Soft Air Fryer Yogurt Bagels

Mastering the Dough

The key to achieving the perfect dough for these bagels lies in the ratio of Greek yogurt to flour. Using plain Greek yogurt not only adds moisture but also contributes to the bagels' unique flavor and soft texture. It's essential to use full-fat yogurt as it yields the best results. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with low-fat yogurt, but be ready for a slightly different texture—still enjoyable, just not as rich.

When forming the dough, avoid over-kneading. The goal is to create a smooth, cohesive texture without gluten overdevelopment. If the dough feels too sticky after mixing, you can add a little extra flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable. A well-combined dough will ensure the bagels have a chewy bite that’s characteristic of traditional bagels.

Customizing Your Bagels

One of the great advantages of this recipe is its versatility. Experimenting with toppings is a fun way to personalize your bagels. Traditional toppings like sesame seeds or poppy seeds work beautifully, but don't hesitate to try out herbs, shredded cheese, or even spices for a creative twist. Just sprinkle them generously after applying the egg wash for maximum adherence.

If you're looking for a savory option, consider incorporating finely chopped herbs into the dough itself. Fresh dill or chives can elevate the flavor. Alternatively, for a sweeter version, try adding cinnamon and a touch of sugar into the dough; these can be delightful when paired with cream cheese or a sweet spread.

Storing and Serving Tips

Once your bagels are cooked and cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap them individually and place them in the freezer; they can last for about a month. To reheat, simply pop them in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes, which will revive that delightful chewy texture.

These bagels are perfect for various meals. Serve them plain with cream cheese and smoked salmon for a brunch treat or slice them to create breakfast sandwiches packed with eggs and avocado. For a lighter option, they can also be enjoyed plain or toasted with a smear of butter and jam, making them a versatile choice for any table.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels come out denser than expected, it could be due to the yogurt being too thick or using too much flour during mixing. Always start with the recommended amounts and adjust by adding extra flour gradually if the dough feels overly sticky. Alternatively, if they spread out too much during cooking, ensure that you're shaping the bagels tightly and maintaining proper space in the air fryer not to overcrowd.

Another common issue is getting uneven cooking. This can happen if the air fryer basket is packed too tightly. Make sure that each bagel has enough space around it for hot air to circulate. Dutch-style or larger air fryers can often house more without clogging airflow, enabling even cooking.

Scaling the Recipe

Easily double or triple this recipe for larger crowds or meal prepping! Just maintain the same ingredient ratios. Be mindful of adjusting the cooking times slightly if you're making larger or more bagels? You may need to extend the cooking time by 2-3 minutes while keeping a close watch for that golden brown exterior.

When scaling up, it's also important to ensure your air fryer can accommodate the newly-shaped bagels. Consider cooking them in batches if necessary. Each batch should be treated the same way to keep consistency in flavor and texture across all the bagels you make.