Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels

Name: Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour; 1 egg (for egg wash); Sesame seeds (optional); Everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Highlighted under: Busy Day Cooking

I never thought making bagels at home could be so easy until I tried this air fryer method. Using just yogurt and flour, I created the softest, most delicious bagels in no time. What I love most is the convenience of the air fryer, which gives them a perfect golden crust without the need for boiling or traditional baking. These bagels are perfect for breakfast or as a snack, and they can be customized with your favorite toppings. I can’t wait for you to try this delightful recipe!

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:07:08.540Z

When I first attempted making these bagels, I was amazed at how few ingredients were needed. By using just Greek yogurt and self-rising flour, I managed to whip up a batch in under thirty minutes. The dough came together so smoothly, and I loved how the air fryer cooked them evenly while keeping them fluffy inside.

One tip I found invaluable was allowing the bagels to sit for a few minutes before air frying. This simple step helped them rise beautifully, resulting in a delightful texture that rivals the best bakery bagels. I guarantee these will become a regular in my breakfast rotation!

Why You Will Love These Bagels
Quick and easy with only two main ingredients
Soft and fluffy texture that makes every bite enjoyable
Customizable toppings for endless flavor variations

Understanding the Ingredients

The beauty of these bagels lies in their simplicity, with just two main ingredients: Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. The Greek yogurt not only imparts moisture and flavor but also adds a slight tang that complements the bagels perfectly. It's important to use full-fat Greek yogurt to achieve the richest flavor and ideal texture. Low-fat versions may yield drier bagels, so opt for creamy, thick yogurt for the best results.

Self-rising flour is another star of the show, as it contains baking powder and salt, allowing the bagels to rise beautifully without additional leavening agents. This flour choice significantly speeds up the process, making it ideal for quick bagel-making. If you can't find self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in the right proportions. For every cup of all-purpose flour, mix in 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.

Shaping Your Bagels

Shaping the bagels is an important step that contributes to their final appearance and texture. When rolling the dough into ropes, aim for even thickness to ensure consistent cooking. If you find the dough sticky, lightly flour your hands and work surface—too much flour can lead to tougher bagels. Pinching the ends together firmly is crucial; you want a secure seal to prevent them from separating during cooking. A little practice will make this process easier and improve your technique over time.

For a unique twist, consider creating bagels with holes of varying sizes. Larger holes will yield denser centers, while smaller ones create a fluffy interior. Additionally, you can experiment with different shapes—try a mini bagel or an oval shape for fun. Remember to adjust the cooking time slightly; smaller bagels may require a little less time in the air fryer, so keep an eye on them as they cook.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels:

Ingredients

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
1 egg (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds (optional)
Everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're just a few steps away from homemade bagels!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious bagels:

Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for a couple of minutes until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, then pinch the ends together to form a bagel shape.

Prepare for Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Brush the bagels with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds or everything seasoning if desired.

Air Fry the Bagels

Place the bagels in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoy your freshly made bagels warm with your favorite spreads!

Pro Tips

For an even softer bagel, try adding a tablespoon of milk or an extra splash of yogurt to the dough.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, these bagels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them. Thaw them at room temperature, then pop them back in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to rejuvenate their texture, ensuring a warm and fluffy result—I highly recommend this method!

You might also consider making the dough ahead of time. Once you've mixed the yogurt and flour, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours. Just remember to allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and air frying. This flexibility allows you to enjoy freshly made bagels whenever the craving strikes without having to start from scratch.

Serving Suggestions

These soft bagels are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Top them with cream cheese, smoked salmon, and capers for a classic breakfast. Alternatively, spread some almond butter or avocado for a healthy snack. You can also slice them and toast them lightly for a perfect canvas for your favorite spreads or toppings.

For a festive flavor, consider adding toppings like cinnamon sugar before air frying, transforming these bagels into a delicious sweet treat. You can also experiment with fillings—just before sealing the bagel, add a spoonful of your favorite jam or a slice of cheese for a delightful surprise inside. The possibilities are truly endless!

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can! Just add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt to regular all-purpose flour to make your own self-rising flour.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store your bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I add flavors to the dough?

Absolutely! You can mix in various herbs, cheese, or spices to customize the flavor of your bagels.

→ How long do these bagels take to cook in an oven?

If you prefer to bake them, cook the bagels in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.