Air-Fryer Bagel Bites: A Quick, Easy Treat

Bagel bites are a popular snack, especially for kids, and can be cooked in a variety of ways. But is using an air fryer the best method? Cooking bagel bites in an air fryer is not only possible but also one of the fastest ways to make them, taking only 4 to 10 minutes. This method also ensures a crispy outside and soft, chewy inside, with perfectly melted cheese on top. You can even make your own bagel bites from scratch and cook them in the air fryer.

How long to cook bagel bites in an air fryer

If you're looking for a quick and easy snack, cooking bagel bites in an air fryer is a great option. The air fryer gets them crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, with perfectly melted cheese on top. They're ready in less than 15 minutes, and you'll never want to cook them any other way again!

Here's how to do it:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

First, preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F. This step is important as it ensures even cooking and gives you the best crispy and melty texture.

Step 2: Place the Bagel Bites in the Air Fryer

Next, place your frozen bagel bites in the air fryer. Make sure to leave a little space around each one and arrange them in a single layer. This helps ensure even cooking and browning.

Step 3: Cook for 7 to 9 Minutes

Now, cook your bagel bites for 7 to 9 minutes. Every air fryer is a little different, so it's a good idea to check on them at the 7-minute mark. They're done when the cheese is melted and the bites are golden brown.

Step 4: Let Them Cool

Finally, let your bagel bites cool for a couple of minutes before serving. This will help you avoid burning your mouth and will give the cheese a chance to set slightly.

And that's it! You now have perfectly cooked bagel bites that are crispy, chewy, and loaded with flavour. Enjoy!

How to make bagel bites in an air fryer from scratch

Ingredients:

• Gluten-free flour
• Yogurt (dairy-filled or dairy-free)
• Everything but the Bagel Seasoning (optional)
• Mini bagels
• Pizza sauce
• Mozzarella cheese
• Toppings of your choice (e.g. pepperoni, vegetables)

Instructions:

First, decide whether you want to make these bagel bites in an air fryer or in an oven. If using an oven, preheat it to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, mix together your gluten-free flour and yogurt until a dough forms. Grease your hands with a little oil to prevent the dough from sticking, then use a spoon to scoop out a small amount of dough. Roll it in your hands to form a ball, then coat it in the everything but the bagel seasoning (if using). Repeat this process until all the dough has been rolled into balls.

Place your bagel bites into the air fryer basket, leaving a little space around each one. Set the air fryer to 350°F and cook for 10-12 minutes. If using an oven, bake for 16-18 minutes.

Once done, let the bagel bites cool, then enjoy! For the full bagel experience, try spreading them with cream cheese.

Tips:

• If you want to add extra toppings, add them during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
• To get the bagel bites out of the air fryer, use silicone tongs or handle them very carefully with your hands. Do not use metal tongs as these can damage the air fryer.
• You can use parchment paper or foil in the air fryer to make clean-up easier.
• Preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking and the perfect crispy and melty texture.

Alternative Method:

If you want to make pizza bagel bites, start by arranging halved mini bagels in a layer on a sheet pan. Top each bagel with a teaspoon of pizza sauce and a tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese.

Add any desired toppings, but be careful not to overload them. Unlike a regular pizza, bagel bites have gravity working against them, and toppings can slide off as the cheese melts.

Once assembled, cook the bagel bites under the broiler in your oven or toaster oven for 5-6 minutes, or until the cheese is browned and bubbly.

Freezing Instructions:

If you want to freeze your bagel bites, it's best to partially bake (parbake) them first. Pop them under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, just until the cheese melts but doesn't brown. Let them cool, then freeze on a sheet pan for 20-30 minutes before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To cook from frozen, preheat your broiler and arrange the bagel bites on a sheet pan. Broil for 6-8 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and browning.

Can I add extra toppings to the bagel bites?

Yes, you can add extra toppings to Bagel Bites. In fact, some people recommend it! If you're using frozen Bagel Bites, you can add extra toppings during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This will ensure that your toppings cook through and your cheese is melted.

If you're making your own Bagel Bites from scratch, you can add toppings of your choice. For example, you could add a slice of olive, finely minced onion or peppers, or anything else that sounds tasty. You could even make your Bagel Bites vegan by swapping out the cheese for a vegan alternative.

If you're making pizza Bagel Bites, you can add extra pizza toppings, such as diced pepperoni, or extra cheese. You could also add other toppings like tuna salad, chicken parmesan, or mozzarella, pesto and tomato.

If you're looking for something sweet, you could try Nutella, peanut butter, marshmallow fluff, or banana. Or, for a healthier option, you could top your Bagel Bites with Greek yogurt and fruit.

Can I use parchment paper or foil in the air fryer?

Yes, you can use parchment paper or foil in an air fryer. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you do it safely.

First, make sure you are using food-grade parchment paper. Parchment paper is safe to use in an air fryer as long as you follow a few precautions. Cut the paper to fit the size of the bottom of your air fryer basket, or slightly smaller, so that air can circulate freely. Perforating the paper can further assist with air circulation and allow grease to drain away from food. It is also important to check the maximum temperature restriction of the parchment paper, as printed on the box, to ensure it is suitable for the temperature you are cooking at. If you are preheating your air fryer, add the parchment paper afterward, when it can be weighed down by food, to prevent it from flying about inside the basket.

Lining your air fryer with parchment paper can make cleanup easier, especially for foods that might stick to the basket, like chicken wings. However, some people have found that using parchment paper or foil can block too much airflow, so it may be better to avoid it for certain foods like chicken wings. If you are using parchment paper, make sure it stays down and doesn't fly up, or it will burn.

As an alternative to parchment paper or foil, you can use a silicone liner or silicone basket in your air fryer, which will make cleanup easier without affecting airflow.

How many bagel bites can I make at a time?

The number of Bagel Bites you can cook at once will depend on the size of your air fryer. It's recommended to cook the bites in a single layer, spaced out so they don't touch. One source states that they were able to fit 9 bites in a 6 qt air fryer. Another source says that you can fit up to 2 boxes of Bagel Bites in one batch, depending on the size of your air fryer.

It's important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the number of Bagel Bites you cook at once. Most sources recommend cooking Bagel Bites in an air fryer for 7-9 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, but some sources suggest cooking for as little as 5 minutes or as long as 10-12 minutes. It's important to keep an eye on your Bagel Bites to ensure they don't burn.

Frequently asked questions