Yogurt Bagel Recipe Air Fryer

Highlighted under: Everyday Collection

I love making bagels at home, and this Yogurt Bagel Recipe in the air fryer has become my go-to. It's incredibly easy and requires just two main ingredients: Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. The air fryer gives them a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and chewy. In only 15 minutes, I can whip up fresh bagels for breakfast or a snack at any time. Trust me, once you try making bagels this way, you won't want to go back to store-bought!

Created by

Loretta Winslow

Last updated on 2026-03-05T05:13:54.028Z

From the moment I tried my first homemade bagel, I was hooked! I experimented with various recipes and finally landed on this simple Yogurt Bagel Recipe. The use of Greek yogurt not only adds a delightful tang but also keeps the bagels soft. I recommend using plain Greek yogurt for the best results.

One tip that truly elevated my bagel experience was preheating the air fryer. This small detail ensures the bagels cook evenly and get that gorgeous golden-brown color. I also love adding toppings like everything seasoning or sesame seeds for an extra crunch!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy process that anyone can master
  • Healthier than traditional bagels with yogurt-based dough
  • Customizable with various toppings to suit your taste

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to the success of these yogurt bagels lies in the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Using whole milk plain Greek yogurt not only adds protein but also contributes to the bagels' moisture and tenderness. The self-rising flour is crucial, as it already contains baking powder and salt, allowing the bagels to rise nicely without additional leavening agents. If you can't find self-rising flour, you can easily make your own by mixing all-purpose flour with baking powder and a pinch of salt.

Selecting appropriate toppings can elevate your bagels from basic to extraordinary. Sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and crunch, while poppy seeds provide a lovely textural contrast. For a more complex flavor, consider using everything seasoning, which combines multiple seasonings like garlic, onion, and salt. Depending on your preference, feel free to create flavor profiles that suit your taste buds. Remember to apply toppings before air frying to ensure they adhere well.

Shaping and Cooking Tips

When shaping the dough into bagels, aim for a uniform size to ensure even cooking. The classic bagel shape is formed by rolling a ball of dough and puncturing it with your finger to create a hole, then gently stretching the hole to about one to two inches in diameter. This technique not only gives them the traditional shape but also helps achieve the desired chewy texture throughout. If the dough feels sticky when manipulating, dust your hands with flour to make the process easier.

Preheating the air fryer is crucial for optimal cooking. This not only ensures the bagels start cooking immediately but also helps achieve a perfect golden brown exterior in just 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, especially the first time you make this recipe, as airflow can vary by brand. If you notice areas are browning unevenly, you can rotate the bagels halfway through to promote even cooking.

Ingredients

Yogurt Bagel Ingredients

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning (optional)

Mix all of your ingredients in a bowl until a dough forms.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then poke a hole in the center to form the bagel shape.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Air Fry the Bagels

Place the bagels in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with your choice of toppings. Cook for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Once done, let the bagels cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with cream cheese, jam, or your favorite spread.

Enjoy your homemade bagels as a snack or breakfast option!

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Pro Tips

  • For the best results, ensure your yogurt is at room temperature before mixing. You can also experiment with adding herbs or spices to the dough for added flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to make these bagels ahead of time, let them cool completely before storing. They can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To enjoy them later, simply pop them in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to warm and crisp them up once again. Alternatively, these bagels freeze wonderfully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

Thawing is straightforward; simply leave the bagels at room temperature for about an hour before reheating. If you're in a hurry, you can microwave them on low power for about 20-30 seconds. However, the air fryer method will help restore their crispy texture much better, keeping them delightful to eat even days after making.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with the base recipe by adding flavor variations directly into the dough. For a savory twist, consider mixing in finely chopped herbs like chives or dill. If you're in the mood for something sweeter, add a spoonful of honey or maple syrup to the dough along with cinnamon for a delicious breakfast treat. You can also fold in ingredients like shredded cheese or diced jalapeños for extra bursts of flavor.

Topping variations are endless, too! You can try mixing and matching toppings based on your mood. For an Italian-inspired bagel, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs. If you want a breakfast bagel, consider topping with everything seasoning or even a sweet cinnamon-sugar blend before air frying. These personalizations not only make the bagels unique but also cater to a variety of taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-fat Greek yogurt?

Yes, non-fat Greek yogurt can be used, but it may slightly alter the texture.

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

You can make your own by mixing all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt in the proper ratio.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for about a week.

→ Can I freeze the bagels?

Yes, once the bagels are completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. Thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the air fryer.

Yogurt Bagel Recipe Air Fryer

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Loretta Winslow

Recipe Type: Everyday Collection

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 bagels

What You'll Need

Yogurt Bagel Ingredients

  1. 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  2. 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
  3. 1 egg (for egg wash)
  4. Toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

Step 02

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then poke a hole in the center to form the bagel shape.

Step 03

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Step 04

Place the bagels in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with your choice of toppings. Cook for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 05

Once done, let the bagels cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with cream cheese, jam, or your favorite spread.

Extra Tips

  1. For the best results, ensure your yogurt is at room temperature before mixing. You can also experiment with adding herbs or spices to the dough for added flavor.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Total Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Protein: 6g