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 plain Greek yogurt; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 egg (for egg wash); Toppings (such as everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or cheese)

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I've always loved the idea of making bagels at home, but the thought of boiling dough seemed daunting. When I discovered the air fryer method using yogurt as a key ingredient, it felt like I struck gold. These crispy air fryer yogurt bagels are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and no boiling! With a delightful crunch on the outside and a soft, chewy center, they make for a perfect breakfast or snack. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings!

Created by

Zinnia Fairweather

Last updated on 2026-02-10T15:49:34.999Z

When I first tried making bagels using yogurt, I was skeptical about the texture and flavor. To my surprise, the result was nothing short of amazing! The yogurt not only adds a slight tang but also keeps the bagels moist. It’s incredible how a simple swap can elevate the dish.

I learned that air frying not only speeds up the cooking process but also creates that perfect crispy exterior I crave. Topping them with everything bagel seasoning or even a sprinkle of cheese enhances the flavor even further!

Why You'll Love These Bagels

Quick and easy method with no boiling required
Deliciously crispy texture from the air fryer
Customizable toppings for every taste

A Quick Overview of Ingredients

The foundation of these Crispy Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels is the combination of Greek yogurt and all-purpose flour. Greek yogurt not only provides moisture but also adds a slight tanginess that enhances the flavor. It's crucial to use plain Greek yogurt, as flavored varieties can alter the intended taste of the bagels. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, though it may change the bagel's texture slightly.

Baking powder plays a vital role in creating the right rise and texture for these bagels. It reacts with the acidity of the yogurt, which helps the bagels puff up in the air fryer. If you're out of baking powder, you can make a quick substitute by using 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda along with 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar, but this may slightly affect the taste.

Perfecting the Air Fryer Technique

When you're shaping the bagels, make sure to poke the hole larger than you think necessary. As they cook, the dough puffs up, and the hole can close if it’s too small. This is a crucial step for achieving that classic bagel shape, allowing for even cooking and a pleasing texture. Rolling the dough slightly before forming the bagel shape can also help create a uniform texture.

Preheating the air fryer is essential for optimal cooking. I recommend setting it to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes before adding the bagels. This ensures that the bagels begin cooking immediately upon contact, resulting in a crispier exterior. Air fryers can vary in heat distribution, so you might want to check halfway through cooking and rotate or swap their positions if necessary.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Bagels

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 egg (for egg wash)
Toppings (such as everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or cheese)

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

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 form a bagel shape. Make sure the hole is wide enough as it may close during cooking.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Air Fry the Bagels

Place the shaped bagels in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between them. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle your desired toppings. Cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite spreads!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different flavors by adding herbs or spices into the dough. You can also try using whole wheat flour for a healthier option!

Serving Suggestions

These bagels shine when served warm right from the air fryer. They pair beautifully with a variety of spreads such as cream cheese, avocado, or even peanut butter. You can also top them with smoked salmon and capers for a delicious brunch option. For a sweet treat, try spreading them with Nutella and banana slices; the contrast with the crispy exterior is delightful.

Experimenting with toppings can also elevate your bagels. Consider mixing seeds, grated cheese, or herbs directly into the dough before shaping for an extra flavor boost. Additionally, you can explore different seasoning blends, like garlic powder or dried onion flakes, to create custom variations catering to your taste preferences.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These bagels can be made ahead of time for busy mornings. After cooking, allow them to cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy, reheat them in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore their crispiness.

For longer storage, you can freeze the bagels. Once fully cooled, wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply take them straight from the freezer to the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 7-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-Greek yogurt for this recipe?

Yes, but Greek yogurt gives the best texture and flavor for bagels!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

→ What toppings work best on these bagels?

Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or cheddar cheese are excellent choices!