3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast & Easy: Prep in about 8 minutes, cook in around 12–15 minutes

• 3‑Ingredient Magic: Greek yogurt and flour base; just add baking powder if using all-purpose flour

• No Yeast or Boiling: Skip the long proofing times and hot water bath—straight to the air fryer

• Customizable: Top with everything seasoning, sesame, poppy, cheese, cinnamon sugar… the choices are endless

• 

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (nonfat, low‑fat, or whole‑milk)

• 1 cup self‑rising flour

  • OR: 1 cup all‑purpose flour + 2 tsp baking powder + ¼ tsp salt

• (Optional) 1 large egg for brushing on top (helps with browning and seed adhesion)

• Optional toppings: everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onion/garlic, cheese, cinnamon‑sugar

directions

1. Combine yogurt and flour mixture in a bowl until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.

2. Knead lightly on a floured surface for about 30 seconds (do not overknead).

3. Divide into 4 equal portions. Shape each into a ball, poke a hole through the center, and gently stretch into a bagel shape.

4. Let rest (optional but recommended) for 10–15 minutes to activate rising agents.

5. Preheat air fryer to 330–350°F. Lightly spray basket or use parchment/silicone liner.

6. Brush tops with beaten egg (or alternate like milk/olive oil for egg‑free). Sprinkle toppings.

7. Air‑fry for 10–14 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. You may flip halfway or extend time if needed.

8. Cool bagels 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

• Makes 4 bagels (about 1 bagel per serving)

• Prep time: ~8–10 minutes

• Cook time: 10–15 minutes

• Total time: ~20–25 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free self-rising flour or use gluten-free all-purpose flour + baking powder

• Egg‑free: Skip egg wash and brush with olive oil or milk alternatives

• Whole wheat: Use white whole wheat flour—results may be denser

• Flavor twists: Stir in cinnamon, raisins, cheese, chopped jalapeños, or top with herbs/cheese

storage/reheating

• Fridge: Store cooled bagels in an airtight bag or container for up to 3 days

• Freeze: Wrap individually; freeze up to 30 days. Thaw overnight or microwave, then toast for best texture

• Reheat: Refresh in air fryer for 2–3 minutes or toast slices directly

FAQs

1. Can I make more than 4 bagels?

Yes! Just double or triple the ingredients. You may need extra space or multiple air-fryer batches. The dough and cooked bagels freeze well.

2. Why is my dough too sticky or dry?

Add flour in small increments if too sticky. If it feels dry, a bit more yogurt will help—dough should be soft but manageable.

3. Can I bake these instead of air-frying?

Absolutely. Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until golden.

4. Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek?

Greek yogurt is thicker and gives better structure. Regular yogurt will likely be too wet.

5. Are these truly 3-ingredient bagels?

Yes, though many add optional ingredients: baking powder (if not using self-rising), egg wash, salt. The core is yogurt and flour.

6. How do I know they’re cooked inside?

They should be golden and firm. If still soft inside after the cooking time, add 2–3 minutes. Let them cool—they firm up as they rest.

7. Can I reuse or prepare dough in advance?

Yes—you can refrigerate shaped or unshaped dough for up to 2–3 days before cooking.

8. What toppings work best?

Common toppings include everything bagel seasoning, sesame or poppy seeds, cheese, and cinnamon sugar. Customize to your liking.

9. Can I make mini or larger bagels?

Definitely. Adjust the size and cooking time: mini bagels need less time, large ones need more. Just keep an eye on doneness.

10. How can I make them softer or chewier?

Using yogurt helps softness, but avoid overbaking. Try using whole milk Greek yogurt and a slightly lower heat. Brushing with butter after cooking can also help.

Conclusion

These 3-ingredient air fryer bagels are a game-changer: easy to make, endlessly customizable, and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re craving classic everything bagels, cheesy breakfast buns, or gluten-free snacks, this recipe delivers. Enjoy the warm, homemade goodness—straight from your air fryer!