These 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels are super simple and fun to make! You only need flour, yogurt, and baking powder to whip up these tasty treats.
They’re quick to bake and perfect for breakfast or a snack. Plus, I love how I can customize them with toppings! Just grab your favorite spreads and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Self-Rising Flour: This flour is a blend of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. If you don’t have it, you can make your own by mixing 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour with 2 ¼ teaspoons baking powder and ½ teaspoon salt.
Greek Yogurt: I recommend using plain full-fat or 2% Greek yogurt for the best texture and taste. You can substitute it with plain regular yogurt or even cottage cheese if you prefer a different flavor and texture.
Baking Powder: This is used for both the boiling process and to give a slight lift to the bagels. If you want a lighter bagel, you can skip the baking powder in the boiling water, but I’d suggest keeping it in the dough for best results.
Egg Wash: The egg wash gives a nice sheen to your bagels. You can substitute it with milk or a non-dairy milk alternative if you prefer a vegan option.
Toppings: Everything bagel seasoning is my go-to, but feel free to mix it up! Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even a sprinkle of sea salt work great if you’re in a pinch.
How Do I Properly Knead Dough?
Kneading is key to developing the right texture for your bagels. Here’s how to do it simply:
- Turn your dough onto a floured surface.
- With clean hands, fold the dough over itself and push down with the heel of your hand.
- Turn the dough a quarter turn and repeat for about 5 minutes. The dough should feel smooth and slightly elastic.
If it sticks to your hands, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. Don’t knead too hard; you’re not trying to make a workout, just a lovely bagel dough!
How to Make 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or 2%)
- 1 tbsp baking powder (for boiling water and slight extra lift)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Everything bagel seasoning or your choice of toppings (e.g., sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, onion flakes, sea salt)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and an additional 12 minutes for air frying, making a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for a delicious bagel any time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt. Mix with a spoon or your hands until a dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour, and if it’s too dry, add a little more yogurt until it reaches the right consistency.
2. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth and slightly elastic texture. If it sticks to your hands, just add a little more flour—keep it light!
3. Shape the Bagels:
Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your finger. Gently stretch the dough around the hole to form a bagel shape. Make sure the hole isn’t too small, as it can close up while cooking!
4. Boil the Bagels:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the baking powder. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Now, carefully add each bagel and boil for about 1 minute on each side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them, letting any excess water drain off. Place the bagels on a clean towel to keep dry.
5. Preheat and Prepare for Air Frying:
While the bagels are boiling, preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C). Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the tops of each bagel. This will give them a lovely golden color. Then, sprinkle your chosen toppings on top!
6. Air Fry the Bagels:
Carefully place the bagels in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd them, as they need space to cook evenly. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
7. Enjoy Your Bagels!
Once done, let the bagels cool slightly before digging in. They’re perfect enjoyed warm and fresh out of the air fryer. Enjoy your homemade air fryer bagels!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of Self-Rising Flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour! If you do, make sure to also add baking powder and a pinch of salt to mimic the effects of self-rising flour—specifically, about 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour, 2 ¼ teaspoons baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate herbs, cheese, or even a bit of onion powder into the dough for extra flavor. Just be mindful not to add too much moisture that could affect the dough’s consistency.
How Should I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. To enjoy again, thaw at room temperature and crisp them up in the air fryer for a few minutes.
What Can I Use Instead of Egg for the Wash?
If you prefer to avoid egg, you can use milk or a plant-based milk alternative. Brush the tops with a little bit for a nice color, or skip this step altogether if you wish!
