These easy, protein-packed bagels are soft, chewy, and golden — the perfect “healthy bagel” fix without all the fuss (or guilt). Made from just two main ingredients, they deliver that real bagel bite and flavor you love, especially when you boil them first before air frying. Perfect for breakfast sandwiches, snacks, or meal prep!

🧂 Ingredients

  • 1 cup self-rising flour
    You can make your own by combining 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1½ tsp baking powder + ¼ tsp salt.
  • 1 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt
    Thick, strained yogurt like Fage or Chobani works best — avoid runny yogurt.
  • Optional toppings:
    • Everything bagel seasoning
    • Coarse sea salt
    • Poppy seeds or sesame seeds
    • Shredded cheese, garlic flakes, or cinnamon sugar
  • Cooking spray (like Pam) for air fryer basket
  • Water for boiling (about 4–6 cups in a medium saucepan)

🍽️ Equipment You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Clean surface for kneading
  • Saucepan for boiling
  • Air fryer
  • Slotted spoon or tongs
  • Parchment paper or silicone liner (optional for air fryer)

👩‍🍳 Instructions (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Make the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and self-rising flour.
  2. Stir with a spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Use your hands to gently knead the dough in the bowl or on a lightly floured surface for about 1–2 minutes, until smooth and slightly tacky but not sticky.
    • If it’s too wet, sprinkle in a bit more flour.
    • If it’s too dry or crumbly, add 1–2 tsp of yogurt.

Step 2: Shape the Bagels

  1. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.
  2. Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
  3. Use your finger or the end of a spoon handle to poke a large hole in the center of each dough ball.
    • Stretch the hole wide — it will shrink a bit during boiling and baking.
    • You can also roll each piece into a rope and connect the ends to form a ring.

Step 3: Boil the Bagels (Optional but Worth It!)

  1. Fill a medium saucepan with water and bring it to a gentle boil.
  2. Carefully drop each bagel into the boiling water, 1–2 at a time.
  3. Boil for about 30 seconds per side.
  4. Remove with a slotted spoon and let them drain briefly on a paper towel or wire rack. 💡 Boiling gives your bagels that chewy, authentic texture and shiny crust — just like bakery-style ones!

Step 4: Add Toppings

  1. While the boiled bagels are still slightly damp, sprinkle your desired toppings on top.
    • Everything bagel seasoning and coarse salt are classic!
    • Press toppings gently into the surface so they stick.

Step 5: Air Fry

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
  2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket or tray with nonstick cooking spray (Pam).
  3. Arrange the bagels in a single layer, leaving a little space between each.
  4. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through if needed, until golden brown and firm to the touch.
    • If you like them darker or crispier, cook an extra 2–3 minutes.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

  1. Remove the bagels and let them cool slightly on a rack — this helps the crust set.
  2. Slice, toast, and enjoy!

🍳 Serving Ideas

  • Classic: Toast and spread with cream cheese or butter.
  • Breakfast sandwich: Add egg, turkey bacon, and cheese.
  • Sweet version: Top with cinnamon and drizzle with honey or almond butter.
  • Pizza bagel: Spread with marinara and cheese, then air fry for 2–3 minutes more.

🧊 Storage & Meal Prep

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigerate: Up to 5 days.
  • Freeze: Once cooled, wrap individually and freeze up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer or toaster oven before serving.

💡 Tips for Success

  • Yogurt consistency matters: If your Greek yogurt is thin, strain it with a paper towel for 10–15 minutes first.
  • Don’t overwork the dough: Mix until just combined for soft, tender bagels.
  • Try flavor variations: Mix herbs, cinnamon, or shredded cheese right into the dough for variety.

⚡ Nutrition (Approx. per bagel)

(Based on 4 bagels and using nonfat Greek yogurt + self-rising flour)

  • Calories: ~150–160
  • Protein: ~10–12g
  • Carbs: ~25g
  • Fat: ~1–2g
  • WW Points: About 3 points (varies by brand)