Introduction
Bagels are a delicious breakfast or snack option loved by many. While traditionally made in an oven, you can also make a bagel in the air fryer for a quicker and easier alternative. In this article, we will guide you through the simple steps to achieve a perfectly toasted bagel using an air fryer in 2023.
Ingredients
For the bagel:
– 2 bagels of your choice
– Cooking spray or olive oil
– Optional: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning
For the toppings:
– Cream cheese
– Sliced tomato
– Red onion, thinly sliced
– Freshly ground black pepper
– Optional: lox or smoked salmon
Instructions
1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your bagels cook evenly and achieve the desired crispness. Preheating usually takes around 3-5 minutes, depending on your air fryer model.
2. Prepare the Bagels
Slice the bagels in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom half. If desired, you can lightly toast the bagel halves in a toaster before air frying for an extra crunch.
3. Spray or Brush with Oil
Lightly coat the inside and outside of each bagel half with cooking spray or brush them with olive oil. This step helps enhance the golden crust and prevents the bagels from drying out during the air frying process.
4. Add Seasonings
If you prefer a flavorful twist, sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning on top of each bagel half. This will give your bagels an extra burst of taste and texture.
5. Air Fry the Bagels
Place the bagel halves in the air fryer basket or tray, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Air fry the bagels at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 5-7 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
6. Check for Doneness
After the initial cooking time, check the bagels for doneness. They should be golden brown and crisp on the outside, while still soft and chewy on the inside. If needed, continue air frying for an additional minute or two until they reach your desired level of toastiness.
7. Let Them Cool
Once the bagels are perfectly air fried, carefully remove them from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes. This will prevent any burns and also help the bagels maintain their texture.
8. Add Toppings
Now it’s time to add your favorite bagel toppings. Slather cream cheese on each bagel half and top with sliced tomato, red onion, freshly ground black pepper, and any other desired toppings. For a classic twist, you can also add lox or smoked salmon.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your homemade air fryer bagels immediately, and enjoy them while they are still warm and crispy. They make a perfect breakfast, brunch, or snack option that will surely satisfy your cravings.
10. Storage
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through.
Conclusion
Making bagels in the air fryer is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this classic treat. With these simple steps, you can create perfectly toasted bagels with a golden crust and a soft, chewy interior. Experiment with different toppings and seasonings to customize your bagel to your liking. Give this recipe a try and satisfy your bagel cravings in no time!