Is there anything that screams “comfort food” more than a warm, lightly toasted bagel topped with your favorite spread? Just like your favorite cozy sweater on a chilly day, these Air Fryer Bagel Minis are comforting, familiar, and oh-so-satisfying.
Now, you might be wondering, why make mini bagels in an air fryer? Well, the quick answer is – why not? The beauty of using an air fryer is that it gives these little beauties a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the insides soft and chewy. Just like a perfectly toasted marshmallow at a bonfire, only better because it’s a bagel!
The Magic of Air Fryers
The air fryer is a culinary wizard that can transform your everyday recipes into a magical feast. It works by circulating hot air around the food, giving it a crispy outer layer that is reminiscent of deep-frying but without all the extra oil. It’s like having your own personal mini convection oven!
For this recipe, the air fryer does double duty. Not only does it bake the bagel dough to perfection, but it also toasts them to a beautiful golden brown. No need to turn on your oven or mess with a toaster. The air fryer does it all in one go!
Your Bagel, Your Way
One of the best things about making homemade bagels is that you can customize them to your liking. Do you prefer a classic poppy seed topping? Or maybe you’re more of a sesame seed person. The choice is completely up to you!
For these Air Fryer Bagel Minis, I chose to keep things simple with a sprinkle of coarse salt on top. But feel free to get creative! Try adding garlic powder, onion flakes, or even a bit of cheese. After all, it’s your bagel – make it your way!
Creating the Perfect Dough
Crafting the perfect bagel dough can be a bit of a science, but don’t let that intimidate you. With just a few simple ingredients – flour, yeast, water, and a pinch of salt – you’re well on your way to making delicious homemade bagels.
The key to a good bagel dough is to knead it until it’s smooth and elastic. This might take a bit of elbow grease, but trust me, it’s worth it. The result is a dough that’s easy to shape and bakes up beautifully in the air fryer.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Coarse salt for topping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Poke a hole in the center of each ball to form the bagel shape.
- Place the mini bagels in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F for 10 minutes, or until they’re golden brown.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Tips for Air Fryer Bagel Minis
Ensure your air fryer is preheated before adding the bagels to achieve that perfect golden brown crust. To prevent the bagels from sticking, lightly oil the air fryer basket before placing the dough in. For a sweet twist, try adding cinnamon and raisins to your dough.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This recipe is a game-changer because it simplifies the bagel-making process without sacrificing flavor or texture. These Air Fryer Bagel Minis are not only incredibly delicious, but they are also a healthier option as they require less oil than traditional bagels. Plus, the mini size makes them perfect for snacking, breakfast on-the-go, or serving at brunch with your favorite spreads and toppings.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 150 kcal per bagel mini