Air Fryer Bagel Bites: A Quick, Easy Treat?

Bagel Bites are a popular snack, especially for kids, but cooking them in the microwave can result in a disappointing texture and temperature. Cooking them in the oven takes far too long, so what's the solution? An air fryer! Air fryers provide a quick and easy way to cook Bagel Bites, with a cooking time of under 10 minutes, and sometimes as little as 5 minutes. The bites are ready when the cheese is melted and the bagels are crispy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside.

How to make bagel bites in the air fryer

Ingredients:

• 1 box of frozen bagel bites (any flavor you like)
• Optional: extra cheese, such as shredded mozzarella, and/or toppings like pepperoni, bacon, peppers, or onions
• Non-stick cooking spray (if needed)

Utensils:

• Air fryer
• Tongs

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 350-360°F. You may want to prepare the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray.
• Place the frozen bagel bites in the air fryer in a single layer, leaving a little space around each one.
• Air fry for 4-9 minutes at 350-360°F. Check on the bagel bites after 3-4 minutes to make sure they're not burning, and continue cooking until they are golden brown.
• Carefully remove the bagel bites from the air fryer using tongs and serve.

Tips:

• You can add extra toppings to the bagel bites during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
• If you want a crispier texture, cook the bagel bites at 400°F. For a softer texture, similar to that of microwaved bagel bites, cook at 340°F.
• If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the bagel bites back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes.

How long to cook bagel bites in an air fryer

Air fryer Bagel Bites are a quick and easy snack or meal that can be made in less than 15 minutes. Here is a step-by-step guide on how long to cook Bagel Bites in an air fryer:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

First, preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating your air fryer is essential as it ensures even cooking and the perfect crispy and melty texture for your Bagel Bites. It also helps reduce the overall cooking time.

Step 2: Prepare the Bagel Bites

Place the frozen Bagel Bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space around each one. Avoid letting them touch or overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may be able to fit around 9 to 12 Bagel Bites in one batch.

Step 3: Air Fry

Now it's time to air fry your Bagel Bites! Cook them at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 7 to 9 minutes. However, it's important to note that every air fryer is different, so it's recommended to check on your Bagel Bites after 5 to 7 minutes to ensure they don't overcook.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

Your Bagel Bites are ready when the cheese is melted and the bites are golden brown. If they need more time, continue cooking in 1-minute intervals until they reach the desired doneness.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once your Bagel Bites are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy the crispy and chewy texture, along with the delicious melted cheese!

Tips and Variations:

• You can add extra toppings to your Bagel Bites during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Try minced onions, peppers, or slices of olive for a flavour boost.
• For an extra cheesy kick, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each Bagel Bite before air frying.
• Serve your Bagel Bites with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, dried oregano, or garlic powder for an extra punch of flavour.
• You can also dip your Bagel Bites in marinara sauce for an even more indulgent treat.
• Always keep an eye on your Bagel Bites while they're cooking, as different air fryers may have varying cooking times.

Enjoy your air-fried Bagel Bites, and feel free to experiment with different flavours and toppings to find your perfect combination!

How to make homemade pizza bagel bites in the air fryer

Ingredients:

• Mini bagels
• Pasta sauce (pesto or alfredo sauce also work great!)
• Shredded cheese (mozzarella is recommended, but cheddar or a Mexican blend also works)
• Toppings of your choice (pepperoni, veggies, pineapple, etc.)

Utensils:

• Air fryer
• Tongs (silicone recommended)
• Knife

Instructions:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F.
• Cut your mini bagels in half.
• Spread a spoonful of pasta sauce on each half.
• Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the sauce.
• Add your desired toppings.
• Place the bagel halves in the air fryer in a single layer, leaving some space around each one.
• Air fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bagels are crispy.
• Carefully remove the bagel bites from the air fryer using tongs and let them cool for a minute or two before serving.

Tips:

• You can use parchment paper or foil in the air fryer for easier cleanup.
• If you want to add more toppings, add them during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking so they have a chance to melt or warm through.
• Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer to ensure even cooking.
• Keep an eye on your bagel bites to make sure they don't burn—every air fryer is a little different!

The best way to take bagel bites out of the air fryer

When it comes to removing bagel bites from your air fryer, it's important to use the right tools to ensure safety and avoid damaging your appliance. Here are some detailed instructions on the best way to take bagel bites out of your air fryer:

• Use Silicone Tongs: The recommended tool for removing bagel bites from an air fryer is a pair of tongs. They allow you to safely lift and transfer the hot bagel bites from the air fryer basket to a serving plate or container. Silicone tongs are heat-resistant and won't scratch the coating on your air fryer, making them the ideal choice.
• Avoid Metal Tongs: While tongs are generally recommended, it's important to avoid using metal tongs. Metal tongs can scrape and damage the coating on the bottom of your air fryer, affecting its non-stick properties and appearance.
• Be Careful with Your Hands: If you don't have silicone tongs, you can carefully use your hands to remove the bagel bites. However, this method should be a last resort as the bites will be hot, and you risk burning your fingers. Always exercise caution if using your hands, and consider using oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves for protection.
• Preparation for Serving: Once you've removed the bagel bites from the air fryer, you can serve them as-is or with your favorite dips and sauces. Some popular dip options include Alabama white BBQ sauce, marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or hot sauce. You can also offer ketchup for picky eaters or younger children.
• Cooling and Storage: Before serving, allow the bagel bites to cool down for a few minutes. This will ensure that they are comfortable to eat and reduce the risk of burning your mouth. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating Leftovers: To reheat leftover bagel bites, simply place them back into the air fryer and heat at 350°F (177°C) for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through. This will help you achieve that signature crispy texture and melted cheese goodness all over again!

Can you 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. Firstly, ensure that you are using food-grade parchment paper and not any other type of paper product. Check the maximum temperature restriction on the box and do not exceed this in your air fryer. Cut the parchment paper to fit the bottom of your air fryer basket, and perforate and trim the paper to aid in air circulation and grease drainage. If you are preheating your air fryer, add the parchment paper afterward, placing it under the food to weigh it down, so it doesn't fly around and come into contact with the heating element.

Using parchment paper or foil can make cleanup easier, but it may also affect airflow, so it's important to be mindful of this. Some people choose to use a silicone liner or silicone basket in their air fryer instead, which can provide the benefits of easier cleanup without impeding airflow.

Now, onto bagel bites! You can absolutely cook bagel bites in your air fryer, and it's a quick and easy way to get them crispy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside. Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F, and place the frozen bagel bites inside in a single layer with a little space around each one. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes, or until golden brown. You can also make homemade pizza bagels in the air fryer by preheating to 400 degrees F, topping a regular or mini bagel with your desired toppings, and cooking for about 2 to 3 minutes.

Frequently asked questions