3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels (With Gluten-Free Option)
If you’ve ever thought making bagels at home sounded complicated, time-consuming, or totally unrealistic for a busy day—this recipe is about to change everything. These 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels are fluffy, chewy, golden on the outside, and ready in under 15 minutes from start to finish. No yeast. No boiling. No rising time. Just mix, shape, air fry, and enjoy.
What makes this recipe truly magical is its simplicity. With just three pantry-friendly ingredients, you get real bagels with that classic chewy bite and tender interior. Even better? This recipe includes an easy gluten-free option, so everyone can enjoy fresh, warm bagels without stress or special equipment.
Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a high-protein snack, or a healthier bread alternative, these air fryer bagels deliver. They’re endlessly customizable, freezer-friendly, and perfect for beginners or seasoned home cooks alike.
Why You’ll Love These 3 Ingredient Bagels
There’s a reason these bagels have gone viral—and it’s not just because they’re easy. They actually work.
The combination of self-rising flour and Greek yogurt creates a dough that mimics traditional bagel texture without yeast. The air fryer finishes them with a lightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and chewy.
Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation:
- No yeast, no boiling water, no waiting
- Done in about 15 minutes
- Made with simple, affordable ingredients
- High in protein thanks to Greek yogurt
- Easy gluten-free swap
- Perfect for meal prep
Once you make them once, you’ll wonder why you ever bought store-bought bagels again.
Ingredients
- Self-rising flour
- Plain Greek yogurt (thick, unsweetened)
- Baking powder
Optional Toppings:
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Sesame seeds
- Poppy seeds
- Garlic powder
- Egg wash (optional, for shine)
Gluten-Free Option:
Use a gluten-free self-rising flour blend or gluten-free all-purpose flour plus baking powder.
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine self-rising flour and baking powder.
- Add Greek yogurt and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth.
- Divide dough into equal portions and roll each into a rope.
- Shape ropes into bagel rings, pinching ends to seal.
- Lightly spray air fryer basket with oil and place bagels inside, spaced apart.
- Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Remove, cool slightly, and serve warm.
3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix flour and baking powder in a bowl.
- Add Greek yogurt and stir until dough forms.
- Knead lightly until smooth and divide into portions.
- Shape into bagels and place in greased air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until golden.
Notes
Gluten-Free Bagel Tips That Actually Work
Gluten-free dough behaves differently, but these adjustments make all the difference:
- Use thick Greek yogurt—runny yogurt makes sticky dough
- Let the dough rest 5 minutes before shaping
- Handle gently and avoid over-kneading
- Lightly oil hands instead of adding too much flour
The result? Soft, chewy gluten-free bagels that don’t crumble or dry out.
Flavor Variations to Try
Once you master the base recipe, the variations are endless:
Everything Bagel
Sprinkle everything seasoning on top before air frying.
Cheddar Bagels
Mix shredded cheese into the dough.
Cinnamon Bagels
Add cinnamon and a touch of sweetener to the dough.
Garlic & Herb
Mix garlic powder and dried herbs into the flour.
Protein Boost
Use extra-thick Greek yogurt for even more protein.
Serving Ideas
These air fryer bagels work for any time of day:
- Toasted with cream cheese or butter
- Breakfast sandwich with egg and cheese
- Mini bagel pizzas
- Avocado toast base
- Sandwich bread alternative
They’re small, satisfying, and incredibly versatile.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freeze for up to 2 months
- Reheat in air fryer or toaster for best texture
Avoid microwaving if possible—it softens the exterior too much.
Why the Air Fryer Is Perfect for Bagels
Traditional bagels require boiling, baking, and careful timing. The air fryer simplifies everything. It circulates hot air evenly, creating that golden exterior without drying out the inside. Plus, it preheats quickly and uses less energy than an oven.
For small-batch baking, the air fryer is unbeatable.
Final Thoughts
These 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Bagels prove that homemade bread doesn’t have to be intimidating. With minimal effort and maximum payoff, this recipe gives you warm, chewy bagels whenever the craving hits. Add the gluten-free option, and it becomes a recipe everyone can enjoy.
Once you try them, you’ll never look at bagels the same way again.
