Crispy Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels

Name: Crispy Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional); 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional); 1 egg (for egg wash); Everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Highlighted under: Fast & Flavorful

I absolutely love making these Crispy Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels as they are not only incredibly simple but also burst with flavor. The air fryer gives them a delightful crispiness that is hard to achieve with traditional baking methods. With just a few basic ingredients like yogurt and flour, I can whip up a batch in no time. They are perfect for breakfast or a quick snack, and the best part is that they stay soft on the inside while developing a perfect golden crust on the outside. You’ll want to make these again and again!

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:05:36.682Z

Making Crispy Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels has become a favorite ritual in my kitchen. The process is surprisingly straightforward; I mix Greek yogurt with self-rising flour and a pinch of salt, then shape the dough into bagels. The air fryer does its magic in under fifteen minutes, resulting in perfectly puffed and crunchy bagels. I appreciate that they can be enjoyed plain or topped with my favorite spreads!

One of the key tips I discovered is preheating the air fryer before placing the bagels inside. This step not only ensures quick cooking but also enhances their crispiness. I've experimented with seasonings, too, and adding everything bagel seasoning makes them even more delightful. Trust me; these bagels will become a staple in your home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation with minimal ingredients
Crispy exterior coupled with a soft interior
Customizable toppings to suit any taste
Perfect for breakfast or snacking

Understanding the Ingredients

The primary ingredient in these Crispy Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels is Greek yogurt, which not only provides moisture but also contributes to the bagels' tender texture thanks to its high protein content. The self-rising flour is essential for giving these bagels their lift and structure, as it contains baking powder and salt. This combination allows for a quick preparation, eliminating the need to measure and mix additional leavening agents. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute the self-rising flour with all-purpose flour along with 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt.

In addition to the flour and yogurt, adding garlic and onion powder can elevate the flavor profile, creating a savory base. However, feel free to omit these spices if you prefer a more traditional bagel flavor or if you're planning on topping them sweetly. Everything bagel seasoning is a fun way to finish them off, giving a nice crunch and burst of flavor that’s reminiscent of classic bagels commonly found in delis.

Perfecting the Shaping Technique

Shaping the bagels is a crucial step that influences both their aesthetic and texture. When dividing the dough, make sure to handle it gently to maintain the air bubbles created by the yogurt and self-rising flour. Forming smooth, tight balls ensures the bagels have a nice rise and uniform shape. Remember to poke a hole quickly but carefully in the center; a proper-sized hole allows the bagel to expand without closing up during cooking.

Stretching the hole gently is vital. If you find the hole closing back up, simply adjust it with your fingers to ensure it maintains its shape while it cooks. This attention to detail will result in bagels that not only look appealing but also have a consistent crust-to-bread ratio, enhancing the overall mouthfeel when you bite into them.

Cooling and Storage Tips

After air frying, letting the bagels cool on a wire rack is essential. This prevents steam from building up underneath, which could lead to soggy bottoms. Aim for about 5-10 minutes of cooling; during this time, the bagels will firm up and develop an appealing crust. You’ll know they’re ready to serve when they feel slightly firm to the touch and have a lovely gold-brown color on the outside.

If you're making a large batch, consider storing extras. These bagels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, simply pop them back into the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This will restore their crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. Alternatively, they can be sliced and toasted for a quick breakfast or snack later.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Crispy Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels

For the Bagels

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Instructions

Instructions for Making the Bagels

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, self-rising flour, and salt. If desired, add garlic and onion powder for additional flavor. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center to form a bagel shape. Gently stretch the hole to ensure it maintains its shape.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Set the air fryer to preheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Air Fry the Bagels

Place the shaped bagels in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle everything bagel seasoning if desired. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 12 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Once done, remove the bagels from the air fryer and allow them to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite spreads or toppings.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding herbs or cheese into the dough before shaping. These bagels are versatile
you can enjoy them plain or topped with anything from cream cheese to homemade spreads.

Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels are versatile and can be served with a variety of toppings. For a classic breakfast option, spread cream cheese and top with fresh chives or smoked salmon. Alternatively, if you have a sweet tooth, layer with Nutella or your favorite fruit preserves to create a delightful afternoon snack. You can even slice them in half and make a breakfast sandwich with eggs and avocado for a heartier meal.

Consider pairing the bagels with a side of fresh fruit or a simple arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing breakfast or brunch spread. The crispy exterior of the bagels complements the softness of the spreads, making for a delightful contrast in textures.

Experimenting with Flavors

One of the joys of making these bagels is how easy they are to customize. You might consider adding herbs such as dill, rosemary, or thyme directly into the dough for a different flavor profile. Cheeses like grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar can also be folded in to enrich the taste, creating a different take on traditional bagels.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try different topping combinations based on seasonal ingredients or what you have on hand. For example, roasted tomatoes, arugula, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction make a gourmet-style bagel. The simplicity of the dough allows for endless creativity, so don't hesitate to experiment!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

While Greek yogurt gives the best texture, you can use regular yogurt, but the dough may be stickier and less dense.

→ How do I store the bagels?

Store the bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them and toast when ready to eat.

→ Can I add toppings to the bagels?

Absolutely! Feel free to top the bagels with everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or even grated cheese before air frying.

→ What can I serve with these bagels?

These bagels pair beautifully with cream cheese, smoked salmon, avocado, or even simple butter and jam.