Toasting Bagels In An Air Fryer: Is It Possible?

If you're a bagel lover, you know that achieving the perfect toast is an art. While the traditional oven and toaster are reliable options, the air fryer has emerged as a game-changer for toasting bagels. But does it live up to the hype? The short answer is yes, you absolutely can toast a bagel in an air fryer, and the results may even surpass your expectations.

The air fryer offers several advantages over conventional methods. It delivers even toasting, ensuring every bite is golden and crisp without the dreaded burnt edges. Say goodbye to uneven browning and embrace the consistent crunch of a perfectly toasted bagel. Moreover, the air fryer is faster than an oven, so you can go from frozen bagel to toasted delight in no time. And let's not forget the convenience of a quick cleanup with less mess and dishwasher-safe air fryer baskets.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The air fryer's capacity may require toasting in batches if you're feeding a crowd. Over-toasting can lead to dryness, so monitor closely to avoid turning your bagel into a crouton. And while the air fryer excels at toasting, it might not entirely replace your beloved toaster or oven for certain tasks.

Toasting a bagel in an air fryer is simple. Start by slicing your bagel in half, then optionally brush with melted butter or spray with olive oil for added crispness and flavour. Preheat your air fryer to around 350-380°F (175-195°C) and place the bagel halves cut-side up in the basket, allowing space for air circulation. Air fry for 3-4 minutes, adjusting the time based on your desired level of crispness and the specifics of your air fryer model.

Now, you're ready to enjoy your perfectly toasted bagel! Top it with cream cheese, butter, honey, or your favourite spread. You can even turn it into a breakfast sandwich with bacon, egg, and cheese. So, go ahead and give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!

Air fryer temperature and timing

Toasting bagels in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to achieve the perfect golden brown and crispy bagel. The ideal temperature setting for toasting bagels in an air fryer is between 350°F and 400°F (175°C to 200°C). The timing will depend on your desired level of crispiness and the model of your air fryer.

For a lightly toasted bagel with a subtle crunch, set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and toast the bagel halves for 2.5 to 3 minutes. If you prefer a darker and crispier bagel, increase the temperature to 380°F (193°C) and toast for 3 to 4 minutes. It's important to keep an eye on your bagels during the toasting process, as the difference between a perfectly toasted bagel and a burnt one can be just a matter of seconds.

When toasting multiple bagels, make sure they are arranged in a single layer, with enough space between them to allow for even air circulation. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to toast them in batches.

Additionally, if you're toasting frozen bagels, it's best to preheat the air fryer for more even and faster cooking. There's no need to thaw the bagels before placing them in the air fryer. Simply increase the cooking time by a minute or two.

Lastly, while it's not necessary to flip the bagels during the toasting process, doing so halfway through can promote more even browning.

Bagel toppings

There are endless possibilities when it comes to bagel toppings and fillings. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Sweet Options:

• Fresh fruit and berries
• Honey
• Maple syrup
• Jam
• Peanut butter
• Almond or walnut cream cheese
• Cinnamon raisin with cream cheese
• Cinnamon and sugar
• Lemon ricotta cream mousse
• Lime mascarpone cream mousse
• Chocolate chip cream cheese

Savoury Options:

• Lox (smoked salmon)
• Cream cheese
• Capers
• Red onion
• Tomato
• Bacon
• Egg
• Avocado
• Ham
• Cucumber
• Deli meats
• Greek yoghurt
• Hummus
• Pesto
• Halloumi
• Salami
• Chicken
• Chives
• Dill
• Scallions
• Jalapeno cream cheese
• Sundried tomato cream cheese
• Blueberry cream cheese
• Ricotta
• Walnuts
• Pesto
• Mozzarella
• Lettuce
• Scrambled eggs
• Fried eggs
• Tofu
• Broccoli sprinkles
• Grated zucchini
• Matchstick carrots
• Sliced cucumbers
• Sardines
• Shredded cheese
• Guacamole
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Melted butter
• Honey
• Jelly
• Pizza toppings
• Spinach
• Mushrooms
• Peppers
• Pepperoni
• Smoked Gouda
• Provolone
• Hard salami
• Mustard
• Jalapeno jelly
• Mascarpone
• Basil
• Spicy garlic mayo
• Sprouts
• Anchovy butter
• Gentleman's relish
• Veggie cream cheese
• Thousand island dressing
• Cheddar
• Montreal grill seasoning
• Nature's seasoning
• Montreal grill seasoning
• Nature's seasoning
• Everything bagel seasoning
• Chili flakes
• Shredded cheese
• Cinnamon and sugar
• Honey
• Jelly
• Pizza toppings
• Spinach
• Mushrooms
• Peppers
• Pepperoni
• Smoked Gouda
• Provolone
• Hard salami
• Mustard
• Jalapeno jelly
• Mascarpone
• Basil
• Spicy garlic mayo
• Sprouts
• Anchovy butter
• Gentleman's relish
• Veggie cream cheese
• Thousand island dressing
• Cheddar
• Montreal grill seasoning
• Nature's seasoning

Air fryer vs toaster

Air fryers and toaster ovens are both countertop kitchen appliances that act as mini ovens. They come in different sizes and price points, with simple models that have just time and temperature settings, and fancier options with cooking presets and keep-warm features. However, there are key differences between the two that make each better suited for specific tasks.

Air fryers cook food by circulating hot air, making them good for crisping and browning foods with minimal added oil. They are ideal for frozen fries, meat, fish, veggies, and chicken drumsticks. They are also great for reheating leftovers, as they can make them crispy again.

On the other hand, toaster ovens cook food using concentrated radiant heat, which is good for cooking things that need to be laid flat. Toaster ovens are well-suited for making toast, toasting bagels, and open-faced sandwich melts. They are also convenient for cooking things that need to be laid flat and spaced evenly, such as cookie dough or puff pastry.

In terms of size, air fryers usually have a basket drawer, while toaster ovens typically have a glass door. Toaster ovens are generally bigger than air fryers, making them better for cooking for larger groups.

When deciding between an air fryer or a toaster oven, consider what types of food you will be cooking and how much counter space you have available. If speed and crispy foods are important to you, an air fryer might be the better choice. If you are looking for a mini oven that can heat things up without warming your whole house, a toaster oven is a better option.

Additionally, it is worth noting that some appliances combine the functionality of both an air fryer and a toaster oven, offering the best of both worlds.

Air fryer bagel pizzas

Ingredients:

• Bagels (plain, whole wheat, garlic, cheese, or everything-flavored)
• Olive oil
• Oregano
• Basil
• Pizza sauce (or spaghetti sauce)
• Cheese (shredded mozzarella, shredded Italian cheese blend, fresh sliced mozzarella, or sliced provolone)
• Toppings of your choice (pepperoni, cooked and crumbled sausages, peppers, onions, olives, spinach, etc.)

Instructions:

• Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (some recipes suggest 360°F).
• Brush the bagel halves with olive oil and then sprinkle with garlic powder and oregano.
• Place the bagels in the air fryer and cook for 3 minutes.
• Once toasted, top the bagel halves with pizza sauce and your choice of cheese and toppings.
• Return the bagel pizzas to the air fryer and cook for 4-6 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
• Remove the bagel pizzas and allow to cool for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Storage and Reheating:

If you have any leftover bagel pizzas, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer for 1 minute at 370°F, or in the microwave for 45 seconds to 1 minute.

Storing leftover bagels

If you're feeling creative, you can also turn your leftover bagels into something new. Try making bagel crisps, pizza bagels, a breakfast frittata, or even breadcrumbs. You can also use them in a breakfast casserole, as croutons, or as a base for tuna melts or grilled cheese sandwiches. If you're craving something sweet, bagels can be transformed into a bread pudding or French toast. So many options!

Frequently asked questions