Crispy Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels

Name: Crispy 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 cup self-rising flour; 1 egg (for egg wash); Salt to taste; Toppings of choice (e.g., everything seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds)

Highlighted under: Everyday Favorites

I absolutely love making crispy air fryer yogurt bagels at home! They are incredibly easy to whip up and provide a perfect combination of softness inside and crunchiness outside. The use of yogurt not only adds flavor but also creates a moist texture that brings these bagels to life. I enjoy experimenting with various toppings like everything seasoning or sesame seeds, making them a versatile addition to any breakfast or snack. Trust me, once you try making these, you’ll want to skip the store-bought versions for good!

Created by

Maeve Colchester

Last updated on 2026-02-15T06:33:36.004Z

When I first tried making bagels in the air fryer, I was amazed at how easy it was to achieve that classic bagel texture without the fuss of boiling. The yogurt adds a lovely tang and keeps the dough moist, which is key. I’ve discovered that letting the dough rest for a few minutes enhances the flavor even more, as it gives the baking powder time to activate.

One of my favorite tips is to experiment with toppings. I often mix everything seasoning into the dough before shaping the bagels or sprinkling it on top just before air frying. The result is a beautifully aromatic bagel that’s perfect for breakfast or a quick snack!

Why You Will Love These Bagels

Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Perfectly crispy outside with a soft and fluffy interior
Customizable with your favorite toppings

Mastering the Dough

The key to perfect bagels lies in the dough. Using Greek yogurt adds a richness and moisture that standard bagel recipes often lack. The self-rising flour simplifies the process because it eliminates the need for additional yeast and rising time. When mixing, aim for a dough that is slightly sticky but manageable. If it feels too wet, sprinkle in a little extra flour until it’s workable. The final dough should be smooth and elastic, which is crucial for achieving that contrasting crispy exterior and fluffy interior.

Kneading the dough gently is essential; overworking it can yield a dense bagel. Just a few minutes of kneading ensures the ingredients are well combined and the gluten is activated, contributing to a slightly chewy texture after baking. Allowing the dough to rest for a few minutes before shaping can also help relax the gluten, making it easier to form the bagels.

Customizing Your Bagels

One of the best parts of making these bagels is the opportunity for customization. After applying the egg wash, a variety of toppings can elevate the flavor profile. Everything seasoning, a mix of poppy seeds, sesame seeds, and garlic flakes, gives a savory punch that contrasts beautifully with the yogurt's tang. If you prefer a sweeter version, consider tossing in cinnamon sugar or topping with a drizzle of honey after baking for a delightful breakfast treat.

For those with dietary restrictions, substitutions can be made easily. For gluten-free bagels, you can replace self-rising flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix and add a tablespoon of baking powder. Just keep in mind that the texture might differ slightly, but they can still be delightful. You can also experiment with adding herbs or spices directly into the dough for added flavor, such as rosemary or garlic powder, which can introduce a delightful aroma and taste.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cup self-rising flour
1 egg (for egg wash)
Salt to taste
Toppings of choice (e.g., everything seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds)

Combine all the ingredients for an easy and delicious dough!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt and self-rising flour, mixing until it forms a dough. Add a pinch of salt and knead gently until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and shape 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 5 minutes.

Egg Wash and Add Toppings

Brush the tops of the bagels with a whisked egg and sprinkle your desired toppings.

Air Fry the Bagels

Place bagels in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 10 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

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

Enjoy your homemade bagels!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding herbs or spices to the dough. You can also mix in cheese for savory bagels.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Once cooled, ensure your bagels are properly stored to maintain freshness. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them; freeze the bagels in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to three months, ideal for quick breakfasts or snacks.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen bagel, simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. For a quick reheating option, pop it in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 3-5 minutes or until warmed through and crispy. This method helps revive the bagel’s original texture, making it taste freshly baked again.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels are turning out too dense or not rising as expected, check your dough consistency. It’s crucial that the yogurt and flour are mixed well without over-kneading. If the dough seems too dry, gradually add more yogurt; too wet, incorporate additional flour incrementally until the right balance is achieved. Achieving that ideal dough texture will result in fluffy bagels.

Another common issue can be uneven cooking in your air fryer. To prevent this, ensure you do not overcrowd the basket; give each bagel enough space for air circulation. If you notice some browning faster than others, use a pair of tongs to rotate them halfway through the cooking time for even coloring. This will guarantee that every bagel comes out beautifully golden brown and crispy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but Greek yogurt provides a thicker texture that helps in forming the dough better.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

You can substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free alternative, though the texture may vary.

→ What toppings can I use?

Feel free to use any toppings you like! Popular options include garlic powder, cheese, or simply a sprinkle of salt.