By Julien Dubois 
Craving a quick, tasty snack? Frozen bagel bites are the perfect solution! But how long should you cook frozen bagel bites in an air fryer to achieve that perfect crispiness? Look no further cuz we’ve got the easiest recipe just for you!! Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or entertaining guests, cooking frozen bagel bites in the air fryer is the way to go for that ideal balance of crunch and gooey cheese.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff so that you also know how to make those bagel bites perfectly crispy every time!
The Benefits of Air Frying Frozen Bagel Bites
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s quickly talk about why the air fryer is your best friend when making bagel bites. Traditional oven methods can take longer and often require more oil, but air frying offers several advantages:
- Faster Cooking Time: Air fryers cook food more quickly, which is perfect for busy individuals or those with a craving that just can’t wait.
- Crispy Texture: The circulating hot air ensures that your bagel bites come out crispy on the outside while staying soft on the inside, unlike oven-baking.
- Minimal Oil: You don’t need to worry about deep frying or excess oil, making air frying a healthier alternative to other cooking methods.
Step-by-Step Instructions on How Long to Cook Bagel Bites in Air Fryer
The answer to how long to cook bagel bites in air fryer depends on a couple of factors: the size of your bagel bites and the model of your air fryer. But fear not! Below, we’ve laid out a standard air fryer method to help you get it right every time.
Preheat (Optional but Recommended)
While preheating your air fryer isn’t strictly necessary, it’s highly recommended for best results. Preheating ensures that the hot air is evenly distributed right from the start, which leads to more consistent cooking.
- Preheat your air fryer to 360°F–380°F for about 3-4 minutes before adding your bagel bites.
Arrange Your Bagel Bites
For the crispiest, most evenly cooked bagel bites, it’s important to avoid overcrowding. Make sure you arrange the bagel bites in a single, even layer in the air fryer basket. This allows for proper air circulation, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Tip: Lightly mist the basket with non-stick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal later.
Cook the Bagel Bites
Once your air fryer is preheated and your bagel bites are arranged in the basket, it’s time to cook!
- Air fry for 5–8 minutes at 360°F–380°F. Start checking them around the 4-5 minute mark, as cooking times can vary based on your air fryer model and how crispy you like your bagel bites.
Shake for Even Cooking
To ensure the bagel bites cook evenly on all sides, gently shake the basket halfway through the cooking time, around the 3-4 minute mark. This helps promote even browning and prevents them from sticking together.
Finish and Check for Doneness
Your bagel bites are ready when:
- The cheese is melted and bubbly.
- The sides of the bagels are brownish and look crispy.
- The internal temperature has reached 165°F to ensure food safety.
- Use a meat thermometer if you want to be extra precise with the temperature.
Serve Your Bagel Bites
Once your bagel bites are perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve! Carefully remove the bagel bites from the air fryer using tongs or a small spatula, as the cheese and sauce will be extremely hot. Let it cool for a while before you savour it.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to cook frozen bagel bites in an air fryer?
Frozen bagel bites typically take 5–8 minutes at 360°F–380°F in the air fryer. However, cooking time can vary based on your air fryer model, so it’s a good idea to check them around the 4–5-minute mark.
2. Does the air fryer need to be preheated for bagel bites?
While preheating is not strictly necessary, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer to 360°F–380°F for about 3–4 minutes. This ensures that the bagel bites cook more evenly and achieve that perfect crispy texture.
3. Can I cook multiple bagel bites at once?
Yes! As long as you arrange the bagel bites in a single layer without overcrowding, you can cook multiple at once. Just be sure not to stack them, as this may result in uneven cooking.
4. Can I use oil when air frying bagel bites?
While you don’t need oil to air fry frozen bagel bites, you can lightly spray the basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. If you prefer extra crispiness, you can even spray the top of the bagel bites before cooking.
Pro Tips for Perfectly Crispy Bagel Bites
- Don’t Overcrowd: Always arrange bagel bites in a single layer. It can result in uneven cooking and you won’t get the same crispyness. .
- Use a Meat Thermometer: If you want to be sure your bagel bites are cooked to perfection, check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F for food safety.
- Experiment with Cooking Times: Different air fryers may require slightly different cooking times, so feel free to adjust the time by a minute or two depending on your preferences.
- Try Different Sauces: Bagel bites are perfect for dipping. Try marinara, ranch, or even a sweet and spicy sauce for variety!
Why Air Fryer Bagel Bites Are a Must-Try Snack
Now you know exactly how long to cook bagel bites in air fryer and how to make them crispy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious! Air frying bagel bites is a quick, easy, and healthier alternative to traditional baking, making them the perfect snack for any time of day. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy your bagel bites with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Whether you’re making a quick snack or feeding a group, the air fryer is the way to go for perfectly cooked bagel bites. Happy cooking!