Crispy Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels

Name: Crispy Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1.5 cups self-rising flour; 1 tablespoon honey; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking powder; Sesame seeds; Poppy seeds; Everything bagel seasoning

Highlighted under: Nutritious Creations

I love making these Crispy Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels when I crave something quick yet satisfying. The tanginess from the yogurt combined with a hint of sweetness transforms a simple bagel into a delightful treat. What’s more, the air fryer gives them a golden, crispy finish while keeping the inside chewy. I couldn’t believe how easy it was to whip these up in just a matter of minutes. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, these bagels are a game changer in my kitchen routine.

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:25:37.132Z

When I first decided to make bagels using yogurt and the air fryer, I was skeptical about how they'd turn out. To my surprise, they came out perfectly crisp on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy inside. I think the yogurt really helps keep the bagels moist while providing that rich flavor.

Another valuable tip I discovered is that preheating the air fryer before adding the bagels ensures they cook evenly. It's a simple step, but it makes a big difference in the texture. I can honestly say these bagels have become a staple in my home!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Quick prep time makes them perfect for busy mornings
Healthier alternative with yogurt replacing traditional ingredients
Customizable toppings for different flavor combinations

Making the Most of Your Ingredients

The choice of Greek yogurt is essential for these bagels, as it provides moisture and tanginess that balances the flavors. Opt for full-fat or low-fat yogurt to ensure a rich texture. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, try using a non-dairy yogurt, but make sure it has a similar consistency to Greek yogurt for the best results. The honey not only adds a subtle sweetness but also contributes to the bagels' browning; you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave if preferred.

Self-rising flour simplifies the process by combining flour, baking powder, and salt. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can easily make your own by adding 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to each cup of all-purpose flour. This substitution will work effectively, but be mindful of the flour's weight and the potential for different hydration levels.

Shaping and Cooking Tips

When shaping the bagels, ensure your hands are lightly floured to prevent sticking, which can make the process easier. Instead of simply rolling the dough into ropes, try to aim for an even thickness throughout to ensure they cook uniformly. If you want a larger bagel, consider increasing each dough piece's weight slightly, but keep in mind that this will also extend cooking time, so monitor your bagels closely until they reach a golden brown shade.

Preheating your air fryer is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior. If your air fryer has a convection feature, use it to promote even cooking. Start checking for doneness at the 12-minute mark; depending on your air fryer’s specific model, cooking time may vary slightly. Once done, a gentle tap on the bottom of the bagels should yield a hollow sound, indicating they are perfectly cooked.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1.5 cups self-rising flour
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder

Toppings (optional)

Sesame seeds
Poppy seeds
Everything bagel seasoning

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, self-rising flour, honey, salt, and baking powder until it forms a sticky dough. Knead gently for about one minute until it comes together.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and shape it into a bagel by overlapping the ends.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is key for achieving that crisp texture.

Cook the Bagels

Place the bagels in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown. If you’re using toppings, sprinkle them on the bagels halfway through cooking.

Cool and Serve

Once done, remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Enjoy warm or toasted with your favorite spread!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings in the dough for added flavor, like garlic powder or dried herbs.

Storage and Freezing

If you have leftover bagels, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, these bagels freeze beautifully. Simply wrap each cooled bagel in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will retain their texture and flavor for up to two months. To reheat, pop them in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through.

When reheating bagels that have been frozen, consider slicing them in half for even warming and a crispier finish. This method not only reduces reheating time but also allows you to add toppings like cream cheese or avocado while they are still warm, enhancing flavor and texture.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with toppings to make these bagels your own! In addition to sesame seeds and poppy seeds, try sprinkling on some finely grated cheese or fresh herbs before cooking for an Italian twist. You can also mix some cinnamon and sugar into the dough for a sweet breakfast variation. I love adding a few tablespoons of dried cranberries or raisins for an extra pop of flavor.

For a savory kick, incorporate some minced garlic or onion powder into the dough. This small adjustment can make a huge difference in flavor. You could also try subbing in whole wheat flour for part of the self-rising flour to add depth and nutrients. Just keep in mind that this may alter the bagel's texture slightly, so be prepared to adjust liquids as needed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-fat yogurt?

Yes, non-fat yogurt works well too, but the bagels might be slightly less moist.

→ What if I don’t have self-rising flour?

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

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Absolutely! Once they are completely cool, place them in a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ How do I reheat them?

To reheat, simply pop them in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to get them warm and crispy again.