Easy Homemade Air Fryer Bagel Recipe | Quick and Healthy Bagels

Bagels are a timeless breakfast and snack favorite, but making them from scratch can feel intimidating, especially if you’re new to baking. Enter the air fryer—a game-changer for creating delicious, homemade bagels in less time than it takes to drive to your local bakery. This Air Fryer Bagel Recipe is quick, simple, and customizable, allowing you to enjoy fresh, warm bagels at home without any fuss. Plus, they’re healthier than store-bought versions, using minimal ingredients and no preservatives.

---

Introduction

Bagels have long been a staple in many households, loved for their chewy texture and versatility. Whether slathered with cream cheese, piled high with smoked salmon, or served plain with butter, there’s no wrong way to enjoy them. While traditional bagel recipes involve boiling and baking, this modern take skips the boiling step and uses an air fryer to achieve a golden, slightly crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.

This recipe is ideal for busy mornings, lazy weekends, or when you’re craving something fresh but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Using simple pantry ingredients, you can whip up a batch of bagels in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike, this recipe also allows you to experiment with flavors and toppings to make the bagels your own.

---

Nutrition (Per Bagel)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 210mg

---

Details at a Glance

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Breakfast, Snack
• Servings: 4 bagels
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Active Time: 10 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

---

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Baking parchment or air fryer liners
• Pastry brush
• Measuring cups and spoons

---

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (non-fat or full-fat, unsweetened)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Toppings of your choice: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or shredded cheese

---

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the Greek yogurt to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough starts to form. Use your hands to knead the dough gently for 2-3 minutes until it is smooth and slightly tacky. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.

Step 2: Shape the Bagels

1. Divide the dough into four equal portions.
2. Roll each portion into a ball, then poke your finger through the center to create a hole about 1-2 inches wide. Gently shape the bagels into even rings.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.
2. Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or an air fryer liner to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Add Egg Wash and Toppings

1. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it evenly over the top and sides of each bagel.
2. Sprinkle your chosen toppings over the bagels. Be generous for a flavorful crust!

Step 5: Air Fry the Bagels

1. Place the bagels in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch each other.
2. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown and cooked through. Flip them halfway through for even browning.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

1. Remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes.
2. Serve warm with your favorite spreads or toppings, or store them in an airtight container for up to two days.

---

Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overwork the Dough: Kneading the dough too much can make the bagels tough. Aim for just enough to bring the dough together.
2. Adjust the Yogurt: Depending on the brand of Greek yogurt you use, the dough’s texture may vary. Add flour or yogurt as needed to achieve a smooth consistency.
3. Experiment with Flavors: Mix herbs, garlic powder, or shredded cheese into the dough for a creative twist.

---

Customization Ideas

• Sweet Bagels: Add 1 tablespoon of sugar or honey to the dough and top with cinnamon sugar.
• Savory Bagels: Mix shredded cheddar or Parmesan into the dough and sprinkle with garlic powder.
• Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.

---

Why Use an Air Fryer for Bagels?

The air fryer uses circulating hot air to cook the bagels quickly and evenly, giving them a golden crust without needing an oven or boiling water. It’s a more energy-efficient and convenient method that’s perfect for small-batch recipes. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!

---

This Air Fryer Bagel Recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the idea of homemade bagels without the hassle. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick breakfast, these bagels are sure to impress. Try this recipe today, and you might never go back to store-bought bagels again!