Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of self-rising flour and Greek yogurt is the star of this recipe. Self-rising flour contains baking powder and salt, allowing you to create a deliciously airy bagel without the need for yeast or lengthy proofing times. The Greek yogurt not only adds moisture but also contributes to the protein content, yielding a chewy texture that perfectly complements the bagel's crust. In this recipe, it’s essential to ensure the yogurt is thick and creamy for the best results, as thinner varieties might alter the dough's consistency.

If you're looking to reduce carbs or make this recipe gluten-free, you can substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just make sure it contains a leavening agent; otherwise, you might need to add some baking powder. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based yogurt that’s similar in consistency to Greek yogurt. This tweak will still allow you to achieve that delightful chewiness while accommodating various dietary needs.

Perfecting the Techniques

Kneading the dough is a crucial step that should not be rushed. For about 1-2 minutes on a floured surface is just enough to develop the gluten, creating that essential chewiness you expect from bagels. Avoid over-kneading, as this can lead to tough bagels. When shaping your bagels, ensure the hole in the center is large enough — it should be about the width of a finger — as the dough will puff up during air frying, reducing the size of the hole.

Preheating your air fryer is vital to ensure even cooking and a golden-brown exterior. Set it to 350°F (175°C) before you start shaping, as it allows the bagels to cook through thoroughly within the recommended 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the bagels as they cook; you’re looking for a lovely golden hue. If they aren't browning after the minimum time, you can add a couple of extra minutes, ensuring you're checking periodically to avoid overcooking.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Once completely cooled, wrap each bagel in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the air fryer for a few minutes to reheat.

There are endless ways to enjoy these yogurt bagels! Try them with classic cream cheese and lox for a traditional breakfast, or mix things up with avocado and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a modern twist. You can also experiment with sweet toppings like Nutella or peanut butter paired with banana slices. The versatility of these bagels allows you to cater to various tastes and occasions, making them a delightful addition to your breakfast repertoire.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your dough is too sticky while mixing or kneading, you can sprinkle a little more self-rising flour until it reaches a workable consistency. However, be cautious not to add too much, as this can lead to a dense bagel. Conversely, if the dough feels too dry, a spoonful of yogurt can help incorporate more moisture without ruining the batch.

Another common issue is bagels not rising adequately in the air fryer. Ensure that your baking powder (included in the self-rising flour) is fresh, as old leavening agents can lead to lackluster dough. If your bagels don’t puff up, you can also try letting the dough rest for a few minutes after kneading; this helps relax the gluten and can improve the rise.

Variations and Toppings

Feel free to experiment with different toppings! Aside from the well-loved everything bagel seasoning, consider trying shredded cheese, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a sweet twist. You can mix toppings directly into the dough if you want infused flavors, such as adding in some herbs for a savory bagel.

If you're feeding a crowd or want smaller bagels, this recipe scales beautifully. Simply halve or double the ingredients accordingly, maintaining the same air frying temperature. To create smaller bagels, aim to divide the dough into 8-12 pieces instead of 6, and adjust cooking time accordingly, checking for doneness a few minutes earlier.