There’s something deeply satisfying about pulling a tray of fresh bagels from the kitchen – warm, golden, and smelling irresistible.
But if the idea of kneading dough and waiting for it to rise puts you off, here’s some good news.
Thanks to a clever hack from Irish food blogger Rachel Hornibrook, you can make delicious, chewy bagels with only three simple ingredients – and no proving or oven required.
This article is for general informational purposes only. Cooking times and results may vary depending on your appliance. Photos are for illustrative purposes only.
The Three-Ingredient Secret

Forget complicated bread recipes and fancy machines – all you need is self-raising flour, Greek yoghurt, and a pinch of salt.
The yoghurt might sound like an odd choice, but it’s what gives the bagels their signature texture while adding a boost of protein.
Mix everything together until you’ve got a smooth dough, shape into rounds, and poke a hole in the middle.
For a finishing touch, brush each bagel with a little beaten egg and sprinkle on your favourite toppings – sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even “everything” seasoning if you fancy something bold.
Quick, Easy, And Fool-Proof
Once shaped, the bagels head straight into the air fryer – no proving, no waiting around.
Cook them at 170°C for about 20 to 25 minutes until they’re puffed up and beautifully golden.
That’s it. You’ve got freshly made bagels in under half an hour – crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cheeky snack.
They taste incredible fresh from the fryer with a bit of butter, but they’re also brilliant topped with cream cheese and smoked salmon, or just a drizzle of honey for something sweet.

















