Do you love bagels but find it challenging to make them at home? Look no further! In this article, we will explore how to make bagels in an air fryer, offering you a delicious and convenient alternative to traditional methods. Bagels are typically boiled before baking, but with the help of an air fryer, you can skip this step and still achieve the perfect texture and taste. So, let’s dive into the world of bagel making and discover this innovative technique!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we embark on our bagel-making journey, let’s gather the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you will need:
1. 2 and ¼ cups of all-purpose flour.
2. 1 tablespoon of sugar.
3. 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast.
4. ¾ teaspoon of salt.
5. ⅔ cup of warm water.
Mixing the Dough
Now that you have assembled all your ingredients, it’s time to mix the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, active dry yeast, and salt. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they are well incorporated.
Next, slowly add the warm water to the dry mixture. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, knead the dough until it forms a soft and slightly sticky consistency. If the dough feels too dry, you can add a little more water, but be cautious not to make it too wet.
Rising the Dough
Once you have achieved the desired dough consistency, it’s time to let it rise. Take a clean bowl and lightly coat it with oil or cooking spray. Transfer the dough to the greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for approximately one hour. The dough should double in size during this time.
Shaping the Bagels
After the dough has risen, it’s time to shape your bagels. Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking.
Take the risen dough and gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into six equal portions, using a sharp knife or a dough scraper.
To shape the bagels, take one portion of the dough and roll it into a long rope, measuring approximately 8-10 inches in length. Once you have your rope, bring the two ends together and overlap them by about 1 inch. Press both ends together firmly to seal the dough.
Air Frying the Bagels
Your bagels are ready to be air-fried! Place them in the preheated air fryer basket, leaving some space between each one for expansion. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the bagels in batches.
Air fry the bagels at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to avoid any overcooking. Once they are done, remove the bagels from the air fryer basket and let them cool on a wire rack.
Optional Toppings and Variations
Bagels are incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor them to your personal taste preferences. Here are some popular toppings and variations you can try when making bagels in an air fryer:
1. Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle a handful of sesame seeds on top of the shaped bagel dough before air frying. This will give your bagels a crunchy and nutty flavor.
2. Cinnamon Sugar: Mix together some cinnamon and sugar, then sprinkle this mixture on the bagels before air frying. The result will be a sweet and fragrant treat reminiscent of cinnamon rolls.
3. Everything Bagel Topping: Combine sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion flakes, and coarse salt. Sprinkle this mixture over the bagels before air frying to create an “everything bagel” flavor.
4. Whole Wheat Bagels: Substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to create a healthier alternative. The texture may be slightly denser, but the taste will still be delectable.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your bagels are fresh out of the air fryer, you might be wondering how best to enjoy them. Here are a few serving suggestions:
1. Classic Cream Cheese: Spread a generous portion of cream cheese on your freshly toasted bagel for a simple and satisfying combination.
2. Smoked Salmon and Avocado: Layer thinly sliced smoked salmon and creamy avocado on your bagel for a luxurious and flavorful bite.
3. Bacon and Egg: Fry up some crispy bacon and cook an egg to your liking. Assemble them between your sliced bagel halves for a hearty breakfast sandwich.
4. Veggie Delight: Load up your bagel with fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomato, lettuce, and red onion. Add a dollop of hummus or tzatziki for an extra burst of flavor.
In Conclusion
Making bagels in an air fryer offers a delicious and convenient alternative to traditional methods. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can achieve bakery-quality bagels right in the comfort of your own home. Whether you prefer a classic plain bagel or something more adventurous, the air fryer method provides an easy and efficient way to enjoy these delectable treats. So, grab your ingredients, dust off your air fryer, and embark on a bagel-making adventure that will surely impress your taste buds!