Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels

Name: Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek works best); 1.5 cups self-rising flour; 1 egg (for egg wash); Toppings of choice (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, etc.)

Highlighted under: Wellness Food

I recently discovered how incredibly easy and satisfying it is to make bagels at home with just two simple ingredients: yogurt and self-rising flour. After countless attempts, I can finally say that air frying these bagels gives them a perfect golden-brown crust while keeping them light and fluffy inside. With minimal prep and cooking time, these bagels have quickly become a family favorite, especially topped with cream cheese or homemade spreads. I can't wait for you to try this simple yet delicious recipe!

Created by

Cleo Winter

Last updated on 2026-03-05T08:41:53.457Z

When I first tried making yogurt bagels, I was astounded at how quick the process was! Mixing just yogurt and flour creates a versatile dough that shapes easily into bagels. The air fryer perfectly cooks them through, resulting in a delightful texture that’s not too dense. I sprinkled a few sesame seeds on top before air frying for a bit of extra flavor and crunch.

One trick I've found is to allow the dough to rest for a few minutes. This helps the gluten relax, making it easier to shape. The air fryer’s heat circulates so efficiently that you’ll be amazed at how quickly they turn golden brown. I recommend serving them fresh with your favorite spread!

Why You'll Love These Bagels

Minimal ingredients mean quick preparation
Air frying creates a perfect crispy exterior
Customizable toppings for every taste
Great for breakfast or a quick snack

The Science Behind the Ingredients

The simplicity of this bagel recipe comes from the two primary ingredients: yogurt and self-rising flour. The yogurt not only acts as a binding agent but also introduces moisture, which gives the bagels their light and tender crumb. Greek yogurt is recommended for its thicker texture, which can provide a denser bagel. If you're in a pinch, a dairy-free yogurt can also be used, but make sure it's unsweetened and has a similar consistency to Greek yogurt.

Self-rising flour consists of regular flour combined with a leavening agent and salt. This combination allows for immediate elevation during cooking, ensuring that the bagels puff up beautifully. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by mixing 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour with 2.25 teaspoons of baking powder and 0.75 teaspoons of salt. This substitution can guarantee that your bagels still rise effectively in the air fryer.

Making Perfectly Shaped Bagels

When shaping the bagels, aim for uniformity in size to ensure even cooking. A digital kitchen scale can help you divide the dough accurately—each piece should weigh around 100 grams. To create the classic bagel shape, roll each dough ball into a rope and then bring the ends together. When you poke a hole through the center, be sure to stretch it slightly wider than you expect, as it will shrink slightly during cooking.

Another tip for shaping is to avoid overworking the dough. If you knead too much, the gluten may develop too much elasticity, resulting in tougher bagels. Just knead until the dough is combined and smooth. This approach keeps them light and fluffy, which is the hallmark of a great homemade bagel.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting the process.

Ingredients

1 cup plain yogurt (Greek works best)
1.5 cups self-rising flour
1 egg (for egg wash)
Toppings of choice (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, etc.)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your bagels.

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt and self-rising flour until a dough forms. Knead a few times on a floured surface until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center to create a bagel shape.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).

Egg Wash and Topping

Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush over the bagels. Sprinkle with your desired toppings.

Air Fry the Bagels

Place the bagels in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your freshly made bagels!

Pro Tips

For an even fluffier bagel, consider letting the dough sit for an extra 5 minutes before shaping.

Serving Suggestions

Once your bagels have cooled slightly, you can slice them open and add your favorite spreads. Cream cheese is a classic topping, but try adding herbs or spices to create unique flavors. You can also use avocado mash, nut butter, or even a dollop of hummus for a savory twist. Each spread adds both flavor and nutrition, making your bagels a versatile meal option.

Consider creating a bagel bar during breakfast or brunch. Offer a variety of toppings like smoked salmon, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and capers to allow everyone to customize their bagels to their liking. This fun and interactive way to serve encourages creativity and can adapt to dietary restrictions easily.

Storage and Reheating

These bagels are best eaten fresh, but they can also be stored for a few days. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer to keep them longer, freeze the bagels by placing them in a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to three months without losing their fluffy texture, though they are best consumed within one month for optimal flavor.

To reheat frozen bagels, simply pop them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. If you like them extra crispy, add an additional minute or two. Alternatively, you can toast them from frozen in a regular toaster for a quicker option that brings back the fresh-baked flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising?

Yes, but you'll need to add baking powder and salt to mimic self-rising flour.

→ What toppings can I use for the bagels?

You can use any toppings you like, such as sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or even cheese.

→ How should I store leftover bagels?

Store bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours before shaping and cooking.