This herby cream cheese air fryer bagel is the perfect lunch or snack when you’re craving a fresh cream cheese bagel but still want something warm and comforting. Topped with parmesan, it turns golden and crisp in the air fryer, adding a savoury crunch that makes every bite feel just right.
Why you’ll love this air fryer everything bagel
This classic cream cheese bagel is packed with fresh herbs but served warm, making it a comforting lunch or snack. It takes less than 15 minutes to make, so it’s ideal when you’re short on time. Air frying the bagel brings it back to life, giving you a crisp outside and a soft, chewy centre.
Ingredients for herby cream cheese air fryer bagel
- 1 everything bagel, halved
- 4 tbsp cream cheese
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh dill
- 1 tbsp finely chopped chives
- Zest of half a lemon
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp finely grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 3–4 small gherkins, chopped into small pieces
- Optional: extra dill or chives for garnish
How to make a cream cheese everything bagel in the air fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
Mix the cream cheese with dill, chives, lemon zest, and black pepper in a small bowl. Spread 2 tbsp per half of the bagel.
Mix the parmesan with the olive oil, then sprinkle over each half.
Place the bagel halves in the air fryer basket cut side up. Cook for 6–7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Remove from air fryer and immediately top with chopped gherkins.
Garnish with extra dill or chives if desired. Serve warm.
How long to air fry a cream cheese bagel
Air fry until the cheese is golden and bubbling, usually around 6-7 minutes at 180°C (350°F).
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bagels
Preventing Burnt Cheese
To make sure the cheese doesn’t burn, keep an eye on the bagels and check them every couple of minutes as they air fry. Mixing the parmesan with a little olive oil helps it melt evenly and form a golden, crispy crust on top of the cream cheese rather than catching too quickly.
When to Add the Gherkins
I like to add the gherkins at the end of cooking so they keep their tangy crunch and fresh flavour. If you prefer them softer and more mellow, you can also mix them into the cream cheese before cooking.
Best Bagels to Use
I used an everything bagel for the extra flavour and texture, but sesame or plain bagels work just as well. Freshly baked bagels give the best results in the air fryer, as they crisp up nicely on the outside while staying soft in the middle, but shop-bought bagels will still work.
Variations & Topping Ideas
For extra flavour, stir some minced garlic into the parmesan and olive oil before sprinkling on top. This creates a rich, garlicky parmesan crust that adds even more depth to your air fryer bagel.
For extra flavour, try mixing in some chopped fresh parsley with the cream cheese. You can also swap the chives for finely chopped spring onion for a slightly different, but equally delicious, twist.
For a salty twist, try topping your bagels with a few capers, either alongside or instead of the gherkins, for a bright, briny flavour.
Air Fryer Bagels: FAQs
Can you put cream cheese on bagels in the air fryer?
Yes! You can spread cream cheese on your bagels and air fry them. To prevent the cheese from burning, keep the temperature moderate and check the bagels frequently. Adding toppings like parmesan or mixing the cream cheese with herbs can also help create a golden, crispy layer.
Does cream cheese melt in the air fryer?
No, the cream cheese will hold its shape well while air frying. If your bagels have a large hole in the centre, avoid spreading the cream cheese over it, or it may slip through during cooking.
What temperature is best for air fryer bagels?
The best temperature to air fry bagels is 180°C (350°F).
Air fryer bagels: similar recipes
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Herby Cream Cheese Air Fryer Bagels
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
- Add the cream cheese to a bowl with the dill, chives, lemon zest, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Spread onto the bagel halves.
- Mix the Parmesan with the olive oil, then sprinkle evenly over each half.
- Place bagel halves in the air fryer basket cut side up. Air fry for 6–7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
- Remove from air fryer and immediately top with chopped gherkins.
- Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.
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