Steam rising, the smell of toasted dough, and that first warm bitepure morning magic. These Air Fryer Bagels crunch delightfully on the outside while staying soft and chewy inside, like your favorite bagel shop came to your kitchen. They’re having a moment, and for good reason: homemade flavor, no boiling, no fuss.
This twist on a classic skips the yeast and swaps in Greek yogurt for protein-rich chew. You mix, roll, and pop them right into the basketno need for a big oven or long rise times. Think weekend bakery vibes, ready in under 25 minutes. And yep, this is one of those air fryer bagel recipes that actually works with pantry staples you already have.
I first made a batch during a stormy February in 2020cabin fever and a near-empty bread drawer. My oldest took one bite and just said, “Whoa.” That’s when I knew. The learning curve? Brush the tops with egg wash for a deeper crust and golden finishadds that bakery feel in minutes. After hundreds of tested recipes behind the camera, this one’s a keeper for flavor, texture, and ease.
Thomas Baker
Air Fryer Bagels Easy Delicious Recipes to Try Now
These Air Fryer Bagels are an easy and quick recipe perfect for any time of the day. Made with just 3 main ingredients, they are light, fluffy, and customizable with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re looking for classic or gluten-free options, these Air Fryer Bagel Recipes will become a new favorite in your kitchen.
For gluten-free bagels: 1 cup gluten free all purpose flour
2 teaspoons gluten-free baking powder
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 egg white whisked until frothy
Everything bagel seasoning – optional
Method
In a medium-size bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder and salt.
Add the yogurt and mix the dough using a fork, hands, or spatula until slightly crumbly with doughy pieces.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead into a smooth ball.
Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a 5-6 inch long, 3/4 inch wide log and form into a circle, pinching the ends together.
Mix the egg yolk with water and brush over each bagel.
Add toppings if desired.
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F and spray the basket with olive oil.
Place bagels in the basket about 2 inches apart.
Cook for about 10 minutes, checking at 8-9 minutes to prevent over-browning.
Remove and let cool 5-10 minutes before slicing and topping.
For gluten-free bagels, combine gluten-free flour, gluten-free baking powder, salt, yogurt, and egg white; mix and follow the same steps.
Notes
To make egg-free, omit eggs and add extra baking powder; use melted butter or olive oil spray instead of egg wash. Store bagels wrapped in the refrigerator up to 5 days or freeze up to 30 days. Reheat in air fryer or toaster. Dough can be made ahead and refrigerated up to 2 days. Let bagels cool 5-10 minutes as they continue cooking while cooling.
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Bagels
You’re about to discover a new favorite for your mornings! These bagels are quick to make, incredibly versatile, and surprisingly light. Here’s why they’ll become a staple in your kitchen:
Quick and Accessible: Ready in under 20 minutes with pantry staples.
Mess-Free: Skip the boiling step of traditional bagelsstraight from dough to the air fryer.
Healthier Twist: Protein-packed Greek yogurt adds richness without guilt.
Endless Possibilities: Sweet or savory, gluten-free or classic, the power is in your hands.
Ingredients and Simple Substitutions
This recipe uses a straightforward list of ingredients, making homemade bagels accessible for everyone. Whether you need gluten-free or egg-free options, we’ve got you covered!
Ingredient
Amount
Substitution Notes
All-Purpose Flour
1 cup
Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for gluten-free bagels.
Baking Powder
2 teaspoons (optional)
Adds fluffiness; skip if you prefer dense bagels.
Kosher Salt
1/4 teaspoon
A pinch of salt enhances flavor; use your favorite variety.
Plain Greek Yogurt
1 cup
Stick to full-fat for the best texture and richness.
Egg (for wash)
1 large
Replace with olive oil or melted butter for egg-free bagels.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Bagels
Even if you’re new to working with dough, this recipe is designed to be fun and simple. Here’s how to make your air fryer bagels:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the Greek yogurt and stir until the dough is slightly crumbly but comes together.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for 2-3 minutes until smooth, then divide into four equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a log (about 5-6 inches long and 3/4 inch wide) and form a circle, pinching the ends firmly to seal.
Brush the bagels with egg wash, then add your favorite toppingseverything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or simply leave them plain.
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and spray the basket with olive oil or non-stick spray. Cook bagels for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning and prevent over-browning.
Pro Tip: Let your bagels cool for 5–10 minutes after cooking for the best texture. This allows them to set properly.
Serving and Storage Tips
Freshly baked air fryer bagels are a delight, and they also store well for later enjoyment. Here’s how to savor them now and keep them fresh:
Serving: Slice them open and spread with cream cheese, butter, or elevate them with avocado and smoked salmon.
Storing: Wrap individual bagels tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 30 days.
Reheating: Pop them into the air fryer for a few minutes, or slice and toast until warm and crispy.
Storage Method
How Long
Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator
Up to 5 days
Warm in air fryer or toaster oven until heated through.
Freezer
Up to 30 days
Defrost in the fridge overnight or microwave for 20 seconds before toasting.
Customization Inspiration
Ready to make these air fryer bagels uniquely yours? Here are some fun ways to personalize your batch:
Flavor Boost: Incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, dried cinnamon, or fresh herbs like rosemary into the dough for distinct flavor profiles.
Sweet Treat: Swap savory seeds for a sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar or a handful of raisins mixed into the dough before air frying.
Mini Bagels: Roll smaller pieces of dough for bite-sized snacksperfect for kids, brunch spreads, or parties!
With these ideas, your homemade air fryer bagels will always be a fresh and exciting treat.
Expert Insight: Mastering Air Fryer Bagels
Using an air fryer for bagels streamlines the baking process while maintaining a crisp crust and tender crumb. This simple Air Fryer Bagels recipe offers a quick, accessible way to enjoy fresh bagels, with a gluten-free option ensuring inclusivity without sacrificing texture or flavor.
For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!
The Journey to Perfect Air Fryer Bagels
After several rounds of experimenting, including one crispy-but-too-hard batch, I finally nailed the ideal texture and flavor for these air fryer bagels. Each trial revealed new tips on timing and dough handling, and this recipe is the result of that patient testing, delivering bagels that are both light and satisfyingly chewy every time.
FAQs ( Air Fryer Bagels )
Can I make gluten free bagels in the air fryer?
Yes, this recipe includes a gluten free option that works well in the air fryer. Use a high-quality gluten free flour blend and follow the same cooking time, checking for doneness early to avoid overcooking. The air fryer keeps bagels crisp on the outside and soft inside, even without gluten.
How long do I cook bagels in an air fryer?
For this meal, cook bagels at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even browning. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model, so watch for a golden crust and firm texture before removing.
What are the main ingredients in this dish?
This recipe uses just three basic ingredients: self-rising flour (or gluten-free blend), Greek yogurt, and baking powder. Combining these creates a simple dough that’s quick to mix and produces fluffy, chewy bagels perfect for breakfast or snacks.
Can I freeze the made bagels for later?
Yes, you can freeze leftover bagels. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer bag. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to regain crispness and freshness.
How do I get a crispier crust on the bagels?
For a crispier crust, spray or brush the bagels lightly with water before air frying and increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes if needed. Using the air fryer’s high heat helps develop a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the inside soft.
Conclusion
These homemade Air Fryer Bagels turn out golden, chewy, and ready in under 20 minutesperfect for mornings when both time and texture are crucial. You’ll love how crisp they get on the outside while staying tender inside, all without the usual boiling fuss. Enjoy a fresh, bakery-quality treat right from your own kitchen.
For a little twist, try adding cinnamon and raisins to the dough, or swap the egg wash for olive oil to keep it simple and allergy-friendly. Store leftovers wrapped tightly in the fridge, then reheat quickly in the air fryer to reclaim that just-baked magic. A classic tip from seasoned bakers: let bagels cool fully before slicing to ensure the perfect crumb. These air fryer bagels are flexible and made for sharing.
I’d love to see your bagel creationsdid you grow up enjoying warm baked treats like these? Snap a pic, tag a friend who’d swoon over homemade bagels, and pass along this easy, reliable recipe. There’s a special satisfaction that comes from homemade baking, warming both the heart and the kitchen every time.
