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 Greek yogurt; 1 cup self-rising flour; 1 egg (for egg wash); Toppings of choice (such as everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels because they are so quick and easy to prepare. The combination of yogurt and self-rising flour creates a light, fluffy texture that's hard to resist. We enjoy them fresh out of the air fryer, topped with cream cheese or a drizzle of honey. This recipe has become a favorite in our house, especially for weekend breakfasts or as a quick snack anytime. The best part is that they take only a few minutes to make!

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:40:15.327Z

When I first came across the idea of making bagels with yogurt and flour, I was intrigued by the simplicity of it. After experimenting, I found that using Greek yogurt not only makes the dough incredibly soft but also gives the bagels a delightful tang. They turn out perfectly golden and airy when cooked in the air fryer, which cuts down on the baking time significantly.

I've tried various toppings, but I always return to the classic combination of everything bagel seasoning and a smear of cream cheese. It elevates the dish, creating a delicious contrast with the soft bagel. Give them a try; you might just find your new breakfast obsession!

        Why You'll Love These Bagels
        Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Deliciously soft and fluffy texture
Perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The magic of these Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels lies primarily in the combination of Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. Greek yogurt not only adds moisture but also imparts a tangy flavor that complements the dough. It's important to choose a thick Greek yogurt for the best texture; low-fat varieties may yield a denser bagel and affect the fluffiness we aim for. Ensure your self-rising flour is fresh for optimal rise during cooking, as older flour may not perform as well.

This recipe is versatile when it comes to toppings. While everything bagel seasoning and sesame seeds are time-tested favorites, consider experimenting with other flavors. For a sweeter option, try cinnamon sugar or a light sprinkle of everything seasoning mixed with a touch of parmesan. Remember, the type of topping you choose can add depth to the overall flavor and can transform these bagels from savory to sweet—or vice versa.

Mastering the Technique

When forming the bagels, take care to ensure the center hole is adequately sized. If the hole is too small, it may close up during cooking, leaving you with more of a roll than a bagel. A diameter of about 1-2 inches is ideal for ensuring a proper bagel shape. Kneading should be done gently to avoid overworking the dough, which can lead to tough bagels; smoothness is the goal.

Preheating the air fryer is crucial for developing that golden-brown exterior. If your air fryer heats unevenly, consider flipping the bagels halfway through cooking to achieve a uniform browning. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes; they can go from perfect to overcooked quickly, turning from golden to dark brown. A visual cue is the puffy, slightly crisp edges that signal they’re ready to be enjoyed.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make these delightful bagels:

Ingredients

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cup self-rising flour
1 egg (for egg wash)
Toppings of choice (such as everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds)

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your perfect yogurt bagels:

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. Mix until a dough begins to form, then knead it gently with your hands until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then poke a hole through the center, shaping it into a bagel.

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Lightly brush each bagel with beaten egg and sprinkle with your chosen toppings.

Cook the Bagels

Place the bagels in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Air fry for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown.

Let the bagels cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add spices like garlic powder or onion powder directly into the dough before shaping the bagels.

Storage and Reheating Tips

For optimal freshness, store any leftover bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll generally keep well for up to three days. If you’d like to preserve them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cooled bagels in a zip-top bag with as much air removed as possible. They can last up to three months in the freezer without losing texture or flavor.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen bagel, remove it from the bag and allow it to thaw at room temperature. You can reheat them in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 minutes or until warmed through, which helps to regain that freshly baked quality. Alternatively, a toaster works well for a quick snack, giving you that crave-worthy crust.

Creative Serving Suggestions

These bagels make for an excellent base for breakfast sandwiches. Add some cooked bacon, a fried egg, and a slice of cheese for a satisfying morning meal. Alternatively, spread on some avocado and top with a sprinkle of salt and red pepper flakes for a trendy twist. They’re equally delightful as a snack on their own, simply with a bit of cream cheese or a smear of flavored spreads.

If you're having a brunch gathering, consider serving these bagels alongside a selection of dips. Pair them with homemade hummus, fresh fruit spreads, or even a warm cheese dip. The soft and slightly chewy texture of the bagels makes them a wonderful companion to various flavors and textures, enhancing your overall spread and impressing your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

While regular yogurt can work, Greek yogurt gives a better texture and flavor.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I add other ingredients to the dough?

Yes! You can mix in herbs, cheese, or even sweet ingredients like cinnamon for variations.

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

You can make your own by mixing all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt: 1 cup flour, 1.5 tsp baking powder, and 0.5 tsp salt.