Crispy Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels

Name: Crispy Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 egg (for egg wash); Toppings (such as sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning)

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Ideas

I love starting my day with a delicious bagel, but I often want something quicker and healthier. That's why I’ve fallen in love with these crispy air fryer yogurt bagels. They’re incredibly simple to make, and with just a few ingredients, you can have homemade bagels ready in under 30 minutes. The air fryer gives them that perfect golden-crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and chewy. Trust me, once you try pairing them with your favorite spread, you'll never want store-bought bagels again!

Created by

Genevieve Porter

Last updated on 2026-02-14T22:59:35.933Z

Trying out new recipes can sometimes lead to unexpected results, and that’s exactly what happened when I decided to make these air fryer yogurt bagels. I experimented with different ratios of flour to yogurt and found that the key was to achieve the right consistency. It could be a bit sticky, but that just leads to a fluffier bagel!

The air fryer not only cooks these bagels faster than a traditional oven but also produces a wonderfully crispy texture without needing excess oil. My secret is allowing them to cool for a couple of minutes after frying – it really helps set that crispy outer layer!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Simple ingredients that you probably already have at home
Crispy exterior with a soft and chewy center
Versatile and can be customized with toppings or spreads

Understanding the Ingredients

The charm of these air fryer yogurt bagels lies in their simplicity, but each ingredient plays a crucial role. Greek yogurt not only provides moisture but also imparts a subtle tang, which is essential for a good flavor profile. When choosing yogurt, make sure to use plain, full-fat Greek yogurt for the best texture and richness. Low-fat variations might result in a drier bagel that lacks the necessary chew.

All-purpose flour is the foundation of the dough, providing structure and stability. If you prefer a healthier option, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This may give the bagels a slightly denser texture but will enhance their nutritional value. Just be aware that too much whole wheat flour can make the bagels crumbly, so balancing the ratios is key.

Perfecting the Bagel Shape

Shaping the bagels properly is vital for both aesthetics and cooking. When rolling the dough pieces into balls, make sure they are smooth, as this will aid even cooking. When poking a hole through the center, aim for a diameter of about 1-1.5 inches; if the hole is too small, it may close during cooking, yielding a less desirable shape. I like to twist my fingers slightly while expanding the hole to ensure it maintains its size.

If you find that the dough is too sticky to handle, don’t hesitate to sprinkle a little extra flour on your hands or the work surface. This can prevent sticking and help you create a nicer shape. Remember that even though the bagels are homemade, they shouldn’t sacrifice form for taste; a well-shaped bagel contributes to even cooking and a lovely presentation.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your bagels are cool, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. However, if you wish to keep them fresher for a longer period, consider freezing them. To freeze, wrap each bagel in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply remove them from the freezer and reheat in the air fryer for about 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) for that same crispiness.

These yogurt bagels are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for various spreads and toppings. While cream cheese is a classic choice, don’t shy away from trying flavored hummus, avocado, or even chicken salad for a protein-packed breakfast or lunch. You can also switch up the toppings before air-frying; sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar for a sweet treat or add cheese for a savory twist. Experimentation can lead to delightful results!

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for these easy air fryer yogurt bagels.

Ingredients

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 egg (for egg wash)
Toppings (such as sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning)

Make sure to check for any additional toppings you might like!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your bagels.

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms and then knead lightly on a floured surface until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball and then carefully poke a hole in the center with your fingers, shaping it into a bagel.

Air Fry the Bagels

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Brush the bagels with beaten egg and sprinkle with your choice of toppings. Place them in the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bagels to cool for a few minutes before serving them warm with your favorite spreads. Enjoy!

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.

Pro Tips

Experiment with different flavorings in the dough, such as dried herbs or cheese, to elevate your bagels even more!

Tips for a Crispy Finish

Achieving the perfect crispy exterior while maintaining a chewy interior is all about monitoring the air fryer temperature and time. Preheating the air fryer is crucial; this ensures the bagels start cooking immediately and helps form that desired golden crust. Keep an eye on the bagels as they cook, especially toward the end of the cooking time, to prevent over-browning.

If you're striving for an even crispier texture, consider giving the bagels a second fry. After the initial 15 minutes, you can turn the bagels and air fry them for another 3-5 minutes. This extra step can elevate your bagels and give them the perfect bite.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to get creative with your bagel toppings! Instead of just sesame seeds or everything seasoning, you can experiment with poppy seeds, dried herbs, or even a sprinkle of cheese on top before air frying. Incorporating ingredients like chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or jalapeños into the dough can also add delightful flavors and make each batch unique.

For a delightful twist, try adding a bit of sweetener and cinnamon to the dough for a bagel that can pair wonderfully with sweeter spreads. A tablespoon of honey or maple syrup can transform these bagels into a breakfast treat that feels indulgent yet remains healthy.

Common Troubleshooting

If you encounter dough that is too sticky while mixing, add flour gradually, as too much can make the bagels dry. A well-hydrated dough is ideal, but it needs to be manageable. If your bagels are coming out too dense, consider reducing the flour slightly or adding an extra bit of yogurt to keep the texture light.

Another common issue is uneven cooking. To prevent this, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Instead of cooking all four bagels at once, air fry them in batches if necessary. This helps ensure that the hot air circulates evenly around each bagel, providing a better overall texture and cook.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-Greek yogurt?

Yes, but Greek yogurt gives the best texture and flavor.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Absolutely! Place them in a freezer bag and freeze for up to three months.

→ What can I top my bagels with?

Anything from cream cheese to avocado, or even smoked salmon works wonderfully!