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Air Fryer Toasted Bagel

Name: Air Fryer Toasted Bagel
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 4 min
Total time: 7 min
Ingredients: 1 fresh bagel; toppings (of your choice)

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Toasting Bagels In The Air Fryer — Good morning, fellow breakfast enthusiasts! 🌞 Today, I’m excited to share a game-changing method for starting your morning: Toasting bagels in the air fryer! 🥯✨

Gone are the days of waiting for your toaster to do its job or settling for unevenly toasted bagels. Our versatile kitchen hero, the air fryer, delivers perfectly toasted bagels with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.

Unlock the secret to perfectly toasted bagels with the convenience of your air fryer! This simple guide will show you how to use your favorite kitchen gadget to achieve that irresistible, crispy exterior and warm, soft interior.

Can You Toast A Bagel In Air Fryer?

Yes! Toasting a bagel in an air fryer is possible and quite efficient. If you love a perfectly toasted bagel, try my recipe for air-fried cinnamon raisin bagels, air-fried poppy seeds bagels, air-fried bagel pizzas, air-fried plain bagels, or air-fried blueberry bagels, or make the perfect toast in the air fryer.

Top off the crispy bagel with my Instant Pot homemade orange marmalade or Instant Pot Cream Cheese.

Bagel In The Air Fryer

Starting the morning with an air fryer bagel has become a staple in our household. They are so crispy and delicious!

There is nothing wrong with making a toasted bagel using your toaster, but I needed countertop space, so I chose my air fryer instead. It works better for our family because we use it more than a traditional toaster.

If you are looking for even more Air Fryer Toast Recipes, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER GARLIC TOAST, AIR FRYER, HOMEMADE CINNAMON TOAST, and AIR FRYER AVOCADO TOAST.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Toasted Bagels

Incredibly easy
Great for a fast breakfast or snack
Fast
Can add all your favorite toppings
Family-friendly

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Perfectly Toasted Bagel

Embark on a journey to crispy, golden perfection with our simple yet delightful Air Fryer Perfectly Toasted Bagels recipe. You only need simple ingredients to transform your ordinary bagel into a delightful, toasty treat.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Bagels: Choose your favorite fresh bagel variety—plain, whole wheat, everything, or cinnamon raisin. Each brings a unique flavor to your toasted creation.
Butter or Olive Oil (Optional): A light brush of melted butter or a drizzle of olive oil can add a rich, savory note, enhancing the bagel’s texture and flavor as it toasts to perfection.
Your Favorite Spread: Cream cheese, peanut butter, or avocado—your choice—adds a creamy, flavorful finish to your warm, toasted bagel.
Toppings (Optional): From slices of fresh tomato and lox to a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a dash of herbs, toppings can elevate your toasted bagel to a gourmet breakfast experience.

This list of ingredients showcases the simplicity and versatility of creating a deliciously toasted bagel in your air fryer, making your morning routine or snack time effortless and satisfying.

How To Toast Bagels In Air Fryer

Toasting bagels in an air fryer is a simple and efficient process. Here are the detailed step-by-step instructions for making a perfectly toasted bagel in the air fryer.

Preheat the Air Fryer (Optional): Set your air fryer to 360 degrees F (182°C) for 1-2 minutes. Some models require preheating, while others don’t. If yours does, let it warm up for a few minutes.

Prepare the Bagels: Slice the bagels in half with a serrated knife. If you prefer a little extra crunch or flavor, lightly brush the cut sides with butter or olive oil, but this step is optional.

Place Bagels in Air Fryer: Arrange the bagel halves in the preheated air fryer basket, cut-side up. Ensure they’re not overlapping or touching too closely to allow for even toasting.

How long to toast bagel in air fryer: Cook the bagels at 360°F (182°C) for 5-6 minutes. If you didn’t preheat the air fryer, they might need an additional minute.

Check the Doneness: After 4 to 5 minutes, check the bagels. If you like them more toasted, you can add another minute. Be careful not to overdo it; they can quickly go from perfectly toasted to burnt.

Remove and Enjoy: Once they’re toasted to your satisfaction, carefully remove the bagels from the air fryer. They will be hot, so it’s advisable to use tongs or a spatula.

Add Toppings: Now’s the fun part – add your favorite toppings. Whether it’s classic cream cheese, a savory spread, or something sweet, the choice is yours!

Pro Tips

Toasting bagels in an air fryer can yield delicious results, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate this simple task to perfection. Here are some expert suggestions to keep in mind:

Avoid Overcrowding: To ensure even toasting, do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. The hot air needs to circulate around the bagels, so they should be placed in a single layer with some space in between.
Check Midway: Air fryers can vary in how they cook. Halfway through the suggested cooking time, quickly open the air fryer and check on the bagels. This allows you to adjust the time to avoid over or under-tasting.
Use the Right Temperature: 360°F (182°C) is ideal for toasting bagels. It’s hot enough to quickly toast them without burning them.
Adjust Time for Preferences: If you prefer lightly toasted bagels, check them for around 3-4 minutes. For crisper bagels, let them toast for 5 minutes or slightly longer. Remember, the longer they stay in, the crispier they will get.
Consider Flipping: Flip the bagels halfway through the cooking time for an extra crispy crust. This isn’t strictly necessary, but it can promote an even toast on both the cut and crust sides.
Use a Light Oil Spray (Optional): If you like your bagel with a crunchy exterior, consider using a light oil spray on the cut side before toasting. This can add a nice texture.
Experiment with Bagel Types: Different bagels (e.g., plain, sesame, whole wheat) may toast slightly differently. Be open to adjusting the toasting time based on the specific type of bagel you’re using.
Add Toppings After Toasting: If you’re using toppings like cheese or garlic butter, add them after the initial toasting for a minute or two, just enough to melt or warm the cheese.
Stay Nearby: The air fryer works quickly, so it’s best to stay close. This way, you can prevent over-toasting, which can happen in seconds.
Clean Regularly: Clean your air fryer to prevent old food particles from burning or sticking to your bagels. Regular cleaning ensures better-tasting food and a longer lifespan for your appliance.

Following these tips, you can master toasting bagels in the air fryer, achieving your desired crunch and warmth every time.

Best Bagel Toppings

Selecting the best toppings for your air-fried bagel can transform it from a simple bread to a delightful and satisfying meal or snack. Here are some popular and delicious bagel topping ideas:

Cream Cheese: A traditional favorite, plain or flavored cream cheeses, such as herb, garlic, or strawberry, offer a creamy, tangy base.
Lox and Cream Cheese: Thinly sliced smoked salmon with cream cheese, often accompanied by capers, red onions, and a squeeze of lemon.
Butter: Simple yet satisfying, especially on a warm, toasted bagel.
Peanut Butter and Jelly: A sweet and nutty classic that’s filling and comforting.
Nutella with Sliced Bananas: A rich and decadent option for those with a sweet tooth.
Honey and Almond Butter: A healthier, sweet option, perfect with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Avocado (or Avocado Toast Style): Mashed or sliced avocado with a pinch of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Egg and Cheese: Scrambled or fried egg with melted cheese for a hearty breakfast bagel.
Turkey and Swiss Cheese: Ideal for a lunchtime bagel, possibly with a bit of mustard or mayo.
Goat Cheese and Roasted Red Peppers: A sophisticated combination with a unique flavor profile.
Hummus and Cucumber: A refreshing and Mediterranean-inspired option.
Brie and Pear/Apple Slices: A delightful pairing, especially when the brie is slightly melted.
Tofu Cream Cheese: A vegan alternative to regular cream cheese, available in various flavors.
Vegetable Schmear: A blend of finely chopped vegetables mixed into cream cheese or a vegan alternative.
Grilled Vegetables: Like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, seasoned and grilled.
Greek Yogurt and Fresh Berries: A lighter alternative to cream cheese with a fresh, fruity twist.
Almond Butter and Chia Seeds: Nutrient-dense and rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Smoked Salmon and Greek Yogurt: A healthier take on the classic lox and cream cheese.
Buffalo Chicken and Blue Cheese: A bold, spicy option for those who like it hot.
Pesto and Mozzarella: A taste of Italy, perfect on a toasted bagel.
Bacon, Egg, and Sriracha: A spicy twist on the classic bacon and egg bagel.

These toppings range from classic to creative, ensuring something for everyone’s taste. Mixing and matching different ingredients can lead to delightful discoveries, so don’t be afraid to experiment with your bagel toppings!

Faq’s Toasting Air Fryer Bagels

How long should I toast a bagel in the air fryer? Generally, toasting a bagel in an air fryer takes about 4-5 minutes at 360°F (182°C). However, this can vary depending on your air fryer model and how crispy you like your bagel. To air fry mini bagels, you can reduce the cooking time to 2-3 minutes.

Can I toast frozen bagels in the air fryer? Yes, you can toast frozen bagels in the air fryer. You might need to add 1-2 minutes to the usual toasting time. There’s no need to thaw them first.

Should I slice the bagel before air frying? Yes, it’s best to slice the bagel in half before toasting. This ensures even cooking and a crispy texture on the cut sides.

Can I add toppings like cheese before toasting in the air fryer? It’s better to toast the bagel first and then add toppings like cheese. If you add them beforehand, you risk burning the toppings before properly toasting the bagel.

Is flipping the bagel halves during toasting necessary? It’s unnecessary, but flipping the bagels halfway through can promote even toasting.

Can I toast more than one bagel in the air fryer at a time? Yes, as long as they fit in a single layer without overlapping. Overcrowding can lead to uneven toasting. In a basket-style air fryer, you can usually fit 2-3 bagels, and in an oven-style air fryer, you can fit about 6 bagels.

Do I need to use oil or butter on the bagel before toasting? It’s not required, but a light brushing can enhance the flavor and texture. However, if you prefer a drier, crisper texture, you can toast it without any added fats.

How do I know when the bagel is perfectly toasted? The bagel should be golden brown and crispy on the edges. The doneness can vary based on personal preference, so it’s a good idea to check the bagel at the 4-minute mark and adjust the time as needed.

Can I reheat a toasted bagel in the air fryer? Yes, you can. Set the air fryer to 360°F (182°C) and heat for 1-2 minutes.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

AIR FRYER CHERRY SCONES
HOW TO AIR FRYER A TOASTER STRUDEL
AIR FRYER BREAKFAST CASSEROLE
Air Fryer Breakfast Sandwich
Air Fryer English Muffins
Air Fyer Bagel Sandwiches

Equipment Used

WaveLab Air Fryer Silicone Pot

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