3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels

Making fresh bagels at home might sound like a complicated task, but with this easy 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels recipe, you can whip up delicious, chewy bagels in no time. Using just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy warm bagels right from your air fryer.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to try making air fryer bagels at home. First, they are quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy mornings. Second, you can customize them with your favorite toppings. Lastly, using the air fryer results in a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior without the need for boiling.

How to Make 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder – optional for extra fluffy bagels
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 large egg – to use for the egg wash
  • Optional toppings: Everything Bagel Seasoning, Sesame Seeds, Poppy Seeds
  • For gluten-free bagels:
    • 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
    • 2 teaspoons gluten-free baking powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
    • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
    • 1 egg white whisked until frothy
    • Everything bagel seasoning – optional

Directions:

  1. In a medium-size bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder and salt.
  2. Then add in the yogurt and mix the dough using a fork, your hands, or a rubber spatula until the dough is wet but still slightly crumbly with large doughy pieces.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface and knead it into a smooth ball of dough.
  4. Separate the dough into 4 equal pieces.
  5. Roll each piece of dough into a 5-6 inch long, 3/4 inch wide log and form it into a circle. Pinch the ends of the dough together with your fingers.
  6. In a small bowl, combine the egg yolk with some water and brush the egg wash all over the top and middle of each bagel. Leave them plain or add your desired toppings.
  7. Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees F and spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray.
  8. Place the formed bagels into the air fryer in a single layer, about 2 inches apart. Close and cook for about 10 minutes until they are nice and golden and cooked through. Note: check the bagels at around 8-9 minutes to make sure they do not get too golden brown, as air fryers vary.
  9. Remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and topping them.

To Make Gluten-Free Bagels

Follow the same steps, but use the gluten-free all-purpose flour and additional baking powder listed under the ingredients for gluten-free bagels.

How to Serve 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels

These bagels are great served warm, sliced in half, and toasted. Spread on some cream cheese, butter, or your favorite jam. You can also enjoy them with avocado, smoked salmon, or any of your favorite toppings.

How to Store 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels

Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze bagels by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat one, just thaw, toast, or warm them in the air fryer.

Tips to Make 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels

  • Be gentle when kneading the dough; overworking can make the bagels tough.
  • Try different toppings like cheese, herbs, or spices to create unique flavors.
  • To ensure the bagels cook evenly, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.

Variation

You can easily change the flavor of your bagels by adding different herbs or spices directly to the dough. For example, mixing in garlic powder or adding shredded cheese can create delicious variations.

FAQs

1. Can I make these without an air fryer?
Yes! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake these bagels in a preheated oven at 375 degrees F for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

2. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the bagel dough before cooking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

3. Are these bagels healthy?
These bagels can be a healthier option compared to traditional bagels, especially if you use Greek yogurt, as it adds protein. You can also adjust the toppings to make them healthier based on your preference.