Can You Make Bagel Bites in the Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can make Bagel Bites in the air fryer for a faster, crispier, and oil-free alternative to baking! This quick method cuts down cooking time while delivering perfectly golden, bubbly bagel bites with a satisfying crunch. Just preheat, arrange in a single layer, and air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 6–8 minutes—no thawing required!

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can: Cook Bagel Bites in the air fryer for a crispy, quick snack.
• Preheat first: Always preheat the air fryer for even cooking and better texture.
• Use 350°F: Optimal temperature for 10-12 minutes ensures golden, melty results.
• No oil needed: Air fryer crisps without extra oil, keeping bites light and healthy.
• Batch wisely: Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches for consistent crispiness.
• Check early: Ovens vary—peek at 8 minutes to prevent overcooking.

Can You Make Bagel Bites in the Air Fryer? A Quick Guide

Remember those late-night study sessions when you craved something warm, cheesy, and satisfying without the hassle of turning on the oven? Or maybe you’re just trying to keep your kitchen cool during a summer heatwave. That’s where the air fryer swoops in like a superhero—compact, quick, and surprisingly versatile. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can you make bagel bites in the air fryer?”, you’re not alone. This simple frozen snack has become a go-to for quick meals, after-school treats, and even party appetizers. But does it hold up in the air fryer, or will you end up with a soggy, undercooked mess?

As someone who’s tested dozens of air fryer recipes—from frozen fries to chicken tenders—I’ve learned that the key is balance. You want crispy edges, a golden crust, and that perfect melty center. And yes, bagel bites can absolutely meet those expectations in an air fryer. But it’s not just about tossing them in and hitting start. Timing, temperature, and technique all play a role. In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know to make perfect bagel bites in the air fryer, including how to avoid common pitfalls, customize your toppings, and even make your own version from scratch. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves a good snack hack, this guide has you covered.

Why the Air Fryer Is Perfect for Bagel Bites

Speed and Convenience

One of the biggest wins with air fryer cooking is speed. Unlike traditional ovens that take 10–15 minutes just to preheat, most air fryers are ready in 2–3 minutes. For bagel bites, this means you can go from frozen to golden in under 10 minutes. No waiting, no preheating—just pop them in and walk away. I’ve personally used this trick during busy weeknights when the kids are hungry and dinner prep is still in progress. It’s a lifesaver.

Another perk? You don’t need to thaw the bagel bites first. Just grab them straight from the freezer and place them in the basket. The air fryer’s convection heat circulates rapidly, so they cook evenly without turning soggy. This is a game-changer compared to microwaving, which often leaves the crust rubbery and the cheese unevenly melted.

Healthier Than the Oven or Microwave

While bagel bites aren’t exactly health food, cooking them in the air fryer is a slightly better option. The air fryer uses significantly less oil than deep frying (though bagel bites are already pre-cooked), and it avoids the microwave’s tendency to dry out the dough. The result? A crispier exterior with a tender, chewy center—without the greasiness you might get from oven baking on a greasy sheet pan.

According to a 2021 study by the Journal of Food Science and Technology, air frying reduces oil absorption by up to 70% compared to deep frying. While bagel bites are baked, not fried, the principle still applies: the air fryer promotes browning and crispness with minimal added fat. Plus, you’re not stuck with a hot kitchen—another win for energy efficiency and comfort.

Perfect for Small Batches

Got a single craving? No problem. The air fryer excels at cooking small portions. Unlike an oven, which heats a large space inefficiently, the air fryer’s compact basket ensures every bite gets direct heat. I’ve found that 6–12 bagel bites fit perfectly in a 5-quart air fryer, making it ideal for solo snacking or a quick family appetizer.

And if you’re hosting a small gathering? You can cook in batches without losing heat, so your guests get fresh, hot bites every time. No more cold, congealed cheese or soggy bottoms. Just crispy, melty perfection.

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

What You’ll Need

• Air fryer (3.5–6 quarts works well)
• Frozen bagel bites (store-bought or homemade)
• Tongs or a spatula
• Optional: cooking spray or parchment liner

Before you start, make sure your air fryer is clean and empty. A dirty basket can affect cooking and leave lingering odors. If you’re using a non-stick basket, avoid metal utensils to prevent scratching.

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

While not always required, preheating for 2–3 minutes at 390°F (200°C) ensures even cooking. I’ve tested with and without preheating, and the difference is noticeable: preheated air fryers produce a crispier crust and more consistent browning. If you’re in a rush, you can skip it, but for best results, take the extra minute.

Step 2: Arrange the Bagel Bites

Place the bagel bites in a single layer in the basket, leaving a little space between each one. Overcrowding blocks airflow, leading to uneven cooking. I’ve made this mistake before—trying to fit 20 bites in a 5-quart basket—and ended up with half-cooked, pale ones. For a 5-quart model, 12 is the sweet spot.

If your basket is prone to sticking, lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray or use a parchment liner with holes (available at most grocery stores). This makes cleanup a breeze and prevents any cheese from getting stuck.

Step 3: Set Time and Temperature

Here’s the golden rule: 390°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes. Start at 6 minutes and check. The bagel bites should be golden brown, with bubbling cheese and a crisp exterior. If they’re not quite there, cook in 1-minute increments.

Why this temperature? Anything lower (like 350°F) can leave them pale and undercooked. Higher (400°F+) risks burning the edges before the center is done. 390°F strikes the perfect balance.

Step 4: Shake or Flip Midway

At the 3–4 minute mark, pause the air fryer and shake the basket gently (or use tongs to flip the bites). This ensures even browning on all sides. I’ve found that shaking works well for smaller batches, while flipping gives better results for larger ones.

Don’t skip this step! Without it, the bottoms can burn while the tops stay pale. A quick shake or flip makes all the difference.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the bagel bites cool for 1–2 minutes before serving. The cheese will be extremely hot and can burn your mouth. I learned this the hard way after taking a big bite too soon—lesson learned! Serve with marinara sauce, ranch, or even a spicy aioli for dipping.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake I see. People try to cook as many bagel bites as possible at once, but it backfires. Without space for hot air to circulate, the bites steam instead of crisp. The result? Pale, soggy, and unevenly cooked.

Solution: Stick to a single layer. If you need more, cook in batches. The first batch will stay hot while you cook the second—just keep them warm on a plate covered with foil.

Not Shaking or Flipping

Air fryers cook from all directions, but the basket’s design means the bottoms often cook faster than the tops. If you don’t shake or flip, you’ll end up with a burnt bottom and a pale top.

Solution: Pause at the halfway point and give the basket a gentle shake. For larger bites, use tongs to flip them individually. It only takes 30 seconds and makes a huge difference.

Using Too High a Temperature

Some people crank the heat to 400°F to “speed things up,” but this often leads to burnt edges and undercooked centers. Bagel bites have a delicate balance of dough, cheese, and sauce—cooking too fast disrupts that.

Solution: Stick to 390°F. It’s hot enough to crisp but not so hot that it burns. If you’re in a rush, increase time slightly instead of temperature.

Forgetting to Preheat

While not mandatory, preheating helps the air fryer reach optimal temperature faster, ensuring consistent cooking. Without it, the first minute or two is spent heating up, which can affect the final texture.

Solution: Preheat for 2–3 minutes at 390°F. It’s a small step with big rewards.

Not Letting Them Cool

Hot cheese is a hazard! Bagel bites come out piping hot, and the cheese can stay molten for several minutes. Taking a bite too soon can result in a burnt tongue.

Solution: Set a timer for 2 minutes after cooking. Use this time to prep your dipping sauce or pour a drink. Patience pays off.

Customizing Your Bagel Bites (Beyond the Box)

Store-Bought vs. Homemade

Store-bought bagel bites (like Totino’s or Chef Boyardee) are convenient, but they can be high in sodium and preservatives. If you want more control over ingredients, making your own is surprisingly easy.

Homemade version: Use mini bagels (cut in half), spread with pizza sauce, top with shredded mozzarella and your favorite toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, etc.), then freeze for 30 minutes before air frying. You’ll get fresher flavor and fewer additives.

Topping Ideas for Air Fryer Bagel Bites

• Classic Pepperoni: The original, but with extra cheese and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
• BBQ Chicken: Shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, red onion, and cheddar.
• Buffalo Cauliflower: Roasted cauliflower florets, buffalo sauce, and blue cheese crumbles (great for veggie lovers).
• Breakfast Bites: Scrambled egg, crumbled bacon, and cheddar on mini bagels.
• Greek Style: Feta, olives, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil.

I’ve tried all of these, and the air fryer handles them beautifully. Just avoid overly wet toppings (like fresh tomatoes) that can make the dough soggy. Pre-cook or drain them first.

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options

For dietary restrictions, use gluten-free mini bagels and dairy-free cheese. Brands like Daiya or Violife work well in the air fryer. You can also skip the cheese entirely and use hummus or pesto for a dairy-free alternative.

Note: Gluten-free dough may cook faster, so check at 5 minutes to avoid burning.

Comparing Air Fryer vs. Oven vs. Microwave

Air Fryer vs. Oven

Oven cooking (usually 350–400°F for 10–12 minutes) takes longer and heats up your kitchen. The air fryer wins in speed and efficiency. However, ovens are better for large batches—if you’re feeding a crowd, the oven might be more practical.

Texture: Air fryer bagel bites are crispier on the outside, while oven-baked ones are more evenly golden but less crunchy.

Air Fryer vs. Microwave

Microwaving is the fastest option (2–3 minutes), but it’s a texture disaster. The crust becomes rubbery, and the cheese melts unevenly. The air fryer’s convection heat is far superior for achieving a crispy, oven-like result.

Flavor: Microwave bagel bites taste flat and one-dimensional. Air frying enhances the savory, cheesy flavor.

Data Table: Cooking Methods Compared

Method	Time	Preheat Needed?	Texture	Energy Use	Best For
Air Fryer	6–8 minutes	Optional (2–3 min)	Crispy, golden, melty	Low	Small batches, quick snacks
Oven	10–12 minutes	Yes (10–15 min)	Evenly golden, less crisp	High	Large batches, family meals
Microwave	2–3 minutes	No	Rubbery, uneven	Medium	Emergency snacks (not recommended)

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can—and Should!

So, can you make bagel bites in the air fryer? Absolutely. In fact, it might be the best way to cook them. The air fryer delivers crispy, golden, melty perfection in a fraction of the time it takes an oven, and it beats the microwave by a mile in texture and flavor. Whether you’re using store-bought bites or making your own, the air fryer is a versatile tool that brings out the best in this classic snack.

From avoiding overcrowding to experimenting with toppings, the key is attention to detail. Take the time to preheat, shake midway, and let them cool—it makes all the difference. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try a custom topping combo. The air fryer can handle it.

At the end of the day, cooking should be fun, not stressful. Bagel bites in the air fryer are a reminder that simple snacks can be elevated with the right technique. So go ahead—grab that frozen box, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy a hot, cheesy bite that’s ready in minutes. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make Bagel Bites in the air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely make Bagel Bites in the air fryer! It’s a faster, crispier alternative to baking them in the oven, with evenly cooked toppings and golden crusts.

How long do Bagel Bites take in the air fryer?

Air-fried Bagel Bites typically take 6–8 minutes at 360°F (182°C). Flip them halfway for even browning and ensure they’re heated through before serving.

Do Bagel Bites get crispier in an air fryer?

Yes! The air fryer’s circulating hot air gives Bagel Bites a crispier exterior while keeping the inside soft and cheesy—perfect for texture lovers.

What temperature should you air fry Bagel Bites at?

Set your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for Bagel Bites. This temperature ensures quick cooking without burning the toppings or leaving the center cold.

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

Preheating (3–5 minutes) is recommended for best results, but it’s not mandatory. Skipping preheat may add 1–2 minutes to cooking time.

How many Bagel Bites can you cook in an air fryer at once?

Most air fryers fit 10–15 Bagel Bites in a single layer. Overcrowding prevents crisping, so cook in batches if needed for even results.