There’s something truly satisfying about homemade bagels, especially when you realize you can whip them up in your air fryer with just three simple ingredients. One morning, I found myself craving a warm, chewy bagel but didn’t want the fuss of traditional baking. With a few pantry staples and my trusty air fryer, I discovered a whole new world of quick, delightful breakfasts!
These 3-ingredient air fryer bagels are light, fluffy, and versatile enough to jazz up any meal. Whether you enjoy them topped with cream cheese or as a base for an epic breakfast sandwich, you can customize them to suit any taste. Plus, if you’re gluten-free, don’t worry! I’ve included an easy option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. Say goodbye to those uninspiring fast-food breakfasts and hello to convenience and deliciousness! Let’s get started.
Why are 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels a must-try?
Simplicity: Whipping up these bagels takes minimal effort and just three ingredients, making breakfast a breeze!
Quick Cooking: In under 20 minutes, you can enjoy warm, freshly made bagels straight from your air fryer.
Customizable: Top them with your favorites or even experiment with sweet and savory flavors to keep your meals exciting.
Healthier Alternative: Lower in fat than traditional bagels, these options fit perfectly into your healthy eating plan.
Gluten-Free Option: Enjoy a delicious bagel experience without the gluten, perfect for those dietary needs.
Try these bagels today and transform your mornings into a delightful ritual!
3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and chewiness; can be swapped with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
- Baking Powder – Optional for an extra fluffy texture; not necessary, but great for an airy bite.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; remember to adjust to your taste preference.
- Plain Greek Yogurt – Serves as the primary binding agent; cottage cheese can be a good substitute for a different twist.
For the Egg Wash
- Large Egg – Used for an egg wash to achieve a beautiful golden finish; skip if you prefer an egg-free version.
With just these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to making delicious 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels that will undoubtedly become a morning favorite!
How to Make 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels
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Prep Dough: In a medium bowl, blend the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the Greek yogurt, mixing with a fork until the mixture is just combined into a crumbly dough.
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Knead Dough: Transfer the crumbly dough to a floured surface. Gently knead it until a smooth, cohesive ball forms, which will take just a few minutes.
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Shape Bagels: Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a log about 5-6 inches long and shape each log into a bagel by pinching the ends together.
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Apply Egg Wash: In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with a splash of water. Brush this mixture over the bagels, then sprinkle with your choice of toppings for extra flavor.
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Cook: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Place the bagels into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are spaced apart. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until they’re golden brown; check for doneness around 8-9 minutes.
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Cool & Serve: After cooking, let the bagels cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. They’re ready to enjoy!
Optional: For a fun twist, try adding some cheese or herbs into the dough before baking.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts, allowing you to enjoy fresh bagels even on your busiest mornings! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days in advance; just be sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy your bagels, simply shape them and proceed with the egg wash and cooking instructions. You can also shape the bagels, place them on a baking sheet, and refrigerate overnight for added convenience. Either way, rest assured they will turn out just as delicious when cooked!
3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels Variations
Feel free to make these delightful bagels your own with some tempting twists and substitutions!
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Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour for gluten-free all-purpose flour to enjoy a scrumptious bagel without the gluten. You won’t miss the traditional texture!
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Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free Greek yogurt or silken tofu instead of the yogurt for a creamy consistency. It’s surprising how delicious these options can be!
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Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder to the dough for a savory touch that elevates your bagels’ taste. A little extra zing goes a long way!
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Cheesy Delight: Incorporate shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, into the dough for a rich, cheesy version. Melty pockets of flavor will make breakfast a joy!
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Sweet Twist: For a little sweetness, mix in cinnamon and a touch of honey or maple syrup into the dough. Top with your favorite jam for a delightful morning treat.
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Herb-Infused: Add dried herbs like oregano or basil to the dough for an aromatic experience. These bagels will transport you right to a quaint Italian café!
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Fruit Surprise: Toss in some dried fruits like cranberries or blueberries to your dough for a sweet and chewy bite. A fantastic combination with cream cheese!
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Spicy Kick: Blend in a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for a fiery version that pairs perfectly with avocado or smoked salmon. Bring the heat to your breakfasts!
With these variations, every morning can be a fresh and exciting bagel experience!
Storage Tips for 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels
Room Temperature: Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and freshness.
Fridge: For extended freshness, you can refrigerate the bagels for up to a week; ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze cooled bagels individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Reheating: To reheat, simply place frozen bagels in your air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their delightful texture. Enjoy your 3 ingredient air fryer bagels as if they were just baked!
Expert Tips for 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels
- Don’t Over-Knead: Kneading too much can create dense bagels. Aim for a smooth ball without overworking the dough for the best texture.
- Check Air Fryer Settings: Air fryers vary in performance; keep an eye on your bagels starting at 8 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Flour Variations: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option, ensuring you choose one with a good binding agent.
- Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding spices or herbs directly into the dough for a unique twist on traditional 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels.
- Experiment with Toppings: Before air frying, top your bagels with seeds or cheese to create a deliciously varied breakfast experience.
What to Serve with 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels?
Enjoying your freshly made bagels can be easy and delightful with the perfect accompaniments.
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Cream Cheese: The classic pairing enhances the bagels’ flavor, creating a creamy and indulgent breakfast experience.
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Smashed Avocado: Spread on warm bagels, this brings healthy fats and a delightful creaminess that makes for a satisfying breakfast.
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Smoked Salmon: This gourmet touch adds a sophisticated twist, transforming your bagel into a heavenly brunch option.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing side that complements the bagels’ rich texture, adding sweetness and color to your meal.
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Scrambled Eggs: Pairing with fluffy eggs elevates your bagel to a hearty breakfast sandwich, perfect for a filling start to the day.
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Brewed Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage balances the meal; the perfect sip to accompany your bagel enjoyment, enhancing the comfort factor.
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Herbed Cream Cheese Spread: Mixing fresh herbs into your cream cheese adds a zesty burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the bagels’ chewy texture.
Each of these delightful options adds a new layer of flavor and satisfaction, ensuring your air fryer bagel experience is as memorable as it is delicious!
3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right flour for my bagels?
Absolutely! For classic bagels, all-purpose flour gives you the perfect structure and chewiness. If you’re opting for a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour that includes xanthan gum for binding. Look for a blend that you trust, as it can greatly affect the texture.
What’s the best way to store leftover bagels?
Very! Store your leftover 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, just make sure they’re wrapped tightly to keep them soft.
Can I freeze these bagels?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each cooled bagel individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in your air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their delightful texture!
What do I do if my bagels end up too dense?
Oh no! If your bagels are dense, it might be due to over-kneading the dough. To avoid this next time, knead just until a smooth ball forms; it should only take a few minutes. Also, make sure that you’re not using too much flour while shaping your bagels, as too much can make them heavy and dense.
Are these bagels suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Very! By using gluten-free all-purpose flour in your recipe, you can enjoy delicious, chewy bagels without gluten. Make sure to choose a gluten-free flour that has a good binding agent like xanthan gum for the best results. They won’t compromise on flavor or texture!
Can I use yogurt substitutes in this recipe?
Yes! If you’re looking for alternatives to Greek yogurt, you can use cottage cheese for a similar texture, or even dairy-free Greek yogurt if needed. Just keep in mind that the taste might vary slightly, but you’ll still end up with tasty bagels!
3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels You’ll Crave Every Morning
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, blend the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the Greek yogurt, mixing with a fork until just combined into a crumbly dough.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Gently knead it until a smooth ball forms, which will take a few minutes.
- Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a log about 5-6 inches long and shape each log into a bagel by pinching the ends together.
- Mix the egg yolk with a splash of water. Brush this mixture over the bagels, then sprinkle with toppings.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Place the bagels into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are spaced apart. Cook for about 10 minutes, checking for doneness at 8-9 minutes.
- Let the bagels cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. They’re ready to enjoy!