Air Fryer Bagel: Perfect Timing For A Crispy Treat

Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance, and for good reason—they can cook a variety of foods, from crispy fries to succulent chicken wings. But can you cook bagels in an air fryer? The answer is yes, and the results are surprisingly good! In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to achieve the perfect air-fried bagel, whether you're cooking from scratch or simply toasting a store-bought bagel. We'll also offer tips on customising your bagel and provide storage instructions. So, get your aprons on and let's dive into the world of air-fried bagels!

Cooking a Bagel in an Air Fryer

How to toast a bagel in an air fryer

Toasting a bagel in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to achieve a warm, crispy, and golden bagel.

Step 1:

First, you'll want to slice your bagel in half. It's important to ensure that both halves are even to avoid a lopsided bagel. Place the bagel halves into the air fryer basket with the cut side facing up.

Step 2:

For an added layer of crispiness and flavor, you can lightly brush the bagel halves with melted butter or olive oil before toasting. This step is optional but can enhance the taste and give a rich, golden color to your bagel.

Step 3:

Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature. The ideal temperature range for toasting bagels is between 350°F and 380°F (175°C-190°C). The exact temperature and timing may vary depending on your preferred level of crispness and the model of your air fryer.

Step 4:

Place the basket in the air fryer and toast your bagel for 3-4 minutes. If you prefer a lighter toast, 2-3 minutes should be sufficient. For a darker and crispier bagel, you can increase the time to 4-6 minutes. Keep a close eye on your bagel to avoid over-toasting or burning.

Step 5:

Once your bagel has reached the desired level of toastiness, remove it from the air fryer and top it with your favorite spread or toppings. Some popular options include cream cheese, butter, honey, jam, or even deli meats and cheeses for a heartier breakfast sandwich.

And that's it! You now have a perfectly toasted bagel, made efficiently and conveniently in your air fryer. Enjoy your warm and crispy treat!

How to make bagel bites in an air fryer

Homemade bagel bites are a quick, easy, and delicious snack that can be made in an air fryer. They are a healthier and cheaper alternative to frozen bagel bites and can be made in under 15 minutes. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make bagel bites in an air fryer:

Ingredients:

• Mini bagels
• Pizza sauce or marinara sauce
• Cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, feta, or any other kind)
• Desired toppings (pepperoni, spinach, mushrooms, ham, pineapple, etc.)

Instructions:

• Preheat your air fryer to 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to preheat the air fryer for even cooking and to achieve the desired crispy texture.
• Halve the mini bagels.
• Spread sauce on each half of the bagel.
• Add shredded cheese and your desired toppings.
• Place the bagels into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space around each one. Avoid overcrowding the basket.
• Air fry the bagels for 4-9 minutes, depending on your air fryer and desired level of doneness. Check the bagels after 4 minutes or 7 minutes and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and the bagels are golden brown.
• Remove the bagel bites from the air fryer using silicone tongs or very carefully with your hands.
• Allow the bagel bites to cool for a couple of minutes before serving.

You can also make bagel bites from scratch by making your own bagel dough. This usually involves using self-rising flour and yogurt or cottage cheese to form the dough, shaping it into bagels, and then following the same steps as above.

How to make pizza bagels in an air fryer

Pizza bagels are a quick and easy meal to make in an air fryer, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a snack. The toppings are endless, so they are great if you are cooking for picky eaters. Here is a recipe for making pizza bagels in an air fryer:

Ingredients

• Bagels %(gluten-free if required)
• Pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Cheese (mostly mozzarella, but also cheddar) or another variety)
• Toppings of your choice (e.g. pepperoni, sausage, basil, olives, red pepper flakes, vegetables)

Method

• Cut the bagels in half.
• Using a small spoon, spread pizza sauce on each bagel half.
• Top the bagels with cheese and your desired toppings.
• Place the bagels in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
• Air fry at 350-360 degrees Fahrenheit for 4-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bagel edges are crispy.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips

• You can also make pizza bagel bites in the air fryer by using mini bagels.
• If you are making the bagels ahead of time, you can store them in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
• When reheating, you can place the bagels back in the air fryer, in the oven, or in the microwave.

How to make a bagel sandwich in an air fryer

To make a bagel sandwich in an air fryer, you can either use store-bought bagels or make your own.

If you're short on time, you can simply slice two standard-sized bagels in half and place them into the air fryer basket, cut-side up. Set the air fryer to 370-380°F (190-193°C) for 3-4 minutes, depending on how crispy you like your bagel.

If you want to make your own bagels, you'll need a few simple ingredients. Most recipes call for self-rising flour and yogurt, but you can also add an egg white wash and some bagel seasoning. Once you've made your dough, divide it into equal portions and roll each portion into a long, thin rope. Connect both ends to form the bagel shape.

Brush the bagels with melted butter, milk, or cream, and sprinkle with your desired toppings. Place 3-4 bagels into the air fryer basket, leaving enough space for them to rise and cook evenly. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175-180°C) and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.

Once your bagels are cooked, you can slice them in half and fill them with your favorite sandwich toppings. Some popular options include cream cheese, butter, deli meats, cheeses, and fresh fruits or vegetables.

And there you have it! A delicious bagel sandwich made in your air fryer.

How to make French toast bagels in an air fryer

Air Fryer French Toast Bagels are a delicious, high-protein breakfast option. The dough is made with plain non-fat Greek yoghurt and flavoured with cinnamon and nutmeg. The bagels are brushed with a maple and coconut palm sugar glaze before air-frying, which gives the tops a sweet and crackly texture.

To make the dough, start by measuring and adding flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg to a mixing bowl. Whisk to combine. Next, add in the yoghurt and use a spatula to combine and shape the mixture into a ball. Transfer the dough onto a generously floured surface and divide it into four equal pieces. Roll each piece in flour, then shape and roll between your hands to form a 9 to 10-inch rope. Connect the ends and pinch to secure.

In a small bowl, combine maple syrup with one generous tablespoon of coconut palm sugar and half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to make the glaze. Brush the shaped bagels with this mixture.

Place the bagels in your air fryer insert, using parchment paper designed for air fryers. Do not preheat the air fryer with parchment paper inside. Work in batches if needed and air fry for 12 minutes. Remove and repeat with the remaining bagels if necessary.

Slice the bagels in half and toast. Increase the heat of your air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit. Swipe the cut side with butter or, if using cream cheese, lightly spray with olive oil instead. Place the two halves into the preheated air fryer and air fry for 2 to 4 minutes, or until your desired level of toastiness is achieved.

Your French Toast Bagels are now ready to be enjoyed! Spread them with butter, cream cheese, or maple bacon cream cheese, according to your preference.

Frequently asked questions