Welcome to the ultimate guide on how to reheat bagels in an air fryer! If you’ve ever found yourself with a leftover bagel that needs a little love, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll walk you through the art of reviving your beloved bagels using the magical powers of an air fryer. So, grab your homemade bagels, frozen treasures, or even those irresistible pizza bagels, and let’s toast them to perfection. Oh, and did I mention we’ll also explore some delectable toppings like cream cheese and Greek yogurt? Get ready for a crispy, warm bagel adventure that will elevate your breakfast or snack game to new heights. Let’s dive in and turn those cold, neglected bagels into a mouthwatering delight that will make you the toast of the town!
Table of Contents
Prepare Bagel before Reheating – Pro Tips
When reheating bagels, you have two enticing paths to choose from: homemade bagels or store-bought options. As a proud bagel enthusiast, I must admit that there’s something truly gratifying about sinking your teeth into a warm, homemade bagel that you’ve lovingly crafted from scratch. The aroma filling your kitchen, the satisfaction of kneading the dough, and the pride of knowing that each bite is the result of your culinary prowess—homemade bagels offer a truly personal and rewarding experience.
Choosing the Right Type
Now, if time constraints or convenience lead you down the store-bought route, fear not! There are plenty of quality bagels available that can be just as delicious when properly reheated. Whether you’re grabbing a bag of your favorite brand or exploring the local bakery’s offerings, you can still achieve mouthwatering results.
Choose for bagels with a denser texture, such as plain, sesame, or everything bagels, as they tend to hold up well during reheating.
Avoid overly delicate bagels, like the fluffy and delicate brioche or challah varieties, as they may become too crispy or dry in the air fryer.

Slicing the Bagel Evenly
Imagine you’ve eagerly placed your bagel in the air fryer, anticipating a warm, toasty treat, only to discover that one half is perfectly crisp while the other is disappointingly undercooked. We’ve all been there, but fear not—I’m here to help you.
To ensure consistent reheating, grab a serrated knife and slice your bagel in half horizontally. Now, pay attention to this next step: aim for a clean, even cut that results in two halves of roughly equal thickness. This will ensure that both halves receive the same amount of heat during reheating, leading to a harmoniously toasted bagel.
How to Reheat Bagel in Air Fryer

Now that you have your bagel of choice and your trusty air fryer ready to go, let’s dive into the exhilarating process of reheating your bagel to crispy perfection. Get ready to witness the magic unfold right before your eyes!
STEP 1:
To kick off this gastronomic journey, preheating your air fryer is essential. This step ensures that the air fryer reaches the optimal temperature for that ideal combination of crispy exterior and soft interior. Consult your air fryer’s instruction manual for the recommended preheating time and temperature, but a general rule of thumb is around 350°F (175°C).
STEP 2:
Once your air fryer is preheated, it’s time to unleash its full potential by adjusting the temperature and time settings. As a starting point, aim for a temperature of 325°F (163°C) and a reheating time of 3-5 minutes.
STEP 3:
Gently placing your bagel in the air fryer. Carefully arrange the bagel halves, cut side up, in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are evenly spaced to allow for proper airflow and even reheating.
STEP 4:
The reheating time can vary depending on your desired level of crispiness and the bagel’s initial temperature. As a general guideline, start with a conservative time, such as 3 minutes, and then add additional time if needed. Remember, it’s better to slightly undercook than to overcook and risk losing that delightful chewiness.
STEP 5:
Once the timer goes off, using oven mitts or tongs, carefully remove the hot bagel from the air fryer. Give it a gentle squeeze to check for the desired texture—crispy on the outside, yet soft and chewy on the inside. If you prefer a slightly darker or crisper exterior, you can always pop it back in the air fryer for a minute or two, but exercise caution to avoid overcooking.
STEP 6:
Now that your bagel has been resurrected to its former glory, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Spread on your favorite cream cheese or indulge in creative toppings like Greek yogurt, avocado, or smoked salmon. The possibilities are endless! Pair your perfectly reheated bagel with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of juice for the ultimate breakfast or snack experience.

Tips for Reheating Different Types of Bagels
Bagels come in various flavors and textures, and each type requires a slightly different approach when reheating in an air fryer. Here are some expert tips to ensure the best results for different types of bagels:
Pizza Bagels:
Ingredients:
- Plain bagels
- Tomato sauce
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, diced bell peppers, mushrooms)
Instructions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the bagels in half horizontally.
- Spread a layer of tomato sauce on each bagel half.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Add your preferred toppings.
- Place the pizza bagels in the air fryer basket, cut side up.
- Reheat for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before enjoying your homemade pizza bagels.
Cream Cheese Stuffed Bagels:
Ingredients:
- Bagels of your choice
- Cream cheese (flavored or plain)
- Optional toppings (e.g., chives, smoked salmon, everything bagel seasoning)
Instructions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 325°F (163°C).
- Slice the bagels in half horizontally.
- Spread a generous amount of cream cheese on the bottom half of each bagel.
- Add any desired toppings, such as chives, smoked salmon, or everything bagel seasoning.
- Place the top halves of the bagels back on the cream cheese to make a sandwich.
- Transfer the cream cheese stuffed bagels to the air fryer basket.
- Reheat for 3-4 minutes or until the bagels are warmed through and slightly toasted.
- Carefully remove from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two before indulging in these creamy delights.
Greek Yogurt Bagels:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- Optional toppings (e.g., sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onion flakes)
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt.
- Knead the mixture until a smooth dough forms.
- Divide the dough into equal portions and shape them into bagel rounds.
- Preheat the air fryer to 325°F (163°C).
- Place the bagels in the air fryer basket, ensuring they have enough space between them.
- Sprinkle your preferred toppings over the bagels.
- Reheat for 10-12 minutes or until the bagels are golden brown and cooked through.
- Allow them to cool slightly before enjoying these homemade Greek yogurt bagels.
Serving and Enjoying Reheated Bagels
Reheating bagels in an air fryer not only brings them back to life but also opens up a world of delicious possibilities. Here are some delightful ways to serve and enjoy your reheated bagels:
Classic Cream Cheese Spread:
- Spread a generous amount of cream cheese on your reheated bagel halves.
- Choose from a variety of flavors such as plain, scallion, or strawberry for an extra burst of taste.
- Optional: Add a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning or fresh herbs like dill or chives for added flavor.
Savory Bagel Sandwich:
- Transform your reheated bagel into a mouthwatering sandwich.
- Fill it with your favorite deli meats, such as turkey, ham, or roast beef.
- Layer on some crunchy lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and a dollop of tangy mustard or mayo.
- Optional: Melt some cheese on top for a melty, gooey delight.
Gourmet Bagel Toppings:
- Elevate your reheated bagel with gourmet toppings.
- Spread a layer of rich and creamy avocado, and top it with sliced smoked salmon, red onion, and capers.
- Alternatively, top your bagel with thinly sliced prosciutto, arugula, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a fancy flavor combination.
Sweet Bagel Treats:
- Indulge your sweet tooth with delightful sweet bagel variations.
- Spread Nutella, peanut butter, or almond butter on your reheated bagel for a decadent treat.
- For a fruity twist, try spreading cream cheese and adding fresh berries or sliced bananas on top.
Bagel Chips and Dips:
- Repurpose your reheated bagels into crispy bagel chips.
- Slice the bagels into thin rounds, brush them with olive oil, and sprinkle with desired seasonings.
- Air fry the slices at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until they turn golden and crispy.
- Serve the bagel chips with your favorite dips like hummus, spinach-artichoke dip, or salsa.
Bagel French Toast:
- Transform your reheated bagel into a delightful breakfast or brunch dish.
- Slice the bagel in half horizontally and dip each side into a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, and cinnamon.
- Cook the bagel halves on a griddle or in a skillet until golden brown on both sides.
- Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream.

FAQs
Can I reheat frozen bagels in an air fryer?
Yes, you can reheat frozen bagels in an air fryer. Follow the same steps as reheating fresh bagels, but increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they thaw and heat through completely.
What is the recommended temperature and time for reheating bagels in an air fryer?
The recommended temperature for reheating bagels in an air fryer is around 325-350°F (163-175°C). The cooking time can vary but usually ranges from 3-7 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the bagel.
How do I prevent my bagel from becoming too crispy or dry when reheating?
To prevent your bagel from becoming overly crispy or dry, you can try reducing the cooking time or adjusting the temperature to a lower setting. Keep a close eye on the bagel while reheating and remove it from the air fryer once it reaches your desired texture.
Can I reheat a sliced bagel in an air fryer?
Yes, you can reheat sliced bagels in an air fryer. Place the sliced bagel halves cut side up in the air fryer basket and follow the same reheating instructions as for whole bagels.
Can I reheat bagels with cream cheese in an air fryer?
It is not recommended to reheat bagels with cream cheese in an air fryer. Cream cheese has a low smoke point, and the high temperatures of an air fryer may cause it to melt and create a mess. Instead, reheat the bagel in the air fryer and spread cream cheese on it after reheating.
Can I use an air fryer to reheat homemade bagels?
Absolutely! An air fryer is an excellent option for reheating homemade bagels. Follow the same steps and temperature guidelines mentioned earlier for reheating store-bought bagels.
How can I keep the bagel toppings from burning when reheating in an air fryer?
To prevent toppings from burning, you can add them after reheating the bagel. Apply cream cheese, butter, or other spreads once the bagel is warm and ready to be enjoyed.
Can I reheat gluten-free or specialty bagels in an air fryer?
Yes, you can reheat gluten-free or specialty bagels in an air fryer. Follow the same reheating instructions, adjusting the time and temperature as needed based on the specific characteristics of the bagel.
Can I reheat day-old bagels in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fryers work well for reheating day-old bagels. Follow the reheating instructions provided earlier, and your day-old bagel will regain its freshness and flavor.
Can I use an oven instead of an air fryer to reheat bagels?
Yes, you can use an oven to reheat bagels. Preheat the oven to around 350°F (175°C), place the bagel on a baking sheet, and warm it for 5-7 minutes or until desired temperature is reached.
Wrap-up,
To conclude, it is clear that the proper reheating of a bagel can be achieved with success by using an air fryer. The benefits range from better-tasting results to healthier options. Moreover, you have the freedom of assembling your own bagel sandwich or experimenting with different bagels and topping flavors without interrupting the perfection of the reheated bagel. All in all, enjoy your perfectly reheated bagel with no accompaniments or as a part of your favorite sandwich – there is no bad option here! How will you craft your dream bagel? What are some new combinations you could experiment with? What is your recipe? Let me know your comment below and together we can master the art of reheating.
EXCITING AIR FRYER RECIPES TO REHEAT YOUR LEFTOVERS YOU’LL LOVE:
How to Reheat Bagel in Air Fryer (Summary Recipe)
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer
- 1 Serrated knife for slicing the bagels evenly
Materials
- 2 bagels Bagels (homemade or store-bought)
- Toppings Optional toppings and spreads such as cream cheese, butter, deli meats, vegetables, and condiments
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to the recommended temperature (350°F or 175°C).
- Slice the bagels evenly using a serrated knife.
- Place the bagel halves in a single layer inside the air fryer basket.
- Set the cooking time based on the size and thickness of the bagel, typically 6 minutes.
- Monitor the reheating process closely, adjusting the time if needed, to achieve the desired level of crispiness and warmth.
- Once reheated, remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool slightly.
- Customize your reheated bagels with your favorite toppings and spreads, such as cream cheese, butter, or any other desired ingredients.
- Serve and enjoy the warm and delicious reheated bagels.