Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels

Ingredient Insights

The foundation of these bagels lies in the Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. The yogurt not only adds moisture but also enhances the tangy flavor profile. When you mix it with self-rising flour, you've eliminated the need for yeast and rising time. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute regular yogurt, but the texture will be slightly less creamy. The self-rising flour contains baking powder and salt, which are crucial for achieving that perfect rise without any additional leavening agents.

Using an egg wash before air frying not only creates a beautiful golden-brown crust but also helps toppings adhere better. This is especially important if you opt for toppings like sesame seeds or everything seasoning. Experimenting with different toppings, such as poppy seeds or dried herbs, can lead to exciting flavor variations, allowing you to personalize your bagels to suit your palate.

Perfecting the Shape

When shaping the bagels, it's essential to ensure the hole in the middle is large enough to maintain its shape during cooking. As the bagels rise in the air fryer, the hole can close up if not adequately sized, leading to more of a bun versus a traditional bagel shape. Aim for a hole that is about 2 inches in diameter. This simple attention to detail will ensure you achieve that authentic bagel look and texture.

If you find the dough to be too sticky while shaping, dust your hands with a little flour to make the process easier. However, avoid adding too much flour at this stage, as it can lead to drier bagels. A slight stickiness can help you achieve that chewy texture we're after. If you're concerned about over-mixing, rest assured that just a gentle hand in combining is all you need; lumps are okay here.

Serving Suggestions

These Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. One of my favorite ways to enjoy them is with a generous spread of cream cheese, paired with smoked salmon and capers for a delicious brunch option. However, they also shine when topped with avocado and poached eggs for a hearty breakfast that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

If you're making these bagels ahead of time, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last a day or two, but for longer freshness, I recommend freezing them. To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster or air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy. This way, you can enjoy a freshly baked feel without starting from scratch every time.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're considering meal prep, the dough itself can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to cover it tightly to avoid drying out. When you're ready, shape and air-fry the bagels as usual. This can save you precious time during busy mornings while still delivering fresh bagels to your table.

For those who enjoy variety, consider pre-portioning the bagel dough and shaping them into singles. Freeze the shaped bagels on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. You can cook them directly from frozen—simply add an additional 2–3 minutes to your air frying time. This cuts out even more prep time and lets you enjoy bagels whenever the craving strikes.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your bagels aren't browning as expected, it could be due to moisture in the dough or insufficient egg wash. Make sure to dry your yogurt if it's particularly watery before mixing. Applying a thicker layer of the egg wash can help achieve that desired golden color. If they aren't cooking through, try lowering the temperature slightly to allow for even cooking without burning.

Should you encounter a dense texture in your bagels, it's likely due to overworking the dough. Keep mixing to a minimum, and if you're feeling unsure, let it rest for a few minutes before shaping. This will allow the gluten to relax, resulting in a tender, chewy bagel that you’ll be proud to serve.