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Short, Catchy Intro

So you are craving something tasty but too lazy to spend forever in the kitchen, huh? Same. These 3 ingredient Greek yogurt bagels are my go to for when I want bagel vibes with minimal drama. They puff up, get golden, and taste like you actually tried. Bonus points if you pretend you spent hours mastering artisan techniques. FYI I will not judge if you eat two with cream cheese before anyone else gets a bite.

If you want an even fluffier spin later, you can peek at this version of fluffy Greek yogurt bagels to compare techniques fluffy Greek yogurt bagels. Just saying.

Why This Recipe is Awesome

Why is this recipe awesome? Because it gives you bagels without the baggage. No yeast drama. No waiting for dough to rise. No complicated chemistry class required. You mix, shape, cook, and eat. Simple.

It also plays well with improvisation. Want a sesame seed crown? Toss them on. Want cinnamon sugar? Go sweet. Want to pretend you are a New Yorker for lunch? Top with lox and act natural.

Best part Most people get perfect results on the first try. Yes really. This recipe is idiot proof and forgiving. Even if your shaping game is weak, the air fryer or oven will make them look presentable. IMO this is the weekend victory bread you did not know you needed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup Greek yogurt
- Use plain full fat or low fat. If you use super watery yogurt drain it a bit first.
1 cup self rising flour
- If you cannot find it see substitutions below.
1 large egg for egg wash
- This gives the bagels that shiny, golden top. You can skip it if you want a more rustic look.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 350 F 175 C. Give it a few minutes to warm up so your bagels cook evenly.
In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt and self rising flour until a dough forms. Stir with a spoon, then use hands. Don’t overmix. Aim for a soft, slightly sticky dough.
Divide the dough into equal parts and shape each part into a bagel. Roll into a ball, poke a hole in the center, then widen the hole with your finger. Make them uniform if you care about appearances.
Place the bagels in the air fryer basket. Leave space between them so hot air can circulate. Crowding equals sad sogginess.
Brush the tops with a beaten egg. This step is optional but it gives color and shine. You can add seeds now if you want.
Air fry for about 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Check at 10 minutes and adjust if needed. They should sound a bit hollow when tapped.
Let them cool slightly before serving. They firm up as they cool so resist the urge to rip one open immediately. Enjoy warm.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Thinking you do not need to preheat the air fryer or oven. Rookie mistake. Preheat it.
Adding too much flour because the dough looks sticky. The dough should stay a little tacky. Overflouring makes tough bagels.
Making tiny holes and expecting big bagels. Make the hole decent. They shrink a bit while cooking.
Skipping the egg wash and crying later when they look pale. If you want golden, do the egg wash. If you are going for rustic, skip it. No judgement.
Overcrowding the basket. If you want even browning, give each bagel air and personal space.

Alternatives & Substitutions

No self rising flour What now Did you forget to buy it No problem. Mix 1 cup all purpose flour with 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder and a pinch of salt to mimic self rising flour. That works nicely.
Dairy free Use a thick non dairy yogurt like coconut or soy. Texture changes slightly but you still get bagel vibes.
Egg wash alternatives If you avoid eggs brush the tops with milk, non dairy milk, or a thin smear of olive oil for color.
Oven method Not everyone owns an air fryer. Bake at 375 F 190 C on a lined baking sheet for about 15 to 18 minutes until golden. Flip them halfway for even coloring.
Flavor tricks Want herbs Add chopped rosemary and garlic powder to the dough. Want sweet Try a pinch of cinnamon and a sprinkle of sugar on top. I personally recommend everything bagel seasoning because it is emotionally satisfying.
Gluten free Use a gluten free self rising mix but expect a slightly different texture. Still delicious though. Your mileage may vary.

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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q Why did my dough feel super sticky even after adding the flour Do I need more flour
A Sometimes Greek yogurt moisture content varies. Add flour a teaspoon at a time until it is manageable. Do not dump a cup in or you will end up with rock bagels.

Q Can I use flavored Greek yogurt like vanilla
A Sure you can. Want sweet bagels Go for it. Keep in mind savory toppings might clash with vanilla. Don’t blame me if you get weird looks.

Q Can I freeze these for later
A Absolutely. Freeze fully cooled bagels in a zip top bag. Reheat in a toaster or oven for best results. They hold up well.

Q How many bagels does this recipe make
A Expect about 4 small to medium bagels. Make them bigger and you get fewer. Pro tip Make mini bagel sandwiches for snack attack scenarios.

Q Can I skip the egg wash
A Yes you can. They will brown less and look more rustic. If presentation matters, use the egg wash.

Q Are these authentic chewy bagels like from a bagel shop
A Not exactly. These are quick and awesome bagels with a softer, more tender crumb. If you want NYC level chew you need yeast and a longer process. But this version is fast and tasty.

Q Can I add cheese to the dough
A Totally. Fold grated cheese into the dough for a rich twist. Pepper jack brings heat, cheddar brings nostalgia.

Final Thoughts

You just made bagels with three ingredients and zero drama. Pretty cool right Even if you burned one, you learned something and ate something warm. Keep experimenting with toppings and flavors. These bagels make great breakfast sandwiches, quick snacks, or emergency dinner when pasta feels too heavy. Remember to let them cool a bit so they set properly and to preheat your air fryer or oven. You got this.

Now go impress someone or yourself with your new culinary skills. Eat one warm with cream cheese and crow like a triumphant human. You have earned it.

Conclusion

If you are hungry for more three ingredient bagel inspiration check out this handy guide 3-Ingredient Bagels (Fast and EASY) – Yummy Toddler Food or try a slightly different take with these quick recipes 3 Ingredient Bagels: 30 Minutes, Easy and Delicious | Andy’s East …