Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels

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

Highlighted under: Quick Fix Meals

I absolutely love making these Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels at home! Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up, but their soft, chewy texture and delightful flavor make them a favorite in our household. The combination of yogurt and self-rising flour creates a dough that’s not only quick to prepare but also yields perfect bagels that are lower in calories. I can customize them with toppings like everything seasoning or sesame seeds for an extra special touch. It’s a breakfast or snack I can feel good about enjoying anytime.

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:25:12.072Z

When I first decided to make bagels in the air fryer, I was honestly skeptical about how they would turn out. However, after experimenting a few times, I can confidently say that this method yields equally delicious results as traditional boiling and baking. The air fryer circulates heat around the bagels, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.

I found that using plain Greek yogurt combined with self-rising flour is a game-changer, giving the bagels a nice rise without needing any additional yeast or long rising times. For added flavor, I love brushing my bagels with a bit of olive oil and sprinkling them with everything bagel seasoning before air frying for that perfect finish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Soft, chewy bagels that are quick to make
Lower in calories compared to traditional bagels
Can be customized with your favorite toppings

Crafting the Perfect Dough

The key to achieving the perfect texture in your Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels lies in the dough. Combining self-rising flour and Greek yogurt creates a unique mixture that’s not only easy to handle but also contributes to a wonderfully chewy bagel. I recommend gently kneading the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, about 2-3 minutes. If you find the dough still feels sticky, sprinkle in additional self-rising flour gradually, as this will help achieve that ideal consistency without compromising flavor.

Another tip I have is to avoid over-kneading the dough. While you want it to be smooth, too much kneading can lead to tough bagels. Aim for that perfect balance where the dough holds together well but still has some elasticity. If it stretches without breaking, you’re in great shape! Remember, the goal is for the dough to be slightly tacky but manageable.

Perfecting Your Bagel Shape

Shaping your bagels is not only fun but critical for the final appearance and texture. When dividing the dough into portions, aim for even pieces; this will ensure they cook uniformly in the air fryer. I usually weigh the dough portions to make sure they’re roughly the same size, resulting in even baking and consistent texture across each bagel.

After rolling each piece into a ball, it’s essential to create the hole in the center correctly. I recommend using your finger and gently stretching the hole to create a well-defined shape. This not only helps the bagel cook evenly but also adds to its iconic look. A well-shaped bagel will have a nice rise and a chewy bite, enhancing your overall experience.

Storing and Customizing Your Bagels

These Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag, where they can keep well for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply toast them straight from the freezer for a quick, delicious breakfast.

Customization is one of the best parts of making bagels at home. Whether you prefer a savory twist with everything seasoning or a simple sprinkle of sesame seeds, feel free to be creative. You can even add toppings like shredded cheese or poppy seeds directly into the dough for a unique flavor. Experimenting with flavors can transform your breakfast routine and help you find your personal favorite combination!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to kick off your bagel-making journey!

For the Bagels

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

Make sure to prepare your toppings before starting!

Instructions

Let’s get these bagels ready step by step!

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt until a dough forms. Knead the dough for a couple of minutes until it’s smooth. If it’s too sticky, add a little extra flour.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then poke a hole through the center with your finger to form the bagel shape. Gently stretch the hole to make it larger.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

Air Fry the Bagels

Brush the bagels with beaten egg and sprinkle with your desired toppings. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

After cooking, allow the bagels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them fresh or toasted with your favorite spreads!

Enjoy your delicious homemade air fryer bagels!

Pro Tips

For best results, feel free to experiment with different types of yogurt, like flavored Greek yogurt, for unique tastes!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels don't rise as expected, the likely culprit may be the freshness of your self-rising flour. Always check the expiration date before use, as old flour can lose its leavening power. If you find your dough is too dry or crumbly, this is often due to insufficient yogurt. Adjust your yogurt measurement slightly to ensure the dough remains pliable and moist, which is key in creating that dreamy chewiness.

Another common concern is achieving the perfect golden color on your bagels. If they’re browning too quickly, it might be a good idea to lower the air fryer temperature by 10-15 degrees, allowing them to cook through evenly. Conversely, if they’re not browning enough, increase the cooking time in small increments, monitoring closely to avoid burning.

Serving Suggestions

These bagels are incredibly versatile! While they are delightful on their own, you can elevate them further with delicious spreads. Cream cheese, flavored butter, and avocado can take your bagel experience to a whole new level. Add fresh toppings like sliced tomatoes or smoked salmon for a hearty breakfast or a brunch-worthy treat.

For a fun twist, consider making mini sandwiches with your bagels. Fill them with turkey, fresh greens, and hummus for a nutritious snack, or even whip up an egg salad filling. The possibilities are endless, making these bagels perfect for any time of day!

Scaling the Recipe

If you’re hosting a brunch or just want to make a bigger batch of bagels, scaling this recipe up is simple. For each additional bagel, maintain the 1:1 ratio of self-rising flour to yogurt. This means that doubling the recipe requires 2 cups of each ingredient. Just ensure that you have enough space in your air fryer for all the bagels, as they need room to cook evenly without overcrowding.

When scaling the recipe, keep an eye on cooking time. Depending on the size of your batches, you may need to adjust the air frying duration slightly, especially if cooking multiple trays at once. Always check for that golden-brown finish before removing them from the air fryer, ensuring they are cooked through and delicious!

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes! Just add 1 teaspoon of baking powder per cup of all-purpose flour to replicate self-rising flour.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store the bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

→ Can I add toppings before cooking?

Absolutely! Adding toppings before cooking will give them a nice flavor and texture.

→ What can I serve with these bagels?

These bagels are excellent with cream cheese, avocado, or smoked salmon for a tasty meal or snack.