Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels

Name: Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour; 1 egg (for egg wash); Toppings of your choice (sesame seeds, everything seasoning, etc.)

Highlighted under: Clean & Tasty

I absolutely love making Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels! They’re so simple and quick to whip up, and the result is an impressively chewy bagel that you’d think came from a bakery. Using just a few ingredients—yogurt and self-rising flour—I can have fresh bagels ready in no time. The air fryer gives them a perfectly golden finish without the hassle of boiling, making it an ideal recipe even for busy mornings. Trust me, once you try these, you won’t want store-bought bagels ever again!

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:21:36.477Z

When I first discovered how easy it was to make yogurt bagels in the air fryer, I was beyond excited. I remember trying traditional bagels for the first time and being overwhelmed by the boiling step. With this method, all I need is self-rising flour and yogurt, mixed together until a dough forms. The air fryer cooks them evenly, giving them that satisfying bagel texture I adore.

I experimented with toppings during my recipe trials, and let me tell you, everything from sesame seeds to everything bagel seasoning has been a hit! The air fryer locks in the moisture, resulting in a bagel that’s crisp on the outside but chewy on the inside.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation in just 25 minutes
Healthier alternative with no boiling required
Customizable toppings to suit your taste
Deliciously chewy texture that rivals traditional bagels

Key Techniques for Perfect Bagels

The dough for these bagels relies heavily on the balance between the Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. The yogurt adds moisture and creates a tender crumb, while self-rising flour provides the necessary leavening agents. It’s crucial to ensure that the flour is fully incorporated to avoid any dry clumps; mix until the dough is smooth and not sticky. A bowl scraper can be handy in this step to gather all the ingredients together effectively.

When shaping the bagels, it's essential to ensure your hands are slightly floured to prevent sticking, which can affect the final shape. Aim for a uniform thickness around the edges, as this will help them cook evenly. The hole in the center should be large enough to maintain its size during cooking; if too small, it may close up, resulting in a bready texture instead of the delightful chewy bite that bagels are known for.

Customizing Your Bagels

One of the best parts of this recipe is the customization potential. You can experiment with a wide range of toppings to elevate your bagels. Classic options like sesame seeds and poppy seeds add a nutty flavor, while everything seasoning brings a savory mix of garlic and onion. For a sweet twist, consider sprinkling cinnamon sugar before air frying. Just remember, less is often more—about one tablespoon of toppings per bagel ensures a balanced flavor without overwhelming the base.

For those following specific dietary needs, substitutions can be easily made. If you're vegan, swap the egg wash for a plant-based alternative like almond milk mixed with a little cornstarch for shine. Additionally, gluten-free self-rising flour is a suitable option for a gluten-free version, though the texture may slightly differ. Always check the consistency of the dough in these cases; a little bit of extra yogurt may be needed to achieve the right balance.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
1 egg (for egg wash)
Toppings of your choice (sesame seeds, everything seasoning, etc.)

Mix these ingredients well for a perfect dough!

Instructions

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. Mix until a smooth dough forms. Knead gently for a minute until it comes together.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each piece into a ball, then use your finger to make a hole in the center, shaping them into bagels.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.

Egg Wash and Toppings

Beat the egg and brush it on each bagel. Sprinkle your desired toppings over the top.

Air Fry the Bagels

Place the bagels in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Cook for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

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

Enjoy your homemade bagels with cream cheese or your favorite spread!

Pro Tips

For an extra fluffy texture, let the dough rest for 5 minutes before shaping. Experiment with flavored yogurt for different bagel varieties!

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later use. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To extend their shelf life, consider freezing the bagels. Allow them to cool completely, wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer, and when you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the air fryer for about 4-5 minutes at 320°F (160°C).

If you're preparing for a busy morning, you can shape the bagels the night before. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before applying the egg wash and cooking them in the air fryer. This will help ensure that they puff up nicely during cooking, maintaining their chewy texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels come out denser than expected, it might be due to overmixing the dough or not enough leavening. Ensure that your self-rising flour is fresh and has not lost its potency. Additionally, if you find that the dough is too sticky, add a little flour incrementally until it reaches a smooth consistency. Avoid adding too much flour, as that can lead to tough bagels.

Another common issue can be uneven cooking. Make sure to place the bagels in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding, allowing enough space for hot air to circulate. If they are closely packed, they may not air fry properly, resulting in undercooked centers. If you notice some bagels browning too quickly, you can shift their position halfway through the cooking time for even results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use plain yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but using Greek yogurt results in a denser bagel.

→ How can 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 bagels gluten-free?

You can try using a gluten-free self-rising flour blend, but the texture may vary.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist!