due to the dough being too wet or not enough time spent cooking. Troubleshoot by adding small amounts of flour to the dough if it feels overly sticky during mixing. Also, ensure your air fryer is preheated adequately before cooking to promote even browning.

On the other hand, if the bagels are too hard or dry, consider reducing the cooking time slightly for future batches. Each air fryer can have slight variances in temperature, so it's wise to monitor the bagels closely for their first time in your specific model.

Customizing Your Bagels

Beyond traditional toppings, you can get creative with your Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels. Try brushing them with a mix of olive oil and your favorite spices before air frying, or add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a gourmet twist. The air fryer allows for quick and even cooking, making it ideal for trying out various flavor profiles.

If you're looking for a sweet alternative, you might consider adding a tablespoon of honey or sugar to the dough for a touch of sweetness, pairing deliciously with a cinnamon-sugar topping. This opens the door for a delightful breakfast or dessert option that maintains the wholesome appeal of your bagels.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

While you can use regular yogurt, Greek yogurt will yield a better texture for the bagels.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they are completely cooled and sealed in a freezer-safe bag.

→ What are good toppings for the bagels?

You can use cream cheese, avocado, smoked salmon, or any of your favorite spreads or toppings!