Quick and Delicious Air Fryer Bagels

There's something special about the smell of freshly baked bagels wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? I remember the first time I attempted to make bagels at home. It was a Saturday morning, and I thought, why not have a cozy brunch that feels like a warm hug? I’m here to share my favorite Air Fryer Bagels recipe, not just for ease but because these little gems hold a world of flavor. With a crispy exterior and soft, chewy center, they’re not only a delight but also quite an accomplishment. Let's dive into why you need to whip these up today!

What makes this recipe special

You’ll love this recipe because it takes minimal ingredients and barely any time, all thanks to the air fryer. Imagine enjoying a classic bagel without the hassle of boiling water! These bagels have a quick rise from the baking powder, supported by the rich creaminess of Greek yogurt. They could make any breakfast or brunch feel special. Plus, the variety of toppings means every batch can be an adventure. Feeling spunky? Try a "everything seasoning" blend. Or perhaps you'd like to stick to classic sesame seeds? The choices are endless!

Gather these ingredients

Let’s first round up our stars.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: This is your base. It provides the structure. Feel free to swap in whole wheat for a heartier texture or gluten-free flour if you need.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: This is the magic that will help your bagels rise beautifully, giving them the characteristic chewiness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the flavor here. It’s a little whisper that can make a big difference.
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: This isn’t just any yogurt! It adds moisture and tang. Plus, Greek yogurt is high in protein, which means these bagels pack a nutritional punch.
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional): A touch of sweetness, but if you're skipping it for low-carb reasons or preference, feel free. No judgment here!
• 1 egg (for egg wash): This helps achieve that beautiful golden color. Believe me, you don’t want to skip this step!
• Toppings (e.g., sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning): This is where you get to really express yourself. Think of toppings as the finishing touches to your culinary canvas!

Preparing Air Fryer Bagels

Ready to roll? Let’s get our hands doughy!

1. Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until well-combined.
2. Add yogurt and honey: Next, dive in with your Greek yogurt and honey. Stir until a chunky dough forms.
3. Knead that dough: Turn your dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for a few minutes until smooth. (Pro tip: If it’s sticky, sprinkle a touch more flour until you can work with it comfortably.)
4. Form your bagels: Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each into a thick ring, ensuring to poke a hole in the center. It may seem fiddly, but it’s all part of the charm!
5. Preheat your air fryer: Set it to 350°F (175°C).
6. Egg wash for the glam: Brush your formed bagels with the beaten egg. This step gives them that irresistible sheen.
7. Top it off!: Sprinkle your favorite toppings generously over the bagels.
8. Air fry to perfection: Carefully place them in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
9. Chill before devouring: Let them cool for a few minutes before you dig in. Cooking up anticipation!

Best way to enjoy it

These golden beauties are fantastic on their own, but let’s talk pairing! A spread of cream cheese and smoked salmon is a classic. Or, try smashing some avocado on top — it’s a match made in brunch heaven! Want a sweet twist? Slather on some whipped honey butter. The possibilities are as limitless as your imagination! Serve them warm and watch your friends and family go wild.

How to store and freeze

Now, if you find yourself with leftovers (though, let's be honest, they might not last long), here’s how to keep your bagels fresh. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight bag. They’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

Want to plan ahead? Freeze them! Simply wrap bagels individually in plastic wrap, then pop them into a freezer bag. When you’re ready for a bagel fix, thaw them on the counter and reheat in your air fryer for a crispy revival.

Helpful cooking tips

Let’s sprinkle in some extra advice for bagel success:

• Make sure your dough isn’t too wet; if it is, add a bit more flour during kneading.
• Don’t rush the cooling process before cutting. It allows the texture to settle and helps prevent a squished bagel.
• If you want more than two bagels, you can easily double the recipe! Just ensure your air fryer can handle the added batches.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to spice up your bagel game:

• Savory Spin: Try adding some chopped fresh herbs like dill or chives into the dough for a fresh twist.
• Cheesy Delight: Incorporate shredded cheese into the mixture for cheesy bagels. Think of it as a warm hug on a cold morning.
• Sweet Tooth: Add cinnamon and sugar to the dough for a sweet breakfast treat. Drizzle with icing after they cool for an indulgent touch.

Directions to follow

1. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add Greek yogurt and honey. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead on a floured surface until smooth.
4. Divide dough into 2 equal pieces; shape each into a bagel.
5. Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
6. Brush bagels with egg wash, sprinkle toppings.
7. Place bagels in air fryer. Cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
8. Let cool briefly before serving.

Your questions answered

• Can I use self-rising flour? Yes! If you use self-rising flour, skip the baking powder and salt.
• How long do they take to prepare? From mixing to munching, it’s about 30 minutes!
• Can I make mini-bagels? Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time; they may take a few minutes less.
• What toppings pair well? Everything from flaky sea salt to caramelized onions is fantastic!
• How do I reheat them? A quick pop back into the air fryer will have them tasting freshly baked again.

It's time to roll up those sleeves and give this delightful Air Fryer Bagel recipe a go! Whatever variations and toppings you choose, I hope these bagels bring warmth and joy to your kitchen. Don't forget to share your experiences; every bagel has a story! Happy cooking!