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 plain yogurt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp honey (optional); Sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (for topping)

Highlighted under: Quick Comfort Plates

I've recently fallen in love with making bagels at home, especially using my air fryer. The joy of transforming simple ingredients like yogurt and flour into soft, chewy bagels is truly unmatched. I never thought that making homemade bagels could be so easy and quick, yet here we are! These Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels have a delightful texture and can easily be flavored with your favorite toppings, making them perfect for breakfast or a snack any time of the day.

Created by

Sienna Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:19:13.809Z

When I first tried air frying bagels, I was skeptical about whether they would turn out as delicious as oven-baked ones. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how soft and fluffy they became, while still achieving that slight chewiness we love in bagels. The key is to ensure your dough is well-kneaded and to watch the cooking time closely.

One tip I learned through trial and error was to preheat the air fryer; it truly makes a difference in how they rise and cook. These bagels are not just quick to make; they also bring a sense of satisfaction, knowing I created a tasty breakfast from scratch!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
The ease of preparation makes them a go-to recipe for busy mornings.
They are incredibly soft with a perfect chewy texture.
You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings or seasonings.

Mastering Dough Texture

Achieving the perfect dough texture is crucial for soft, chewy bagels. When mixing the yogurt and flour, aim for a dough that is slightly sticky but manageable. If it feels too wet, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it comes together nicely. This balance ensures that your bagels won't be dry or cakey after cooking.

Kneading the dough for 2-3 minutes is key to developing the gluten, which gives bagels their characteristic chewiness. Avoid over-kneading, as this can lead to a tough texture. You want the dough to be smooth and elastic—if it springs back when you poke it, you're on the right track!

Perfect Air Fryer Cooking

The air fryer is a game changer for cooking bagels, providing a crispy exterior without the need for boiling. Preheating the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) is essential, as it helps ensure an even cooking process. If you skip preheating, your bagels may end up unevenly cooked, with some parts soft and others overdone. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of cooking; they should turn a lovely golden brown.

To enhance flavor and texture, brushing the tops of the bagels with a bit of additional yogurt before adding toppings creates a beautiful glaze while helping the seeds adhere better. This simple step not only adds visual appeal but also contributes to a delightful crunch.

Ingredients

For these delightful bagels, you'll need the following ingredients:

Bagel Ingredients

1 cup plain yogurt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp honey (optional)
Sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (for topping)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix the yogurt, flour, baking powder, and salt until a dough forms. If you're using honey, add it in at this stage for a touch of sweetness.

Knead the Dough

Lightly flour your work surface and knead the dough for about 2-3 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. Divide the dough into four equal pieces.

Shape the Bagels

Roll each piece of dough into a ball, then use your finger to poke a hole through the center, shaping it like a bagel. Make sure to keep the hole wide as it will shrink during cooking.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the bagels cook evenly.

Cook the Bagels

Place the bagels in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. If desired, brush the tops with a little yogurt and sprinkle with sesame seeds or seasoning. Cook for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Once cooked, let the bagels cool for a few minutes before enjoying them warm, toasted, or with your favorite spreads.

Enjoy your freshly made bagels!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different toppings like cheese, herbs, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist.

Customizing Your Bagels

These bagels provide a wonderful blank canvas for your flavor preferences. Consider incorporating your favorite herbs or spices directly into the dough for a savory twist—chopped fresh chives or garlic powder work beautifully. For a sweeter option, adding cinnamon or a bit of vanilla extract can elevate the flavors and make them perfect for breakfast or snacks.

Another enjoyable variation is experimenting with the toppings. From classic sesame seeds to everything bagel seasoning, the choices are endless. You can also try adding grated cheese on top before air frying for a cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth treat. Each variation brings a different texture and flavor profile, allowing you to personalize your bagels.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, these bagels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cooled bagels in a freezer-safe bag, and they should keep well for up to a month. To reheat, simply pop them in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-5 minutes until warmed through, restoring their chewy texture.

If they start to dry out slightly after freezing, a quick mist of water before reheating can help revive them. This technique adds a bit of moisture back into the bagels, ensuring you enjoy them just like they were fresh out of the air fryer!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt will work well! Just keep in mind it may yield a slightly denser bagel.

→ How can I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I add other flavors to the dough?

Absolutely! Consider adding herbs, spices, or even cheese to the dough for added flavor.

→ What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake these bagels in a regular oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes.