- Activate Yeast:
- In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- Prepare Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Let Dough Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Divide and Shape Dough:
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it slightly to form a disc. Use your fingers to poke a hole in the center and stretch the dough to create a bagel shape.
- Air Fry Bagels:
- Place the shaped bagels in the preheated air fryer basket. Be sure to leave some space between them. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Brush with Egg Wash:
- Brush the tops of the bagels with beaten egg. This will give them a shiny finish.
- Add Toppings (Optional):
- Sprinkle the bagels with your choice of toppings, such as everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds.
- Air Fry Until Golden:
- Air fry the bagels for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Flip them halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Allow the Air Fryer Homemade Bagels to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy them with your favorite spreads or as the base for a delicious bagel sandwich.
These homemade bagels are a fun and tasty treat that you can customize with your favorite toppings. The air fryer provides a quick and efficient way to achieve a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and chewy.