Two Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels

Name: Two Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup self-rising flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; Sesame seeds; Everything bagel seasoning; Poppy seeds; Coarse salt

Highlighted under: Instant Quick Meals Recipes

I never thought making bagels at home could be this easy and quick. With just two simple ingredients, I can whip up a batch of air fryer bagels that are not only delicious but also require minimal effort. The beauty of this recipe is how versatile it is—I can add my favorite toppings or enjoy them plain. In about 25 minutes, I have freshly baked, warm bagels that rival any bakery's! Whether I'm having them for breakfast or a snack, they always hit the spot.

Created by

Florence Keaton

Last updated on 2026-02-16T02:13:36.129Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of two-ingredient bagels, I was skeptical. However, after trying this method, I found that the combination of Greek yogurt and self-rising flour creates a wonderfully chewy texture. The air fryer adds a perfect crispiness without the need for boiling, which traditionally makes bagels. I can experiment with various toppings like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning to keep things interesting.

Interestingly, I learned that the dough doesn’t just hold its shape well in the air fryer, but it also doesn’t require yeast, making it a great choice for those who may be intimidated by traditional yeast-based recipes. It's as simple as mixing the ingredients, shaping the dough, and air frying. I never realized homemade bagels could be this satisfying!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Only two ingredients that are usually on hand
Quick cooking time, perfect for busy mornings
Endless topping possibilities to suit any taste
Healthier option with less oil than traditional frying

Mastering the Dough

When mixing the dough, it's crucial to combine the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt thoroughly to ensure an even texture. Take your time to mix until you achieve a shaggy dough; this stage sets the foundation for a bagel that is both chewy and fluffy. If the dough feels too sticky, dust in a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as too much flour can lead to dense bagels.

Kneading the dough is essential for developing gluten, giving your bagels the desired structure and chewiness. Aim for a smooth and elastic dough, which should take about 1-2 minutes. If you notice small lumps remain, it’s okay—just ensure there are no dry flour patches. Over-kneading can also make the dough tough, so keep it gentle and keep an eye on the texture.

If you're in a hurry, you can use pre-made pizza dough as a substitute for the self-rising flour and yogurt combo. Just roll it out into bagel shapes, but be aware that this will alter the chewy texture slightly. However, it can still yield a satisfying alternative when you're pressed for time.

Cooking to Perfection

Preheating the air fryer is an important step that should not be skipped. Setting it to 330°F (165°C) ensures the bagels cook evenly and develop that perfect golden brown crust. While it may only take a few minutes to preheat, this short wait significantly impacts the final texture—crisp on the outside and fluffy inside.

During the air frying process, flipping the bagels halfway through cooking allows both sides to achieve a nice golden color and even crispness. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes; if they start to brown too quickly, you can lower the temperature slightly. Each air fryer can behave differently, so adjust based on the visual cues you see.

Sprinkling toppings in the last few minutes of cooking is a game-changer for flavor. Consider lightly pressing the toppings into the dough before air frying to help them adhere better. Be adventurous with your toppings; you can mix seasonings into the dough or try using grated cheese for a delicious twist—just pay attention to the cooking time as cheese may melt faster.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients and get ready to make something delicious!

Bagel Ingredients

1 cup self-rising flour
1 cup Greek yogurt

Toppings (optional)

Sesame seeds
Everything bagel seasoning
Poppy seeds
Coarse salt

Once you've gathered everything, you'll be ready to start making your bagels!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your bagels!

Mix the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine self-rising flour and Greek yogurt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently for about 1-2 minutes until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and shape it into a circle, pinching the ends together.

Preheat Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 330°F (165°C).

Air Fry the Bagels

Place the shaped bagels in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden brown.

Add Toppings

If desired, sprinkle with your chosen toppings during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor.

Serve

Remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade bagels!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, try adding a bit of garlic powder or onion powder to the dough. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the bagels for best results.

Serving Suggestions

These air fryer bagels are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. For breakfast, try slicing them in half and toasting with cream cheese and smoked salmon for a classic New York-style treat. Alternatively, slather them with peanut butter and banana for a nutritious snack or top them with avocado and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a trendy twist.

If you're hosting a brunch, consider making a variety of bagels and adding a spread section. Prepare toppings like herbed cream cheese, hummus, or even sweet options like fruit preserves. This not only elevates your bagels but also makes for an interactive eating experience where guests can customize their own creations.

To store any leftover bagels, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They'll last for about 2-3 days at room temperature or can be frozen for up to a month. Just pop them in the toaster or air fryer for a quick refresh before serving.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your bagels turn out denser than expected, double-check that your self-rising flour is fresh and not past its expiration date. Using expired flour can affect the leavening properties, resulting in heavier bagels. Additionally, too much flour added during the mixing or kneading step can also lead to a denser outcome.

In the event that your bagels are undercooked after the suggested time, simply return them to the air fryer for a few additional minutes. Monitor closely to avoid overcooking; they should reach a nice gold color and a firm crust. If you're unsure, a quick check with a toothpick can help determine doneness.

If you're experimenting with different toppings and find they don’t stick well, brush the bagels lightly with water or an egg wash before applying toppings. This small step increases adhesion, ensuring your delightful toppings stay right where they belong, enhancing every bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour?

Yes, but you need to add baking powder and salt to mimic self-rising flour.

→ How can I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour that has a similar texture to self-rising flour.

→ What toppings work best?

Some great options include sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or a sprinkle of coarse salt for added flavor.