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Bagels in the Air Fryer: A Delightful and Effortless Treat

When it comes to breakfast or a quick snack, few foods can compete with the soft, chewy deliciousness of a bagel. Traditionally boiled and baked, bagels have a distinct texture and flavour that make them beloved around the globe. However, if you’re looking to save time without sacrificing taste, cooking bagels in an air fryer may just be your new go-to method.

Why Choose the Air Fryer?

The air fryer has rapidly become a kitchen staple due to its convenience and versatility. It cooks food by circulating hot air around it, resulting in a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. This makes it an excellent way to prepare bagels, providing a wonderful crunch while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. Additionally, the air fryer saves on cooking time compared to traditional methods.

Preparing Bagels for the Air Fryer

Whether you’re using store-bought bagels or making them from scratch, preparing them for the air fryer is straightforward. Here’s how to do it:

1. Select Your Bagels: If you prefer the classic flavour, opt for plain bagels, but feel free to experiment with everything, sesame, or poppy seed varieties.

2. Slice Them: If your bagels aren’t pre-sliced, cut each one in half horizontally. This will help them cook evenly in the air fryer.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating is essential for achieving that perfectly crispy texture. Set your air fryer to around 170°C (340°F) and let it warm up for about 3-5 minutes.

4. Add Toppings: This is the perfect time to add your favourite toppings. Whether it’s a simple spread of cream cheese, a layer of avocado, or the hearty addition of smoked salmon, go wild!

Cooking the Bagels

Once your air fryer is preheated, it’s time to cook those bagels. Here’s a simple method:

1. Arrange the Bagels: Place the bagel halves in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. This allows for proper air circulation and a perfect result.

2. Cooking Time: Air fry the bagels for about 5-8 minutes. Keep an eye on them as cooking times can vary depending on the specific model of air fryer and how crispy you prefer your bagels.

3. Check for Doneness: After about 5 minutes, check the bagels. You want them to be golden brown on the outside. If they need more time, pop them back in for an additional minute or two.

Enjoying Your Air-Fried Bagels

Once the bagels are cooked to your liking, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before topping them. As you bite into your air-fried bagel, you’ll be treated to a delightful contrast of textures: a crunchy exterior that gives way to a soft, chewy centre.

Versatility and Variations

One of the best things about air-fried bagels is their versatility. You can try various toppings and fillings for breakfast, lunch, or even dinner. Here are a few ideas:

• Breakfast Bagel: Top with scrambled eggs and a slice of cheese for a hearty morning meal.
• Mediterranean Delight: Add hummus, sliced cucumber, and cherry tomatoes for a fresh, healthy snack.
• Sweet Treat: Spread with soft cheese and drizzle with honey for a delightful dessert.

Final Thoughts

Air-frying bagels is not only a quick and convenient method, but it also yields delicious results that rival traditional baking methods. Whether you’re in a rush in the morning or fancy a midday treat, air-fried bagels are an excellent choice. With endless topping options and flavours, they can easily be customised to suit any taste preference. So, dust off your air fryer and treat yourself to this delightful twist on a classic favourite!