Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels

Name: Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1.5 cups self-rising flour; 1 large egg; 1 tbsp sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; Everything bagel seasoning; Sesame seeds; Poppy seeds; Garlic powder

Highlighted under: Busy Day Cooking

I absolutely love making Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels! The combination of creamy yogurt and simple ingredients transforms ordinary bagels into a fluffy delight. With just a few minutes of prep and cooking time, these bagels come out incredibly soft and satisfying. I often enjoy them fresh out of the air fryer, topped with cream cheese or avocado. It's a quick breakfast option that's perfect for busy mornings, and I find myself making them again and again, because they’re just that good!

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:04:01.423Z

When I first tried making bagels in the air fryer, I was pleasantly surprised by how well they turned out. The yogurt in the dough gives the bagels a light, airy texture that you wouldn’t expect from such a simple recipe. It feels like magic watching them puff up as they cook, and I love how quickly they are ready to eat.

I also experimented with toppings, and I found that a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning elevates the flavor profile immensely. I recommend letting your creativity shine by trying different toppings or even adding herbs directly into the dough!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Fluffy texture that rivals traditional bagels
Quick cooking time thanks to the air fryer
Endless flavor possibilities with toppings

Understanding the Ingredients

The primary ingredient in these Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels is plain Greek yogurt, which not only adds moisture but also contributes to a tender texture. Greek yogurt is thicker than regular yogurt and contains more protein, giving the bagels a delightful chewiness. This is why it's important to stick with the plain variety, as flavored yogurts can alter the dough's consistency and taste.

Self-rising flour is another key player in this recipe. This unique blend of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt eliminates the need for additional leavening agents. It's crucial for achieving that fluffy interior associated with bagels while keeping the dough consistent and easy to work with. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can create a substitute by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt.

Techniques for Perfect Shape and Texture

Shaping the bagels correctly is paramount for achieving that classic bagel form. When rolling the dough into balls, make sure to not simply squish it; rather, gently stretch the dough in a circular motion to create a taut surface. This technique helps the bagels rise evenly and creates a pleasing texture. Don't rush this process; spend a minute or two to ensure that each bagel is uniform.

When it comes to cooking the bagels in an air fryer, space is key. Avoid overcrowding the basket; giving each bagel room ensures that they cook evenly and develop a crisp exterior. The visual cue for doneness is a golden brown color, which can vary slightly depending on your specific air fryer model. If you have a smaller fryer, consider cooking in batches to achieve the best results.

Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1.5 cups self-rising flour
1 large egg
1 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt

Topping Options

Everything bagel seasoning
Sesame seeds
Poppy seeds
Garlic powder

Mix and match toppings based on your taste preferences!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, self-rising flour, sugar, and salt. Mix thoroughly until a dough forms, then knead gently for about 2 minutes until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then poke a hole in the center to shape it into a bagel.

Preheat and Cook

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (180°C). Place bagels in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. Cook for 12-15 minutes until they are golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Remove bagels from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Add your favorite toppings or enjoy them plain!

Enjoy your deliciously soft bagels fresh!

Pro Tips

For extra soft bagels, consider adding a bit more yogurt to keep the dough moist, but be careful not to make it too sticky.

Storage Tips

These bagels can be conveniently stored for up to three days at room temperature in an airtight container. However, for longer freshness, consider freezing them. To freeze, place the cooled bagels in a zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. They will maintain their quality for about a month in the freezer. To reheat, simply pop them in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Before freezing, you can also slice the bagels in half. This makes for a quicker reheating process, especially if you're aiming for a toasted bagel experience. Simply toast the halves in a toaster after re-heating them in the air fryer for a crispier texture.

Flavor Variations

While everything bagel seasoning is a popular topping, feel free to experiment with various flavors to keep your bagel game exciting. You can mix in ingredients like grated cheese or dried herbs into the dough for an extra kick. For a sweet twist, add a tablespoon of cinnamon or chocolate chips for a dessert-style bagel option.

Another unique approach is to incorporate cooked ingredients, like finely chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes, into the dough. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful texture to each bite. Just be cautious not to add too much moisture, which could alter the dough's integrity.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but you will need to add baking powder and salt to achieve the same rising effect.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store cooled bagels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Yes, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum to help maintain the structure.

→ What are some great topping ideas?

Besides the options listed, feel free to get creative with cheese, herbs, or even a sweet topping like cinnamon sugar.