Yogurt Bagel Recipe Air Fryer

Name: Yogurt Bagel Recipe Air Fryer
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups self-rising flour; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 egg (for egg wash); Optional toppings (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning)

Highlighted under: Easy Food Fix

I’ve always been a fan of bagels, but making them traditionally seemed daunting. However, when I discovered the yogurt bagel method, everything changed! This quick and easy air fryer version makes bagels that are perfectly chewy on the outside and soft on the inside. Plus, the yogurt adds a lightness that truly elevates the flavor. In just 20 minutes, I can have freshly baked bagels ready to enjoy with my favorite toppings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought!

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:10:10.232Z

When I first tried making yogurt bagels, I was amazed by how simple the process was. The combination of self-rising flour and yogurt creates a dough that requires minimal effort and no rising time. I enjoyed the flexibility of adding different toppings, from everything seasoning to sesame seeds, making each batch unique and flavorful.

Using the air fryer not only cuts down on cooking time but also gives the bagels a delightful crispness without the need for boiling. It was an absolute game-changer in my kitchen routine, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings
Quick preparation and cooking time
A healthier alternative to traditional bagels
Perfect for breakfast or a quick snack

Understanding Ingredients

The foundation of these yogurt bagels is self-rising flour, which combines flour with baking powder and salt. This unique blend eliminates the need for additional leavening agents, streamlining the process. The Greek yogurt not only provides moisture but also contributes to the bagels’ chewy texture. Using full-fat yogurt will yield the richest flavor, but low-fat versions work too if you’re looking to cut calories.

You can customize the flavor of your bagels by experimenting with different types of Greek yogurt. Try using a flavored yogurt, like honey or vanilla, to give your bagels a subtle sweetness. Remember that the yogurt’s tanginess will balance out the carbs in the dough, so don’t shy away from using slightly tart varieties for a more complex flavor profile.

Perfecting the Bagel Shape

When shaping the bagels, the key is to handle the dough gently to maintain its airiness. After rolling each piece into a ball, the hole should be created by using your thumb to poke through the center. To ensure uniform cooking, aim for a 1-2 inch hole in the dough; this will help the bagels expand evenly in the air fryer without becoming too puffy.

If you find that your bagels are too thick and don’t cook through, it’s a good idea to flatten them slightly before air frying. A subtler thickness of about 1 inch will ensure they cook evenly, achieving the perfect balance of chewy crust and soft inside.

Topping Options and Serving Suggestions

The toppings you choose can elevate your bagel experience immensely. Traditional toppings like sesame seeds and everything bagel seasoning add delightful crunch and flavor. For a twist, consider adding cheese or herbs to the egg wash to create an enticing crust. If you’re feeling adventurous, thinly sliced garlic or onion sprinkled before air frying can infuse a savory aroma that fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table.

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a couple of minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore their crispy exterior. Pair your bagels with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or avocado for a fulfilling meal that delights at breakfast or snack time.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for delicious yogurt bagels.

For the Bagels

2 cups self-rising flour
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional toppings (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning)

Once you've got everything ready, you’ll be on your way to yummy homemade bagels!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your yogurt bagels in the air fryer.

Prepare the Dough

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

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center and gently stretch it to form a bagel shape.

Preheat the Air Fryer

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

Brush with Egg Wash

Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the bagels. Sprinkle your desired toppings on top.

Air Fry the Bagels

Place the bagels in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 10 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Let the bagels cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, mix in some herbs or spices into the dough before shaping the bagels. You can also experiment with different types of yogurt for varied tastes.

Troubleshooting Your Bagels

If your bagels come out dense, it might be due to overworking the dough. The dough should be mixed just until it forms a cohesive ball—too much mixing toughens it. Additionally, ensure you're measuring your flour accurately; too much flour can lead to a dry bagel. Remember, flour can settle in the bag—scoop and level your cup for the best results.

Conversely, if you find your bagels too sticky to handle, lightly dust your hands and the work surface with flour while shaping. This will help you maintain a soft dough consistency without kneading in excess flour, preserving the desired texture.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

If you want to prepare these bagels in advance, consider shaping them and freezing before cooking. Place the raw bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply air fry them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

For a breakfast prep option, try slicing and toasting them after they cool down completely. This way, you can have quick toasted bagels that are great for busy mornings. Just remember to wrap them well to keep them fresh, and they’ll be ready to toast at a moment’s notice!

Scaling the Recipe

This yogurt bagel recipe can be easily scaled up if you’re planning to feed a crowd. Simply multiply the ingredient quantities by the number of servings you need. For example, doubling the recipe only requires a simple increase in the self-rising flour and yogurt while keeping the 1:1 ratio. Just ensure your air fryer can accommodate the increased batch size without overcrowding.

If you’re scaling down, know that the dough can be halved without sacrificing the outcome. Just keep a close eye on the cooking time and adjust as necessary since smaller bagels may bake faster. Enjoy experimenting with different sizes, shapes, and toppings while keeping the ratios consistent!

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, but you'll need to add baking powder and salt to create a similar texture.

→ How can I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I make these bagels without yogurt?

Yogurt is key to the texture, but you can substitute it with sour cream if necessary.

→ What toppings can I use?

Feel free to get creative! Try cheese, herbs, or onion flakes—whatever you like!