Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels

Name: Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 cup self-rising flour; 1 egg (for egg wash); Everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Highlighted under: Ready in Minutes

I love making Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels because they are quick, easy, and utterly delicious. The combination of yogurt and self-rising flour creates a dough that's soft yet chewy, perfect for toasting. Using the air fryer not only saves time but also gives them a lovely golden-brown finish without the need for boiling. I enjoy topping them with everything bagel seasoning and enjoying them fresh out of the fryer. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, these bagels are my go-to for a satisfying treat.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:25:11.590Z

When I first attempted making bagels at home, I was surprised by how simple it could be with yogurt and self-rising flour. I used to think that bagel-making required complicated techniques and boiling. However, using the air fryer changed my perspective. The quick cooking time not only saved me time but provided me with bagels that were soft and fluffy on the inside and delightfully crisp on the outside.

One tip that really helped improve their flavor is letting them rest for a few minutes after mixing the dough. This allows the gluten to relax, which contributes to a better texture. I've also found topping them with a homemade seasoning blend elevates these bagels to a gourmet level without much effort.

Why You'll Love These Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels
Light and fluffy texture that’s satisfying at any time of day
Quick preparation with minimal ingredients
Versatile - perfect for sweet and savory toppings

Perfecting the Dough

The combination of plain yogurt and self-rising flour is the secret to achieving that soft and chewy texture in your bagels. The yogurt provides moisture and tang, while the self-rising flour contributes leavening, allowing the bagels to rise beautifully in the air fryer. When mixing, aim for a consistency that's slightly sticky but manageable; this helps create a tender crumb once cooked. If the dough feels too wet, add small amounts of flour until you reach a workable texture.

Kneading the dough is a crucial step; it activates the gluten, which gives the bagels their ideal structure. Lightly flour your surface and knead just until smooth—about 1 to 2 minutes. Over-kneading can make them tough, so keep it gentle and quick. After kneading, let the dough rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to shape into bagels.

Shaping and Cooking Tips

When shaping the bagels, be sure to create a uniform hole in the center for even cooking. A good method is to poke your finger through the center and gently stretch it, ensuring it's at least an inch wide. This will help prevent the hole from closing during cooking, which can happen easily in the fryer. If you desire a thicker bagel, just make the dough balls slightly larger to maintain their shape during cooking.

Preheating your air fryer is crucial for achieving that golden-brown finish. Set it to 320°F (160°C) and allow it to heat for at least 5 minutes before adding your bagels. Brush the tops with egg wash for a beautiful sheen and flavor. Keep an eye on the bagels as they cook; they should turn a lovely golden brown after about 15 minutes, and you can give them an extra minute or two for additional crispness if desired.

Ingredients

To make these delightful bagels, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup plain yogurt
1 cup self-rising flour
1 egg (for egg wash)
Everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Mix these ingredients nicely for a perfect bagel dough.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels:

Prepare the Dough

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

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then use your finger to make a hole in the center, forming the bagel shape.

Air Fry the Bagels

Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place bagels in the basket, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning if desired. Cook for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Allow the bagels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in herbs or cheese to the dough. Feel free to experiment with different toppings to suit your taste!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Individually wrap each bagel in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They’ll last for up to three months in the freezer, making them a great make-ahead option for busy mornings.

To reheat, you can pop the frozen bagels into the air fryer straight from the freezer for about 8-10 minutes at 320°F (160°C) until warmed through. This reheating method maintains their crisp exterior and soft interior, just as they were when freshly made.

Creative Toppings and Variations

While everything bagel seasoning is a delightful topping, don’t hesitate to get creative! Try sprinkling cinnamon and sugar for a sweet breakfast treat, or top with sliced cheese and herbs for a savory snack. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or spicy seasonings to the dough itself for a flavorful twist.

For a healthier option, you can replace half of the yogurt with Greek yogurt, which adds extra protein and a thicker consistency. You could also experiment with substituting flavored yogurts, like vanilla or berry, to give the bagels a unique taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt works well and will give the bagels a richer flavor.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

→ What can I use instead of self-rising flour?

You can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt.