Easy Air Fryer Mini Bagels Recipe

There is nothing quite like sinking your teeth into freshly made bagels that are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, especially when they’re mini, fluffy, and ready in a snap. These Easy Air Fryer Mini Bagels are an absolute game changer for anyone craving homemade bagels without the fuss of boiling or long baking times. Crafted with simple gluten-free ingredients and Greek yogurt, this recipe delivers a delightful chewiness and flavor that will have you hooked from the first bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these mini bagels are as approachable as they are delicious, making breakfast or snack time truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these Easy Air Fryer Mini Bagels lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—flour forms the hearty base, baking powder gives lift, salt boosts flavor, and Greek yogurt adds moisture and tang while keeping things tender. The everything bagel seasoning brings that classic savory pop and the little touch of olive oil or egg white helps everything stick just right.

• 1 cup gluten-free 1:1 flour: A perfect base that keeps these bagels light and safe for gluten-sensitive folks; King Arthur’s is a reliable choice.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: This leavens the dough gently to create that signature airy texture without heaviness.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor, ensuring every bite tastes balanced and satisfying.
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and tang that gives these bagels their soft, slightly chewy crumb.
• 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning: A blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, and onion that brings that irresistible savory crunch.
• Olive oil spray, egg white, or water: Used to coat the bagel dough so the seasoning sticks perfectly, giving each bite a tasteful coating.

How to Make Easy Air Fryer Mini Bagels

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by whisking together your gluten-free flour, baking powder, and kosher salt in a medium bowl. Then stir in the Greek yogurt and mix until a thick, slightly wet dough forms—it should be chunky but coming together nicely. Sprinkle a bit of flour on your hands and the dough, kneading gently in the bowl until it smooths into a soft ball. This quick kneading is key to getting the perfect texture without toughening the dough.

Step 2: Shape the Mini Bagels

Turn the dough onto a floured surface, and knead it for about a minute more to get it nice and pliable. Using a rounded tablespoon, scoop portions of dough and roll them into tight little balls. This recipe yields around 12 to 13 mini bagels—just the perfect size for snacking or pairing with your favorite spreads.

Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, giving it a few minutes to get nice and hot. This step ensures your mini bagels cook evenly and develop a crisp crust without drying out inside.

Step 4: Add the Seasoning

Lightly spray each dough ball with olive oil, or brush with egg white or water—whichever you prefer—to help the everything bagel seasoning stick perfectly. Then roll the dough balls in the seasoning or sprinkle it on, depending on how much crunch and flavor you want. This is where your kitchen fills with that irresistible bagel aroma.

Step 5: Air Fry the Bagels

Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking, then arrange your mini bagels leaving about an inch between each to allow for expansion. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, checking at 10 minutes by gently pulling one apart to make sure it’s cooked through without any doughy spots. If needed, give them a couple more minutes for that perfect finish.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Once they’re beautifully golden and cooked through, transfer the bagels to a plate and allow them to cool for about five minutes. This short rest lets the texture settle and brings out their best flavor—then it’s time to dive in!

How to Serve Easy Air Fryer Mini Bagels

Garnishes

These mini bagels are a canvas for all your favorite toppings. Slather on cream cheese for classic indulgence, or try flavored spreads like herbed goat cheese or smoked salmon mousse for something fancy. Freshly sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and chives add color and brightness that balance the hearty dough perfectly.

Side Dishes

If you’re serving these mini bagels as part of a meal, think about crisp veggie sticks, a fresh fruit salad, or even a bowl of savory soup like tomato basil to complement the chewy bagels. Their size makes them ideal finger food alongside chili or hearty breakfast eggs.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these mini bagels into sliders by slicing them horizontally and filling with deli meats, cheese, and pickles for a portable snack. Or assemble a bagel board with an array of cheeses, cured meats, spreads, and pickled veggies for a fun, interactive feast that’s sure to impress guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Easy Air Fryer Mini Bagels left (which rarely happens!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft but ready to be enjoyed again without losing their fresh-baked charm.

Freezing

For a longer shelf life, pop the cooled bagels into a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re craving them, simply thaw at room temperature or gently reheat straight from the freezer—you’ll find they almost taste freshly made.

Reheating

To bring your mini bagels back to their best, toast them lightly in a toaster or crisp them up in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3-4 minutes. This method revives their crispiness and warm softness, perfect for pairing with your favorite toppings.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free flour?

Absolutely! If gluten isn’t a concern, you can swap the gluten-free flour with all-purpose flour. You might want to adjust the amount slightly if the dough feels too sticky or dry, but generally it works very well.

Can I customize the seasoning?

Definitely! While everything bagel seasoning is classic, you can use sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic powder, or even cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist. The air fryer method is flexible and wonderful for experimenting.

Do I need an air fryer to make these bagels?

An air fryer is recommended for its speed and ease, but you could bake them in a conventional oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-18 minutes. The air fryer just gives that extra crispy crust with less time.

How do I ensure the bagels cook evenly?

Space your bagels at least an inch apart in the air fryer basket and avoid overcrowding. This allows hot air to circulate well. Also, preheating the air fryer is crucial so the outside crisps up quickly.

Can I add flavors into the dough?

Yes! You could mix in herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even a bit of grated cheese. Just be mindful not to add too much moisture, which can affect the consistency and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Air Fryer Mini Bagels are truly a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. Whether you’re crafting a quick breakfast, an impressive snack, or a charming addition to your brunch spread, this recipe delivers fresh, flavorful results with minimal effort. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite bagel hack that saves time without sacrificing any of the charm and taste you love.

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