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 Greek yogurt; 1 ½ cups self-rising flour; 1 egg (for egg wash); Optional toppings: Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds

Highlighted under: Wellness Plates

I never knew making bagels could be so simple and fun until I tried these Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels! The combination of just two main ingredients—yogurt and self-rising flour—creates the perfect dough that yields soft, chewy bagels without the hassle of boiling or traditional baking methods. With just 20 minutes of prep and cooking time, I can enjoy warm, freshly made bagels anytime I crave them. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile and can be topped with your favorite spreads or seasonings.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:25:11.973Z

When I first attempted these Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels, I was amazed by how quickly they came together. Using just plain yogurt and self-rising flour, I mixed the dough in less than five minutes and let the air fryer do the rest. It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves fresh bagels but is short on time or doesn’t want to deal with the traditional baking process.

The best part is that experimenting with toppings is my favorite aspect of making these bagels. Whether I use everything bagel seasoning or a drizzle of honey, every batch turns out delicious. This method not only saves time but results in bagels that are perfectly golden and fluffy.

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Quick and easy to make with only two ingredients
Soft and chewy texture that rivals bakery bagels
Perfect for breakfast or as a snack any time of day

Mastering the Dough

The foundation of these Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels is the unique combination of plain Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. Greek yogurt adds moisture and a slight tanginess while providing the necessary leavening agent through the baking powder in self-rising flour. This duo requires minimal mixing and encourages an easy-to-handle dough that results in a texturally pleasing bagel without excessive kneading. Remember, over-kneading can lead to dense bagels, so just knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.

When forming the dough, you want to ensure you achieve a consistent, soft texture. If the dough feels too sticky, add a bit more self-rising flour, but keep it light—aim for just enough flour to make it manageable. Using a floured surface will help prevent sticking. It’s best to work quickly after mixing to maintain the dough's texture before it starts to dry out.

Shaping Tips

Shaping the bagels correctly is vital for achieving the right look and texture. Each piece of dough should be rolled into a smooth ball first before being poked with your finger to create the hole in the center. It’s helpful to dust your fingers with flour when shaping to prevent sticking. Aim for a uniform hole size; a 1 to 1.5-inch diameter will ensure even cooking throughout.

To keep your bagels round and even, avoid overly aggressive manipulation of the dough. Gently stretch the dough to form the bagel shape, and let it rest briefly before cooking. This rest allows the gluten to relax, which can help prevent them from shrinking during the cooking process.

Air Fryer Cooking Secrets

Preheating your air fryer is a crucial step for achieving a crisp exterior on your bagels. Cooking at 350°F (175°C) creates an ideal environment that allows the bagels to puff up while forming a golden crust. Make sure to keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time; the bagels should be golden brown but not overdone, which may take anywhere from 8 to 12 minutes depending on your air fryer model.

If you’re looking to customize your bagels further, consider adding a sprinkle of your favorite toppings right before cooking. The egg wash not only provides a beautiful sheen but also helps the toppings adhere to the bagels. For a fun twist, try blending different toppings, like a mix of everything seasoning with sesame seeds, to elevate your bagels’ flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels:

Ingredients

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 ½ cups self-rising flour
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional toppings: Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds

Mix and prepare the ingredients to make your delicious bagels!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and self-rising flour until a dough forms. Knead the dough gently on a floured surface for a few minutes until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then poke a hole in the center to shape it into a bagel.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). While it preheats, brush the bagels with the beaten egg for a gold finish.

Cook the Bagels

Place the bagels in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between them. Cook for 10 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy your warm and fresh bagels with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor burst, try adding spices or herbs into the dough before frying. You can also experiment with high-protein yogurts for a different texture.

Storage and Freshness

Freshly made bagels are best enjoyed immediately, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To maintain their texture, avoid refrigerating them, as this can cause them to become stale faster. If you’re not planning to eat them right away, consider freezing the bagels.

For freezing, let the bagels cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in a toaster from frozen until warmed through, helping to restore that delightful chewy texture.

Dietary Swaps and Variations

For those looking for gluten-free options, swap self-rising flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes a leavening agent. Keep in mind the texture might differ slightly, so adjust the yogurt amount as needed to achieve a dough that's easy to shape. Additionally, using dairy-free yogurt can make these bagels suitable for a vegan diet.

Experimenting with flavors is another exciting facet of this recipe. Try incorporating spices or herbs into the dough, such as garlic powder or dried herbs, for a savory kick. Alternatively, adding sweet elements like cinnamon or even chocolate chips can transform these bagels into a delightful sweet treat for breakfast or brunch.

Serving Suggestions

Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Serve them warm with cream cheese for a classic breakfast or add avocado and a sprinkle of salt for a nourishing snack. For a heartier meal, consider making a bagel sandwich filled with eggs, smoked salmon, or roasted vegetables.

If you're feeling adventurous, try using your bagels as a base for mini pizzas. Top them with marinara sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings, then pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until the cheese melts. This method not only creates a quick and fun lunch but also allows for endless customization based on your cravings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use plain yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but Greek yogurt will give you a denser texture. Plain yogurt may result in a softer bagel.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free self-rising flour blend to create a gluten-free version.

→ What can I top these bagels with?

Feel free to use any toppings you like! Cream cheese, avocado, or even a drizzle of honey are all fantastic options.