How Long to Cook Bagels in an Air Fryer | Crispy, Chewy & Perfect

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If you’ve ever wondered how long to cook bagels in an air fryer, you’re not alone. Whether you’re toasting frozen bagels, reheating leftovers, or making your own from scratch, mastering air fryer bagels can save you time and deliver that perfect crisp-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside texture every bagel lover craves.

In this guide, we’ll cover how long to cook bagels in an air fryer depending on the type you’re using, store-bought, frozen, or homemade, along with tips, alternatives, and expert tricks to make sure you never burn or under-toast your bagels again.

Why Air Frying Bagels Works So Well

Air fryers are basically mini convection ovens that circulate hot air around your food. This means you get evenly cooked, crisp results without excess oil or waiting for a toaster oven to preheat. When it comes to bagels, air frying revives them beautifully—crispy outer shell, warm and chewy inside, in just a few minutes.

Here’s why it works:

• Even heat circulation: Air fryers use rapid hot air movement, ensuring the bagel cooks evenly.
• Reduced moisture loss: Unlike traditional ovens, air fryers reheat quickly, preserving softness inside.
• Faster cooking: No preheat time, and most bagels are done in under 6 minutes.
• Crisp texture without drying out: Perfect for both plain and flavored bagels.

What You’ll Need

Essentials:

• Air fryer (any model with adjustable temperature)
• Bagels (fresh, refrigerated, or frozen)
• Tongs or silicone spatula (for safety)

Optional add-ons:

• Cooking spray or light brush of butter (for a shinier crust)
• Toppings (cream cheese, butter, avocado, smoked salmon, etc.)
• Parchment paper liner (optional for crumb control)

How Long to Cook Bagels in an Air Fryer

Cooking times depend on bagel type (fresh vs frozen) and desired crispiness level. Here’s a breakdown of the recommended air fryer times and temperatures.

1. Toasting Fresh or Pre-Sliced Bagels

• Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
• Time: 3–5 minutes
• Steps:
  • Slice your bagel in half.
  • Place each half, cut side up, in the air fryer basket.
  • Cook for 3–5 minutes until golden and crisp.
  • Remove with tongs, let cool slightly, and serve.

Pro Tip: For a softer bite, air fry for just 2–3 minutes. For a crunchier result, push to 5 minutes.

2. Reheating Bagels (Already Toasted or Leftover)

• Temperature: 320°F (160°C)
• Time: 2–3 minutes
• Steps:
  • Place bagel halves in the basket (no need for oil).
  • Air fry 2–3 minutes until lightly crisp and warmed through.
  • Serve immediately.

Why Lower Heat? Reheating at a slightly lower temperature prevents the bagel from becoming too dry.

3. Cooking Frozen Bagels (Uncut or Cut)

• Temperature: 360°F (182°C)
• Time: 5–7 minutes
• Steps:
  • If frozen whole, thaw for 1–2 minutes in microwave or slice carefully.
  • Place in the air fryer basket.
  • Air fry 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway through for even heating.
  • Check crispness and adjust by 1-minute increments if needed.

Pro Tip: Brushing a tiny bit of water on the surface before air frying can help revive the bagel’s softness while still crisping the outside.

4. Cooking Homemade Bagels from Scratch (Air Fryer Dough Method)

If you’re making bagels from fresh dough, baking them in the air fryer is possible!

• Temperature: 330°F (165°C)
• Time: 10–12 minutes
• Steps:
  • Shape your bagel dough and let it proof.
  • Boil briefly (30–60 seconds in hot water) for classic texture.
  • Place on lightly greased parchment paper in the air fryer basket.
  • Air fry 10–12 minutes until golden brown.
  • Let them cool slightly before serving.

Note: Cooking time can vary based on dough thickness and your air fryer model. Always check doneness after 10 minutes.

Pro Tips & Best Practices

Here are a few insider tips for perfect air fryer bagels, every time:

• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Leave space for air circulation, never overlap bagel halves.
• Preheat if needed: Some air fryers don’t require preheating, but preheating for 2 minutes at 350°F can yield more consistent results.
• Liner caution: If using parchment paper, weigh it down with the bagels; lightweight parchment can blow into the heating element.
• Add toppings after air frying: Cream cheese and spreads should go after cooking, not before, they’ll melt or burn.
• Experiment with texture: Air fry longer for crunchier edges, shorter for a softer chew.
• Use tongs: Bagels get hot quickly; silicone-tipped tongs are safest for removal.

Common Questions About Air Fryer Bagels

1. Can you put frozen bagels directly in the air fryer?

Yes! You can place frozen bagels straight into the air fryer. Just add 1–2 extra minutes to the cooking time. If possible, slice before cooking for more even heating.

2. Should I use oil or butter before air frying?

It’s optional. A light brush of butter or a quick spray of oil can help achieve a shiny, crisp crust. However, plain air frying still yields excellent results.

3. Do bagels burn easily in the air fryer?

They can if the temperature is too high or cooking time is excessive. Always start on the lower end of the time range and check doneness halfway through.

4. Can I use an air fryer toaster oven for bagels?

Absolutely. The same temperatures apply; just keep an eye on smaller or convection-style toaster air fryers, as they may cook faster.

5. What if my air fryer doesn’t have precise temperature control?

Go with the nearest setting, lower is always safer. You can increase cook time slightly rather than risk burning.

6. Can I make everything bagels or flavored bagels in an air fryer?

Yes! Just remember to add toppings after boiling but before air frying if using dough. For store-bought flavored bagels, cook as usual.

When Not to Use an Air Fryer for Bagels

While air fryers are convenient, they’re not perfect for every situation.

Avoid using an air fryer if:

• You’re making large batches (a traditional oven bakes more evenly).
• Your bagel has sticky or sugary glazes (they can melt and burn).
• You’re topping with cheese before cooking (cheese can splatter or burn before the bagel warms through).

For those cases, a toaster oven or standard oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes may be better.

Alternative Methods: Comparing Options

Method	Average Time	Texture	Energy Efficiency
Air Fryer	3–6 mins	Crispy outside, soft inside	High
Toaster	2–4 mins	Even toast but less fluffy	High
Oven	8–10 mins	Slightly chewier	Moderate
Microwave	30–60 sec	Soft, not crispy	Low efficiency (texture loss)

If you value speed + crispiness, the air fryer is the clear winner.

Conclusion: The Perfect Air Fryer Bagel Timing

So, how long to cook bagels in an air fryer?

• Fresh bagels: 3–5 minutes at 350°F
• Frozen bagels: 5–7 minutes at 360°F
• Reheating: 2–3 minutes at 320°F
• Homemade dough bagels: 10–12 minutes at 330°F

With these guidelines, you’ll get golden, chewy bagels in a fraction of the time, no toaster required. Whether you’re making a quick weekday breakfast or reviving leftover bakery bagels, the air fryer keeps things easy, efficient, and deliciously consistent.

Expert Tip: Always adjust slightly for your specific air fryer model and bagel brand. Once you find your favorite timing, note it down, you’ll never guess again!

In summary: Air frying bagels is one of the fastest, most reliable ways to enjoy that bakery-fresh texture without fuss. Try it once, and you might just retire your toaster for good.