Toasty Bagels: Air Fryer Style

You can definitely toast a bagel in an air fryer, and it might even be better than using a toaster! The circulating hot air in an air fryer means you get an even toast without burnt edges. It's also quicker than using an oven and there's less mess and easier cleanup.

To toast a bagel in an air fryer, slice the bagel in half and place the halves into the air fryer basket with the cut side facing up. You can brush the bagel with butter or spray with olive oil before toasting for added crispiness and flavour. Set the air fryer to around 350-380°F (175-195°C) for 3-4 minutes, depending on how dark you like your toast.

Air fryer temperature and time settings for toasting bagels

Toasting bagels in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to achieve the perfect golden and crispy bagel with a soft, warm interior. Here are the steps to follow, along with some tips for achieving the best results:

Temperature and Time Settings:

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). The preheating step is recommended for the best results.
• Air fry your bagel halves at this temperature for 3-4 minutes per side. The total cooking time may vary depending on your desired level of doneness and the model of your air fryer.
• For a lighter crisp, aim for 2-3 minutes, and for a darker crisp, go for the full 3-4 minutes.
• If you prefer your bagels extra toasted, you can add an additional minute or two to the cooking time.

Positioning the Bagels:

• Start by slicing your bagel in half with a steady hand to ensure even halves.
• Place the bagel halves into the air fryer basket or tray with the cut side facing up.
• Ensure that the bagels have some space around them to allow for proper air circulation.
• Whether you're using an oven-style or basket-style air fryer, positioning the bagel halves cut-side up is crucial for even toasting.

Checking for Even Toasting and Adjusting Time:

• Once the timer goes off, open the air fryer and inspect your bagels. They should be lightly toasted and emit a tempting aroma.
• If you feel they need a little more time, you can always add an extra minute or two. Just remember that it's easier to add time than to undo a burnt bagel!

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bagels:

• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This ensures proper air circulation and prevents soggy or uneven results.
• For fresh bagels that are a bit moist, consider a 1-minute pre-toast at a lower temperature (300°F/150°C) to remove excess moisture for a crisper finish.
• Experiment with infused oils or compound butters, such as garlic-infused oil or rosemary butter, for an extra layer of flavor and crispness.
• Before toasting, sprinkle your bagel with seasonings like everything-bagel seasoning, chili flakes, shredded cheese, or cinnamon and sugar for a sweet twist.

How to prepare bagels for the air fryer

Step 1: Slicing the Bagel

First, take a whole bagel and use a good bread knife to slice it evenly in half. Ensure you have a steady hand so that each half is even—no one wants a lopsided bagel!

Step 2: Optional: Buttering or Oiling

For an added layer of crispiness and flavour, lightly brush your bagel halves with some melted butter or spray them with olive oil before air-frying. Not only does this elevate the taste, but it also gives the bagel a rich, golden hue.

Step 3: Setting the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to around 350-380°F (175-190°C). The time and temperature may vary depending on your air fryer model and personal preference, but around 3-4 minutes per side should do the trick.

Step 4: Positioning the Bagel

Place your bagel halves in the air fryer basket or tray with the cut side facing up. Ensure they have some space around them to allow for proper air circulation. It doesn't matter if you're using an oven-style or basket-style air fryer; the important thing is to position the halves correctly for even toasting.

Step 5: Checking for Even Toasting

Once the timer goes off, open the fryer and carefully inspect your bagels. They should be lightly toasted and emit a tempting aroma. If you prefer them darker, feel free to add an extra minute or two, but remember that it's easier to add time than to undo a burnt bagel!

Step 6: Toppings

The final step is to add your favourite toppings. Whether it's cream cheese, butter and honey, or something more adventurous like marinara sauce, the crispy exterior of an air-fried bagel will hold up well and ensure no sogginess, even with juicy toppings.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bagels:

• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer to prevent soggy results.
• If using fresh bagels, consider a 1-minute pre-toast at a lower temperature to remove excess moisture.
• Infuse flavour with oils, compound butters, or seasonings before toasting.

Air fryer vs toaster

Air fryers and toasters are both countertop kitchen appliances, but they differ in design and functionality. Here's a detailed comparison between the two to help you decide which one suits your needs better:

Air Fryer

Air fryers are compact appliances that use hot air circulation to cook food. They are known for their convenience and versatility, offering a healthier alternative to deep frying. Here are some key points about air fryers:

• Pros: Air fryers are excellent for achieving even browning and crispiness without using large amounts of oil. They are faster than traditional ovens and are perfect for cooking frozen foods, reheating leftovers, and preparing quick meals. Air fryers are also easy to clean, with most baskets being dishwasher-safe.
• Cons: One of the limitations of air fryers is their capacity. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook in batches. Additionally, air fryers can dry out certain foods, especially bread, if not monitored closely.

Toaster

Toasters are simple and classic appliances for browning and toasting bread products. They are convenient for making quick breakfasts and snacks. Here are the pros and cons of using a toaster:

• Pros: Toasters are designed to brown bread products evenly on both sides using direct, radiant heat. They are fast and convenient, and ideal for toasting bagels, open-faced sandwiches, and bread slices. Toasters also allow you to monitor the cooking process through their glass doors.
• Cons: Toasters may not provide consistent results, sometimes leading to uneven browning or burnt edges. They are primarily meant for toasting bread and may not offer the same versatility as air fryers.

Both appliances have their advantages and disadvantages. If you're looking for a quick and convenient way to toast bread products and don't require a lot of versatility, a toaster might be the better option. On the other hand, if you want a more versatile appliance for cooking a wider range of foods and don't mind monitoring the cooking process closely, an air fryer could be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Air fryer vs oven

Air fryers and ovens are both used to cook and crisp up a range of foods. However, there are some key differences between the two appliances.

Size

Air fryers are typically countertop appliances that can cook one dish at a time, while ovens are full-sized and can handle multiple dishes or larger portions.

Functionality

Air fryers circulate heated air to cook food, resulting in a crispy exterior. They are ideal for foods like French fries, chicken tenders, and other fried favourites. Ovens, on the other hand, use still air or heating elements to cook food and are better suited for baking delicate items like cookies and cakes.

Heating

Air fryers heat food from the top down, while ovens use heating elements on the top and bottom of the cooking cavity. This top-down method in air fryers results in more concentrated heat, leading to faster cooking times.

Fan Placement and Speed

Air fryers have large fans located on top of the appliance, directly below the heating element. In contrast, ovens have their fans at the back or side. The fans in air fryers are also larger and faster, circulating hot air more efficiently and optimising the cooking environment for crispy results.

Accessories

Air fryers come with various perforated accessories like baskets, trays, and racks, which allow for even cooking and enhance the crispiness of the food. Ovens, on the other hand, usually don't come with special accessories, although some manufacturers sell crisper trays separately.

Cleaning

Air fryers need to be cleaned after each use, but most of their parts are dishwasher-safe. Ovens, on the other hand, don't require cleaning every time, but the accessories used do need to be washed.

Batch Cooking

While air fryers are excellent for small batches and single servings, they are limited in the amount of food they can cook at once. Ovens, especially convection ovens, are better suited for batch cooking and preparing multiple dishes simultaneously.

What to serve with toasted bagels

So you've decided to toast your bagel in an air fryer—great choice! But what to serve with it? Here are some ideas to elevate your bagel game and make it a more satisfying meal:

Classic Spreads and Toppings

First, let's talk about the classics. You can't go wrong with a generous smear of cream cheese, a dollop of strawberry jam, or the timeless combination of butter and honey. These simple toppings never fail to delight and are perfect for those who enjoy their bagels plain.

Savory Delights

If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, try spreading some chunky guacamole on your toasted bagel. The creamy avocado and zesty lime notes create a harmonious blend that pairs beautifully with the warmth and texture of the bagel. For a savory delight, top your bagel with slices of ripe garden-fresh tomatoes. If you're a fan of onion or sesame bagels, crown it with a fried egg for an extra indulgent bite.

Sweet Treats

For those with a sweet tooth, there are endless options to satisfy your cravings. Layer your bagel with a generous swipe of jam, embracing the fruity magic of strawberry, raspberry, or apricot. If you're feeling extra indulgent, pair a blueberry bagel with cream cheese for a delightful contrast of rich creaminess and subtle tart notes. Alternatively, spread some Nutella on your bagel and top it with fresh banana slices for a sweet and gooey treat.

Hearty Breakfast Bagels

Looking for a more substantial meal? Transform your bagel into a breakfast sandwich by adding air-fried bacon, scrambled eggs, or ham. You can also make a hearty breakfast bagel with scrambled eggs and bacon or sausage on the side. If you're an onion bagel lover, pair it with some cream cheese for a match made in heaven.

Lunch and Dinner Options

Bagels aren't just for breakfast! They make a great base for lunch and dinner options too. Try making a deli-style turkey sandwich using the bagel as bread, or fill it with your favorite deli meats, cheeses, and toppings. If you're craving something warm and comforting, top your bagel with shredded cheese and pop it back into the air fryer for a quick melt. Or, channel your inner pizzaiolo by decking out your bagel with beloved pizza toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, or colorful peppers.

Final Thoughts

Remember, the beauty of the bagel lies in its versatility. Whether you're in the mood for something sweet or savory, there are endless possibilities to customize your toasted creation. Don't be afraid to experiment with different toppings and combinations to find your perfect pairing!

Frequently asked questions