Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels Plain

Name: Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels Plain
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 2 cups self-rising flour; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 egg (for egg wash, optional); Sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Meals

I love making these Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels because they are incredibly easy to prepare and yield delightful results every time. The combination of yogurt and self-rising flour creates a soft and chewy texture that perfectly mimics traditional bagels. With just a few minutes of prep and a quick cook time, I find that these bagels are perfect for busy mornings or as a snack throughout the day. Plus, they’re versatile enough to be dressed up with your favorite toppings or enjoyed plain.

Created by

Xenia Radcliffe

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:13:35.280Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of making yogurt bagels in the air fryer, I was skeptical. However, after my first attempt, I was amazed at how fluffy and delicious they turned out. I realized that the high heat of the air fryer helps to create a beautiful crust while keeping the inside perfectly moist. This method not only saves time but also eliminates the need for boiling.

With each batch, I've experimented with different variations, but the plain bagel version remains a favorite. The simplicity of yogurt and flour allows for endless topping possibilities, from cream cheese to fresh herbs. I highly recommend trying these with a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for an extra flavor boost!

        Why You'll Love These Bagels
        Quick and easy to make with just two key ingredients
Perfectly chewy texture reminiscent of traditional bagels
Great for customizing with various toppings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels lies in the unique combination of self-rising flour and Greek yogurt. Self-rising flour contains baking powder and salt, allowing for a leavened dough without the need for yeast. This not only simplifies the process but also contributes to the soft, airy texture of the bagels. Additionally, the high protein content in Greek yogurt enhances the dough's structure, giving it that satisfying chew we associate with traditional bagels.

Should you find yourself without self-rising flour, a quick substitute can be made by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt. For every cup of all-purpose flour, add 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt to achieve a similar effect. This swap is effective but note that it may slightly alter the texture of the final product.

Shaping the Bagels

When it comes to shaping your bagels, consistency is key. Each bagel should be approximately the same size for even cooking. Now, while rolling the dough into balls, aim for a smooth surface to minimize cracks. If you notice cracks forming, gently knead the dough before shaping. After forming the ball, use your finger to poke through the center, gradually enlarging the hole. This step is crucial, as a larger hole ensures that the bagels cook evenly, preventing doughy centers.

If you're new to bagel shaping, try using the 'twist' method: roll the dough into a snake shape, twist the ends together, and pinch to seal; this can create an attractive look. Just ensure that the joint is sealed well, or it may come apart during cooking, affecting the bagel's integrity.

Serving and Storing Your Bagels

Once your bagels are golden brown and have a slight sheen, they’re ready to be enjoyed warm but can also be stored for later use. For storage, let your bagels cool completely on a wire rack to prevent moisture buildup. Once cool, they can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To freeze, wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will last for up to three months, and can be easily reheated in a toaster or air fryer.

In terms of serving, these bagels are incredibly versatile! Spread a layer of cream cheese, infuse with homemade herb spreads, or even layer turkey and avocado for a hearty sandwich. You can also experiment with toppings like cinnamon-sugar, garlic powder, or a pinch of sea salt before cooking to enhance flavor. Just be mindful of the added moisture that can come from toppings, especially if you’re using fresh herbs or seeds. It might require adjusting your cooking time slightly to ensure they remain crisp.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for your Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels:

Ingredients

2 cups self-rising flour
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
Sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt. Stir until a dough forms. If the dough is sticky, add a bit more flour as needed.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball and then poke a hole in the center to form the bagel shape. Gently stretch the hole to make it larger.

Preheat the Air Fryer

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

Cook the Bagels

Place the shaped bagels in the air fryer basket. If desired, brush them with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds or seasoning. Cook for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Once cooked, remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For a sweeter bagel, add a tablespoon of honey to the dough. You can also experiment with adding in herbs or cheese for added flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels turn out denser than expected, it could be due to overworking the dough. Remember to mix just until combined and avoid excessive kneading. If they are too dry, consider adding a small amount of yogurt to the mixture—this can help bring moisture back into the dough without needing to restart the process.

Another common problem is bagels sticking to the basket of the air fryer. To combat this, ensure that you lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil before placing in your bagels. Additionally, allow enough space between each bagel; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and sticking.

Flavor Variations

For those who enjoy a touch of sweetness, consider incorporating mini chocolate chips or dried fruit like raisins or cranberries into the dough. This can create a delightful breakfast option when served with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Just be cautious not to overload the dough, as too many additions can affect the bagel's structure and cooking time.

On the savory side, finely diced onions or chopped fresh herbs like chives or dill can be mixed into the dough. These additions can elevate the flavor profile and make your bagels even more enjoyable. Experiment with seasonal ingredients to match your palate, creating unique variations that can be made throughout the year.

Scaling the Recipe

If you decide to double the recipe for a larger gathering or meal prep, just maintain the same ratio of ingredients. However, be mindful of your air fryer's capacity; you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cooking in smaller groups ensures that each bagel gets the proper airflow needed for even cooking, resulting in a perfect texture throughout.

For those looking for a smaller batch, you can easily halve the recipe. Keep in mind that the cooking time might slightly decrease; start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier. Each air fryer is different, so adjust based on your specific model's performance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?

Yes, but you will need to add baking powder and salt to make it rise.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for longer preservation.

→ Can these bagels be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

→ What toppings go well with yogurt bagels?

Anything from cream cheese, smoked salmon, to avocado works beautifully with these bagels!