Can I Cook Bagel Bites in the Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can cook Bagel Bites in the air fryer for a faster, crispier result than the microwave or oven. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), arrange the bites in a single layer, and cook for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway, to achieve golden, bubbly perfection. This method saves time, enhances texture, and delivers delicious, evenly cooked Bagel Bites every time.

Key Takeaways

• Cook directly from frozen: No thawing needed—air fry straight from the freezer.
• Preheat for crispiness: Always preheat air fryer for evenly crispy bagel bites.
• Use 375°F (190°C): Optimal temperature ensures golden crust without burning.
• Flip halfway through: Flip bites at 5 minutes for uniform browning.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy hot for best texture and melted cheese.
• Clean basket after use: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup.

Can I Cook Bagel Bites in the Air Fryer? A Quick Guide

Let’s be honest—bagel bites are one of those guilty pleasures we all secretly adore. They’re quick, cheesy, and satisfying in a way only a warm, bite-sized snack can be. But if you’ve ever stood in front of your oven waiting for them to bake, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Can I cook bagel bites in the air fryer instead?” I’ve been there. In fact, I’ve probably asked that question at least ten times while staring at my air fryer like it holds the secret to faster, crispier snacks.

The good news? Yes, you absolutely can cook bagel bites in the air fryer—and honestly, it might just be the best way to do it. I discovered this after a particularly lazy Sunday when I didn’t want to preheat the oven just for a small batch. I popped a few frozen bagel bites into my air fryer, set it to 380°F, and 10 minutes later, I had golden, bubbly, slightly crispy bites that were better than anything I’d made in the oven. Since then, I’ve experimented with timing, brands, and even toppings, and I’m here to share what I’ve learned—without the fluff, just the facts, tips, and a few laughs along the way.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Bagel Bites

If you’re new to air frying, let me paint a picture: imagine your convection oven’s cooler, more efficient cousin. It uses rapid hot air circulation to crisp food from all sides without needing a lot of oil. That means less mess, less waiting, and more crunch. And when it comes to frozen snacks like bagel bites, the air fryer shines.

Faster Than the Oven (Seriously)

Ovens take time—sometimes 10–15 minutes just to preheat. Then you add 12–15 minutes of baking. That’s nearly half an hour for a snack. With an air fryer, you skip the preheat. Most models heat up in 2–3 minutes. Total cook time? Usually under 12 minutes. That’s a 50% time savings, and when you’re hungry, every minute counts.

Crispier, Not Soggy

Traditional baking can leave bagel bites with a slightly soft, doughy exterior. The air fryer, on the other hand, gives you a light crisp on the outside while keeping the inside soft and cheesy. It’s the perfect balance. Think of it like a mini deep fryer—but without the oil or guilt. The circulating air ensures even cooking, so no more “hot spots” or undercooked centers.

Energy Efficient and Easy to Clean

Air fryers use less electricity than full-sized ovens. They’re also easier to clean—just wipe down the basket or toss it in the dishwasher (if it’s dishwasher-safe). No scrubbing greasy baking sheets or dealing with oven spills. For busy parents, students, or anyone who hates cleanup, this is a win.

Perfect for Small Batches

Got a craving for just 4–6 bagel bites? No need to heat up the whole oven. The air fryer lets you cook exactly what you need, when you need it. This is especially helpful for dorm rooms, small apartments, or when you’re meal prepping for one.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Bagel Bites in the Air Fryer

Ready to try it? Here’s the simple, foolproof method I use every time. It works for most frozen bagel bite brands, including Totino’s, Bagel Bites (the original), and store-brand versions.

What You’ll Need

• Frozen bagel bites (any flavor)
• Air fryer (basket or oven-style)
• Non-stick cooking spray (optional)
• Tongs or silicone spatula
• Paper towel (to blot excess oil, if needed)

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer (Optional but Recommended)

While air fryers don’t require preheating, doing so for 2–3 minutes at 380°F (193°C) helps achieve a more consistent cook. Think of it like warming up before a workout—your appliance performs better when it’s ready.

Step 2: Arrange the Bagel Bites

Place the frozen bagel bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd. Leave a little space between each bite so air can circulate. If you’re cooking more than 8–10 bites, cook in batches. Overcrowding leads to steaming, not crisping.

Pro tip: Lightly spray the basket with non-stick spray if you’re worried about sticking. I rarely do this with frozen bagel bites, but it’s helpful if you’ve thawed them slightly or are using a brand with a sticky coating.

Step 3: Set Temperature and Time

Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and cook for 8–10 minutes. I start with 8 minutes, then check. Most bagel bites are ready at 9 minutes, but it depends on your model and how crispy you like them.

Step 4: Flip or Shake (Halfway Through)

At the 4–5 minute mark, use tongs or gently shake the basket to flip the bagel bites. This ensures even browning and prevents one side from getting too dark. It’s like flipping pancakes—just a quick nudge is enough.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

After 8 minutes, open the basket and peek. The tops should be golden brown, and the cheese inside should be melted. If they’re still pale or the cheese is solid, add 1–2 more minutes. Remember: you can always add time, but you can’t uncook them.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Bagel bites are hot inside—like “I just burned my tongue” hot. Let them sit for 1–2 minutes before eating. This also helps the cheese set slightly, so it’s not a molten lava trap. Serve with marinara, ranch, or even a spicy aioli for extra flavor.

Timing and Temperature Guide for Different Brands

Not all bagel bites are created equal. Some are larger, some have more cheese, and some have thicker crusts. Here’s a quick reference guide based on my testing with popular brands and air fryer models (Ninja, Cosori, Instant Vortex, and Philips).

Standard Bagel Bites (Totino’s, Original)

• Quantity: 6–8 bites
• Temperature: 380°F (193°C)
• Time: 9 minutes
• Result: Crispy outside, gooey inside. Perfect.

Cheesy Loaded or 3-Meat Varieties

• Quantity: 6 bites
• Temperature: 380°F (193°C)
• Time: 10 minutes
• Result: Extra cheese means more browning. Watch closely after 9 minutes to avoid burning.

Mini Bagel Bites (Smaller Portions)

• Quantity: 10–12 bites
• Temperature: 375°F (190°C)
• Time: 7–8 minutes
• Result: Cooks faster due to size. Shaking halfway is key.

Store-Brand or Generic Versions

• Quantity: 6–8 bites
• Temperature: 380°F (193°C)
• Time: 8–10 minutes
• Result: Varies by thickness. Start at 8 minutes and adjust.

Thawed (Not Frozen) Bagel Bites

• Temperature: 375°F (190°C)
• Time: 6–7 minutes
• Result: Less risk of burning, but still crispy. Great for meal prep.

Note: Always check the packaging for manufacturer instructions. But in my experience, the air fryer method beats the oven in texture and speed every time.

Tips for the Best Air-Fried Bagel Bites

After dozens of batches, I’ve picked up a few tricks that take bagel bites from “good” to “I can’t stop eating these.” Here’s how to level up your snack game.

Don’t Skip the Flip

Flipping or shaking halfway ensures even heat distribution. Without it, one side will be pale and doughy, while the other is golden. A quick flip at 4–5 minutes makes all the difference.

Use a Light Oil Spray (Optional)

If your bagel bites seem dry or you want extra crispiness, lightly spritz them with olive oil, avocado oil, or non-stick spray before cooking. Just a quick mist is enough. I do this when I want a more “homemade” look and feel.

Blot After Cooking

Some bagel bites release a little oil during cooking. After removing them, place them on a paper towel for 30 seconds to absorb excess grease. This keeps them from being greasy and improves texture.

Add Toppings After Cooking

Want to jazz them up? Add fresh basil, red pepper flakes, or grated Parmesan after cooking. Don’t add toppings before—they’ll burn or fall off. I love a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for extra crunch.

Experiment with Dips

Marinara is classic, but try:

• Ranch dressing with a dash of hot sauce
• Garlic aioli
• Buffalo sauce + blue cheese
• Pesto for an Italian twist

Dipping is half the fun!

Freeze Leftovers (If Any)

Got extras? Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a bag. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes. They’ll taste almost as good as fresh.

Clean the Basket Right Away

Cheese can stick if you let it sit. Wash the basket with warm, soapy water or pop it in the dishwasher (if safe). A clean air fryer means better-tasting food next time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best air fryer can’t save you from a few rookie errors. Here are the top mistakes I’ve made (and seen others make)—and how to avoid them.

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake. When you pack too many bagel bites in, they steam instead of crisp. They’ll be soft, pale, and disappointing. Rule of thumb: leave at least 1/2 inch between each bite.

Not Checking Midway

Air fryers vary in power. A Ninja might cook faster than a Cosori. Always open the basket at the halfway point to check progress. If they’re browning too fast, lower the temp by 10–15°F for the second half.

Using the Wrong Temperature

Too high (400°F+), and the outside burns before the inside heats. Too low (350°F), and they’ll be soft and undercooked. 380°F is the sweet spot for most frozen snacks.

Forgetting to Shake or Flip

Air fryers circulate heat from the top. Without flipping, the bottom stays pale. Even a gentle shake helps. Don’t skip this step!

Not Letting Them Cool

I know, they smell amazing. But biting into a fresh bagel bite is like biting into a hot coal. The cheese is molten. Wait 1–2 minutes. Your tongue will thank you.

Using Non-Air-Fryer-Safe Containers

Don’t try to cook bagel bites in a silicone mold or paper cup unless it’s specifically labeled as air fryer-safe. The high heat can damage some materials or block airflow.

Data Table: Air Fryer vs. Oven for Bagel Bites

To help you see the difference clearly, here’s a side-by-side comparison of cooking bagel bites in the air fryer versus a conventional oven.

Factor	Air Fryer	Conventional Oven
Preheat Time	2–3 minutes (optional)	10–15 minutes (required)
Cook Time	8–10 minutes	12–15 minutes
Total Time	10–13 minutes	22–30 minutes
Texture	Crispy outside, soft inside	Softer, sometimes doughy
Energy Use	Low (uses less electricity)	High (heats entire oven cavity)
Cleanup	Easy (basket is dishwasher-safe)	Harder (baking sheet, oven spills)
Best For	Small batches, quick snacks	Large batches, multiple trays
Even Cooking	Excellent (with flip/shake)	Good (depends on rack position)

As you can see, the air fryer wins in speed, texture, and efficiency—especially for small servings. The oven still has its place for big family meals, but for a quick bite? Air fryer all the way.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can—And Should!

So, can you cook bagel bites in the air fryer? Absolutely. Not only can you, but you probably should. It’s faster, crispier, and way more convenient than using the oven. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves a good snack, the air fryer turns frozen bagel bites into a golden, cheesy delight in under 12 minutes.

From my kitchen to yours: try it once, and I guarantee you’ll never go back. I’ve even started using the air fryer for other frozen snacks—mini tacos, mozzarella sticks, even chicken nuggets. But bagel bites? They’re still my go-to. There’s something magical about that warm, cheesy center with a slightly crisp shell. And now, I get to enjoy it faster, with less mess, and without waiting for the oven to heat up.

So go ahead—pop those bites in, set the timer, and enjoy. And if you discover a new favorite dip or topping along the way? Let me know. I’m always looking for ways to make snack time even better. After all, life’s too short for soggy bagel bites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook Bagel Bites in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook Bagel Bites in the air fryer for a crispier texture and faster results than baking. Just preheat the air fryer and follow the adjusted time and temperature guidelines.

What’s the best way to cook Bagel Bites in an air fryer?

Arrange the Bagel Bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spray lightly with oil, and cook at 360°F (182°C) for 5–7 minutes. Flip halfway through for even browning.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer for Bagel Bites?

Preheating the air fryer for 3–5 minutes ensures even cooking and a crispier crust. This step is especially important for frozen Bagel Bites cooked in the air fryer.

Can I cook frozen Bagel Bites in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Cooking frozen Bagel Bites in the air fryer requires no thawing—just add 1–2 minutes to the cook time. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

How long do Bagel Bites take in the air fryer?

Bagel Bites typically take 5–8 minutes in the air fryer at 360°F (182°C), depending on your model and desired crispiness. Shake the basket halfway for even heating.

Can I cook Bagel Bites in the air fryer with other foods?

It’s best to cook Bagel Bites alone to avoid overcrowding, but you can pair them with similar-sized items like mozzarella sticks. Just ensure proper spacing for airflow.