Air Fryer Garlic Herb Bagels

Name: Air Fryer Garlic Herb Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like parsley or basil), chopped; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making bagels in the air fryer! They come out crispy on the outside and delightfully chewy inside, all while being so much simpler than the traditional boiling method. When I decided to infuse them with garlic and herbs, I was amazed by how fragrant and flavorful they turned out. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for breakfast or a quick snack. You won't believe how easy it is to achieve that freshly-baked flavor at home!

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-02-16T03:33:36.467Z

Making these Air Fryer Garlic Herb Bagels was a delightful experiment! I started with a basic dough and incorporated freshly minced garlic and a mix of my favorite herbs. The air fryer method surprised me with how evenly they cooked, giving that genuine bagel texture without the fuss of boiling water.

What I found particularly useful was preheating the air fryer. This little step ensured that the bagels rose perfectly while staying fluffy inside. You’ll find it hard to eat just one—each bite offers a burst of flavor that keeps me coming back for more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy exterior with a soft, chewy interior
Intense flavor from fresh garlic and herbs
Quick and easy preparation without boiling

Mastering the Dough

The success of these air fryer bagels hinges on the dough's consistency. After mixing the dry ingredients, the Greek yogurt is key to achieving the right texture. It adds moisture and elasticity, which helps create that chewy center. Be careful not to over-knead; just a few gentle folds will keep the bagels tender. If you find the dough too sticky, adding a sprinkle of flour can help, but adjust gradually to avoid drying it out.

If you're looking for a richer flavor, consider swapping out plain Greek yogurt for a flavored variety, such as garlic or herb. This will further enhance the bagels without adding extra steps. Remember to adjust the salt if using a salted yogurt to avoid an overly salty outcome. Having all your ingredients at room temperature can also facilitate easier mixing and result in a more uniform dough.

Perfecting the Bagel Shape

When shaping your bagels, aim for uniformity in size; this ensures even cooking and a consistent texture throughout. You should create a hole in the center large enough to prevent it from closing up during cooking—around one to two inches in diameter is ideal. Gently twist the ends together to secure the shape without squishing the dough too much.

If you want a decorative touch, consider a dusting of sesame or poppy seeds before air frying. To do this, apply the egg wash then sprinkle the seeds generously. This not only adds flavor but also gives the bagels an appealing visual finish. A light hand with your toppings will ensure they adhere well without overwhelming the garlic and herb flavor.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like parsley or basil), chopped
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and chopped herbs. Stir in the Greek yogurt until a dough forms. Knead lightly on a floured surface.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and shape it into a bagel by connecting the ends.

Air Fry the Bagels

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the bagels in the fryer basket, brush with beaten egg, and cook for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, sprinkle some sesame or poppy seeds on top before air frying. Adjust the herbs based on your preference—the possibilities are endless!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These garlic herb bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the bagels individually after they cool completely. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy exterior.

If you want to prepare them ahead of time, you can shape the bagels and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before air frying. Just allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking, which helps them rise a bit before going in the fryer.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to experiment with different herbs or add-ins to match your personal preferences. Dried herbs like oregano, dill, or thyme can easily substitute for fresh herbs if that's what's available. You can even incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or cheese into the dough for added flavor and texture.

For a sweeter twist, you can omit the garlic and herbs altogether and fold in fruits like blueberries or cranberries. Just reduce the yogurt slightly to compensate for the extra moisture from the fruit. This variation can create a delightful breakfast bagel that pairs beautifully with cream cheese or a fruit-based spread.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier alternative, but you may need to adjust the liquid slightly.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with toppings like cheese, onion flakes, or anything else you enjoy.

→ Is it necessary to use Greek yogurt?

Greek yogurt adds moisture and helps in binding the dough, but you can substitute it with regular yogurt if needed.