Savor the delight of a perfectly toasted bagel without the need for a toaster! That’s right—an air fryer can achieve bagel perfection effortlessly. Not only is it simple, but it also allows you to prepare multiple servings at once! So, ditch the dull toaster and discover how to toast a bagel in an air fryer like a pro!

Perfectly toasted bagels in an air fryer, golden brown and crispy on the outside.
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Learn how to toast a bagel in an air fryer for a perfectly crispy and golden result every time! Discover easy steps and tips to achieve bagel perfection without a traditional toaster. Ideal for busy mornings and perfect for serving multiple bagels at once.

Why You’ll Love Cooking Bagels In The Air Fryer

  • Quick Cooking Time: Toasting in an air fryer takes a fraction of the time compared to traditional toasters or ovens.
  • Even Toasting: The air fryer circulates hot air evenly around the bagels, ensuring they are perfectly toasted on all sides.
  • Multiple Servings: With a larger air fryer basket, you can toast several bagels at once, making it ideal for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings.
  • Customizable Crunch: You can easily adjust the cooking time to achieve your preferred level of crispiness.
  • Less Mess: Air frying minimizes the cleanup compared to boiling bagels or using multiple kitchen appliances.
Step-by-step guide for toasting bagels in an air fryer, showcasing the process and perfectly toasted bagels.

How to toast a bagel without a toaster

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. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the sliced bagel halves for 3-5 minutes until toasted.

Stovetop Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast the bagel halves cut side down for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Oven: Broil the sliced bagel on a baking sheet for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

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

What You’ll Need

Toast bagels in the air fryer is easy, here are the ingredients, that you will need:

Ingredients Needed For Toasting a  Bagel In Air Fryer
  • Bagels – Pick your favorite! Whether it’s plain, whole wheat, everything, or cinnamon raisin, any bagel works great in the air fryer. Homemade or store-bought, it’s up to you.
  • Your Favorite Bagel Toppings (go wild!) – Want to jazz it up? Try some sliced tomatoes, smoked salmon, a sprinkle of seeds, or fresh herbs. These little extras can turn your bagel into a real treat.

How To Toast Bagels In The Air Fryer

Here are the step-by-step instructions for making a perfectly toasted bagel in the air fryer.

Place bagel into the air fryer basket.
  • 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: Now, 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: Next, cook the bagels at 360 degrees F (182°C) for 5-6 minutes. If you didn’t preheat the air fryer, they might need an additional minute.
Step-by-step guide for toasting bagels in an air fryer, showcasing the process and perfectly toasted bagels.
  • 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!
Air Fryer Toasted Bagel

Expert Tips

  • Allow space: Avoid overcrowding the basket. Bagels need room to toast evenly.
  • Monitor progress: Air fryers can vary. Check halfway through to prevent over-toasting.
  • 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. 
  • Consider flipping: For uniform crispness, turn your bagels over halfway through.
  • Optional oil: A light oil spray on the cut side can enhance crunchiness.
  • Experiment with bagel types: Different bagels (e.g., plain, sesame, whole wheat) may toast slightly differently.
  • Add toppings later: Place cheese or spreads after initial toasting for best results.
  • Stay attentive: Toasting bagels in air fryer is quick. Remain nearby to achieve desired doneness.
Bagel with cream cheese, lox and red onions, on a cutting board.

bagel toasted in air fryer recipe faqs

how to toast a bagel in ninja air fryer To toast a bagel in a Ninja air fryer, preheat the appliance to 350°F (175°C) and slice the bagel in half. Place the bagel halves in the air fryer basket, cut side up, and cook for 3-5 minutes until golden and crispy.

how to toast bagel in air fryer oven Toasting a bagel in an air fryer oven is quick and easy! Simply preheat the air fryer, place the halved bagel inside, and toast it for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

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.

Do I need to flip the bagel when toasting in an air fryer? 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.

Air Fryer Toasted Bagel on wooden cutting board.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

Equipment Used

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Air Fryer Toasted bagels

Air Fryer Toasted Bagel

5 from 1 vote
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 4 minutes
Total Time: 7 minutes
Servings: 1

Description

You can quickly and easily make a Toasted Bagel right in your air fryer. It makes the edges crispy and golden brown while the centers are still soft and delicious.

Ingredients 

  • 1 fresh bagel
  • toppings, of your choice

Instructions

  • 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.
  • Slice the whole bagel 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.
  • Arrange the bagel halves in the preheated air fryer basket, or air fryer oven cut-side up. Ensure they’re not overlapping or touching too closely to allow for even toasting.
  • Cook the bagels at 360°F (182°C) for about 5-6 minutes. They might need an additional minute if you didn't preheat the air fryer.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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!

Equipment

  • Parchment Paper, optional
  • Cooking Spray

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 289kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 11gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 0.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gSodium: 561mgPotassium: 106mgFiber: 2gCalcium: 19mgIron: 1mg

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