Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels

Name: Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); Sesame seeds; Everything bagel seasoning; Sea salt

Highlighted under: Balanced Meal Studio

I absolutely love making Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels because they are quick, simple, and incredibly satisfying! The process combines just a few ingredients to create bagels that are chewy on the outside and soft on the inside. What’s great is that I can enjoy these tasty treats without the hassle of boiling water or heating up my kitchen unnecessarily. Just a few minutes in the air fryer and I have fresh bagels ready to enjoy with my favorite toppings!

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:37:16.623Z

When I first decided to try making bagels in the air fryer, I was impressed by how effortlessly they turned out. I replaced traditional dough with a yogurt-based mixture, which not only saved time but also kept the bagels super light and fluffy. I learned that kneading is minimal, which is fantastic for a busy morning.

To enhance the flavor, I experimented with different toppings. My favorite has become a mixture of sesame seeds and everything bagel seasoning, which adds a wonderful crunch and savory taste. Each bite has a delightful balance of textures that keeps me going back for more!

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation in just 25 minutes
Chewy texture with a fluffy, yogurt-based inside
Versatile toppings to customize every bagel
Healthier alternative to traditional bagels

Understanding the Ingredients

The beauty of these Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels lies in their simple ingredient list. All-purpose flour provides the base for chewy bagels, while Greek yogurt enriches the dough with moisture and a slight tang, enhancing the overall flavor and texture. Baking powder acts as a leavening agent, ensuring your bagels rise nicely, while salt enhances all the other flavors. Optional honey can provide a subtle sweetness but is not essential if you're looking for a savory bagel.

Using plain Greek yogurt is key to achieving that perfect chewy texture. Its higher protein content helps the dough maintain structure and boost flavor. If you're looking to make these bagels dairy-free, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a thick dairy-free yogurt alternative, keeping in mind that it may alter the texture slightly. Additionally, experimenting with whole wheat flour or other flours can offer different flavor profiles and nutritional benefits.

Air Frying Tips

Preheating your air fryer is crucial for even cooking. Without this initial heat, your bagels may cook unevenly, resulting in a doughy center. Aim for 350°F (175°C) and give it at least 5 minutes to preheat. During cooking, keep an eye on the bagels; they should become golden brown with slight crispiness on the outside while remaining soft on the inside. If they look pale or soft after 12 minutes, give them an extra couple of minutes to achieve that perfect finish.

While the Air Fryer allows for quick cooking, you should also avoid overcrowding the basket. Depending on its size, you may need to cook the bagels in batches. This ensures that hot air circulates freely around each bagel, allowing them to cook uniformly. Consider placing a piece of parchment paper at the bottom of the basket for easy cleanup, but make sure it doesn't touch the heating element.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey (optional)

For Topping (optional)

Sesame seeds
Everything bagel seasoning
Sea salt

Mix and match your favorite toppings for variety!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the Greek yogurt and honey, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 2-3 minutes until slightly smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a rope, then shape the rope into a circle, pinching the ends to seal. Make sure the center hole is wide enough.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Cook the Bagels

Place the bagels in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. You might have to do this in batches.

Add Toppings

If desired, brush the bagels with a little yogurt or water and sprinkle with your chosen toppings before the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Let the bagels cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For even fluffier bagels, ensure your yogurt is creamy and the dough isn't overworked. Experiment with flavored yogurts for a different twist!

Serving Suggestions

Once your air fryer yogurt bagels are ready, the options for toppings are endless! Cream cheese is a classic choice; however, consider flavored varieties, such as herb or smoked salmon cream cheese, to elevate your bagel experience. For a more filling option, top with avocado and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick, or go the sweet route with almond butter and sliced bananas.

These bagels also pair wonderfully with soups and salads for a light lunch. Simply toast them lightly before serving, enhancing their texture and flavor. If you're hosting a brunch, set up a bagel bar with an array of spreads and toppings so everyone can customize their breakfast. It’s a fun way to sample different menus!

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftover bagels, storing them correctly is essential to maintain freshness. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the bagels in a single layer before transferring them to a resealable freezer bag, which can last up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature and reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes for that freshly cooked taste.

To refresh your bagels from the freezer, consider slicing them before freezing. This allows you to toast or air fry just one or two bagels at a time, minimizing waste and effort. If you find your bagels are a bit dry after reheating, a thin spread of butter or a quick mist of water before airing can help restore moisture without compromising their texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use self-rising flour?

Yes, you can substitute self-rising flour for all-purpose flour and omit the baking powder and salt.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour if needed. Just check that the yogurt is also gluten-free.

→ What can I serve with these bagels?

They pair beautifully with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or fresh veggies. Get creative with your toppings!