3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels – Easy, Fluffy & Foolproof

If you want fresh, warm bread without yeast, long rise times, or complicated steps, these 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels will quickly become your go-to recipe. They bake up golden on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and you can make them in under 20 minutes from start to finish. Even better, you only need simple pantry staples.

Because these 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels use Greek yogurt instead of yeast, they come together fast. You mix, shape, air fry, and enjoy. Whether you need a quick breakfast, an easy lunch base, or a satisfying snack, this recipe delivers every time.

A few years ago, I started experimenting with quick dough recipes during a busy season of life. Mornings felt rushed, and I wanted something homemade without the stress. The first time I made these bagels, I couldn't believe how simple they were. My family devoured them straight out of the air fryer, still warm, with cream cheese melting into every bite. Since then, they've become a weekly staple. They save time, reduce grocery costs, and most importantly, bring everyone back to the table.

Quick and fluffy homemade bagels made with Greek yogurt and cooked in the air fryer in under 20 minutes.

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Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing Bowl
• measuring cups and spoons

Method

 

1. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
2. Add Greek yogurt and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 30-60 seconds until smooth.
4. Divide dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each into a log and pinch ends to form bagels.
5. Brush tops with egg wash and add desired toppings.
6. Air fry at 350°F for 10-11 minutes until golden brown. Cool 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Calories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 220mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2IUCalcium: 8mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Do not overmix the dough. Let bagels cool 5-10 minutes before slicing. For gluten-free, use gluten-free all-purpose flour and add egg white to dough.

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Why You'll Love These 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels

Quick, Simple, and Yeast-Free

Traditional bagels require yeast, boiling, and long resting times. However, these 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels skip all of that. Instead of yeast, Greek yogurt and baking powder create lift and structure. As a result, you get fluffy bagels without waiting hours.

Because you use the air fryer, they cook faster than oven-baked versions. In fact, they turn golden in about 10 minutes. That means you can mix the dough and eat warm bagels in less time than it takes to drive to the store.

Even better, this dough is beginner-friendly. You don't need special equipment. You simply mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and yogurt, then knead briefly. After that, you shape and cook. It's that straightforward.

Customizable for Every Diet

Another reason people love these 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels is flexibility. You can:

• Use all-purpose flour
• Swap in gluten-free all-purpose flour
• Make them egg-free
• Use nonfat, low-fat, or full-fat Greek yogurt

Additionally, you can add toppings to match your mood. Everything seasoning adds bold flavor. Sesame seeds give classic texture. Poppy seeds create a subtle crunch. Or, keep them plain and toast them later.

Because the base is neutral, these bagels work for sweet or savory meals. That makes them perfect for meal prep and busy weeks.

Ingredients for 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels

Core Ingredients

To make classic 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels, you need:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Although baking powder is technically optional, it improves texture. Therefore, I recommend using it for fluffier results.

Greek yogurt must be thick and plain. Regular yogurt contains too much moisture and will make the dough sticky. Nonfat, low-fat, or full-fat all work well.

Gluten-Free Option

If you need gluten-free 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels, simply substitute:

• 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons gluten-free baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whisked egg white (mixed into dough)

The egg white helps bind gluten-free flour. As a result, the dough holds together better and cooks evenly.

How to Make 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
2. Add Greek yogurt and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead 30-60 seconds.
4. Divide into 4 equal pieces.
5. Roll each into a 5-6 inch log and pinch ends together.
6. Brush tops with egg wash.
7. Add desired toppings.
8. Air fry at 350°F for 10-11 minutes.

Because air fryers vary, check at 8 minutes. If they brown too quickly, reduce time slightly.

After cooking, let the bagels cool 5-10 minutes. This step matters. They continue cooking internally as they rest, which prevents a gummy center.

Tips for Perfect Texture

First, avoid overmixing. Overworking the dough makes the bagels dense. Knead just until smooth.

Second, flour your surface generously. Since yogurt adds moisture, light flouring prevents sticking.

Finally, allow cooling time. Cutting too soon traps steam and can make the inside seem undercooked.

Topping Ideas and Serving Suggestions

Delicious Topping Ideas

You can keep your 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels simple, or dress them up. Try:

• Everything bagel seasoning
• Sesame seeds
• Poppy seeds
• Dried onion
• Dried garlic
• Shredded asiago cheese

If you prefer sweet flavors, skip savory toppings and add cinnamon after baking. Then toast and spread with cream cheese or nut butter.

Easy Meal Ideas

These 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels work any time of day.

For breakfast, toast and add scrambled eggs and avocado.
For lunch, use them as sandwich bread with sliced chicken and lettuce.
For dinner, slice and top with marinara and cheese for mini pizzas.
For snacks, cut into pieces and toast into bagel chips.

Because they freeze well, you can double the recipe. Wrap individually and freeze up to 30 days. When ready, thaw overnight or microwave briefly before toasting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my bagels gummy inside?

Most likely, you overmixed the dough or sliced them too soon. Let them cool at least 5 minutes before cutting.

Can I bake them in the oven?

Yes. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes on the top rack until golden brown.

Can I use regular yogurt?

No. Regular yogurt contains too much moisture and makes the dough sticky.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes. Use a thick dairy-free Greek-style yogurt alternative.

Can I turn this dough into pizza crust?

Absolutely. Flatten the dough into a round, pre-bake slightly, then add toppings and cook again until crisp.

Conclusion

These 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels prove that homemade bread does not need to be complicated. Because they use simple ingredients and cook quickly, they fit into busy schedules with ease. Whether you make the classic version or the gluten-free option, you'll enjoy soft, fluffy bagels in minutes.

Once you try these 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels, you may never go back to store-bought. They save time, taste incredible, and adapt to any meal. Make a batch today and enjoy fresh bagels whenever you want.