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 Greek yogurt; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Sesame seeds; Poppy seeds; Everything bagel seasoning; Garlic powder

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Inspiration

I love making bagels, and using yogurt is a game-changer! This simple recipe allows for a quick, delicious bagel experience without the hassle of traditional boiling and baking methods. I enjoy preparing these bagels in the air fryer, which gives them that perfect golden finish while keeping the inside soft and chewy. You can easily customize them with various toppings, making each batch a unique treat. Trust me, once you try these bagels, they’ll become a regular in your breakfast rotation!

Created by

Grace Walker

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:13:36.438Z

When I first experimented with these air fryer bagels, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. Using yogurt not only helps to keep the dough moist but also gives the bagels a delightful tanginess that elevates breakfast. I found that mixing in some herbs or spices enhances the flavor even further, but the base recipe is fantastic as is!

One tip I discovered during my trials is to preheat the air fryer for a few minutes. This little step ensures that the bagels cook evenly and develop that desired crispy crust. It’s a small adjustment, but it makes a significant difference in the final results.

Why You Will Love These Bagels
Quick and easy to make with just a few ingredients
The yogurt adds a unique flavor and texture
Perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings
Less mess compared to traditional bagel recipes

The Role of Yogurt in Bagel Dough

Using Greek yogurt instead of traditional ingredients like water or milk significantly enhances the flavor and texture of the bagels. The acidity of yogurt interacts with baking powder to create a lighter, airier bagel. I love how the yogurt adds a rich tang that complements the bagel's chewy consistency beautifully. Without this ingredient, the bagel might not achieve that desired soft and chewy interior.

Moreover, the moisture from the yogurt helps keep the bagels soft even after air frying. If you find your dough is too dry, a tablespoon of yogurt can work wonders, soaking in and retaining moisture. This flexibility allows you to tweak the dough to your liking, providing a forgiving recipe suited for various kitchen experiences.

Topping Ideas for Customization

Toppings are an exciting way to elevate your bagels. For a classic touch, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top. But don’t hesitate to experiment with everything bagel seasoning or a light dusting of garlic powder for a savory kick. I suggest adding the toppings halfway through the cooking time to prevent them from burning and to ensure they adhere well to the bagel’s surface.

Feel free to get creative! Try adding cheese or chopped herbs directly to the dough for unique flavors. A little grated Parmesan or mixed herbs can transform a simple bagel into a delightful breakfast treat. Remember, the key is not to overload the topping, as you want the bagel's airy structure to shine through.

Cooling and Serving Suggestions

After air frying, allow your bagels to cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. This step helps them firm up a bit, ensuring a better texture as you slice into them. If you skip this, you might end up with a doughy center that doesn't hold together well when spread with cream cheese or other toppings.

Serving these bagels fresh is a must! Consider toasting the sliced bagels lightly to further enhance their flavor and texture. They pair wonderfully with a variety of spreads, from classic cream cheese to avocado or even homemade spreads. Enjoy them warm for a cozy breakfast or snack any time of the day.

Ingredients

Bagel Dough

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Toppings (optional)

Sesame seeds
Poppy seeds
Everything bagel seasoning
Garlic powder

Combine all ingredients for the bagel dough in a bowl, and mix until a dough forms.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour until it is manageable.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each part into a ball and then poke a hole in the center to shape into a bagel. Ensure the hole is big enough, as it will shrink during cooking.

Preheat Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for the perfect bagel texture.

Cook Bagels

Place the shaped bagels in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Cook for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Add Toppings

If using toppings, brush the bagels lightly with water or egg wash before sprinkling them on top halfway through the cooking time.

Cool and Enjoy

Once done, carefully remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy as is or with your favorite spread!

Serve these delicious bagels fresh and warm from the air fryer!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding spices like onion powder or sunflower seeds into the dough. These small additions can really enhance the overall taste of the bagels.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to prepare in advance, you can shape them and refrigerate the uncooked bagels for up to 24 hours. Just cover them loosely with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you're ready to cook, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing them in the air fryer.

For longer storage, consider freezing the bagels once they've cooled completely. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag; they can last for up to 3 months. To reheat a frozen bagel, simply air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your bagels come out too dense, ensure you're mixing the dough just until combined; over-mixing can lead to tough bagels. Also, if you find the dough too sticky, you might need to adjust a little with flour. A stickier dough can affect the bagel's final texture, so aim for a smooth, but not overly dry consistency.

Another common issue is uneven cooking. If your air fryer doesn't have a rotating basket, be sure to flip the bagels halfway through the cooking time for even browning. Keep an eye on their color as they cook; they’re done when they're a deep golden brown with a firm exterior.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is quite versatile for scaling up or down. To adjust the quantity, simply maintain the same yogurt-to-flour ratio, ensuring you have equal parts of each. For gatherings or larger families, doubling the recipe is straightforward, and you can cook the bagels in batches if your fryer doesn’t accommodate all at once.

When scaling down, remember that cooking times may also change slightly. Start checking for doneness a minute or two early if you're making fewer bagels, as smaller portions can cook faster. Making your air fryer work efficiently ensures everyone enjoys a hot, fresh bagel straight from the fryer.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-Greek yogurt?

Yes, but Greek yogurt is recommended for added thickness and consistency.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Absolutely! Freeze the bagels in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be reheated directly from frozen.

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to get creative! Cheese, herbs, or even sweet toppings like cinnamon sugar can be delicious alternatives.