Love bagels but not the long process of boiling and baking? These air fryer bagels are the quick and easy solution you’ve been looking for. Made with just 3 main ingredients, they’re soft on the inside, golden on the outside, and perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings.
Whether you enjoy them for breakfast with cream cheese, as a sandwich for lunch, or even turned into mini pizzas, these homemade bagels are incredibly versatile—and way easier than you’d expect. Plus, there’s a gluten-free option included!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 3 main ingredients
- No yeast required
- Fluffy, golden, and satisfying
- Quick cook time – Ready in just 10 minutes in the air fryer
- Easy to customize – Add your favorite toppings or fillings
- Can be made gluten-free or egg-free
Ingredients
Basic Bagels:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free all-purpose flour)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder (optional, for extra fluffiness)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (nonfat, low-fat, or full-fat)
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
Optional Toppings:
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Sesame seeds
- Poppy seeds
- Dried onion or garlic flakes
- Asiago cheese shreds
For Gluten-Free Bagels:
- 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder (gluten-free)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 egg white, whisked until frothy
- Optional: Everything seasoning
How to Make Air Fryer Bagels
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the Greek yogurt and mix with a fork, rubber spatula, or your hands until a dough forms. The mixture should be slightly crumbly but coming together.
Step 2: Knead and Shape
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it into a smooth ball. Divide it into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 5–6-inch log, then shape each into a circle and pinch the ends together to form a bagel.
Step 3: Add Egg Wash & Toppings
Whisk the egg yolk with a splash of water to make an egg wash. Brush the tops of each bagel with the wash, then leave plain or add toppings like everything seasoning, sesame seeds, or cheese.
Step 4: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C). Lightly spray the basket with olive oil or cooking spray. Arrange the bagels in a single layer, about 2 inches apart. Air fry for 10–11 minutes, checking around 8–9 minutes to prevent over-browning. They should be golden brown and puffed.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
Let the bagels cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing—they’ll finish cooking slightly as they cool.
How to Make Gluten-Free Bagels
Follow the same steps using gluten-free flour and egg white instead of whole egg:
- Mix gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add yogurt and whisked egg white.
- Form the dough and shape into bagels.
- Follow the same cooking and cooling steps.
Tips for Success
- Plain Greek yogurt only – Flavored or regular yogurt won’t work here.
- Don’t skip the cooling step – It helps the bagels finish cooking and prevents a gummy texture.
- Baking powder = fluffier bagels – Optional but recommended.
- Customize your toppings – From savory to cheesy to sweet, make them your own!
No Air Fryer? No Problem!
Bake them in the oven instead:
Place shaped bagels on a lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes on the top rack. Let cool before serving.
Storage & Freezing
Refrigerate: Wrap bagels individually in plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Toast to reheat.
Freeze: Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic, and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 30 days. To reheat, thaw overnight or defrost in the microwave for 20 seconds, then slice and toast.
Make Ahead Option
Make the dough ahead and store it (wrapped tightly) in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready, just roll, shape, and air fry!
Serving Ideas
- Spread with cream cheese or butter
- Toast and top with mashed avocado
- Make a hearty breakfast sandwich
- Use as buns for chicken or egg salad
- Turn into mini pizza bagels!
More Healthy Air Fryer Recipes
- Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges
- Healthy Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan
- Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas
- Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
- Air Fryer Carrot Fries
Did You Make This Recipe?
If you tried these 3-ingredient air fryer bagels, I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment and star rating below—or tag me on Instagram @pinchmegoodfood so I can see your delicious creation.