Soft Greek Yogurt Bagels

Name: Soft Greek Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 egg (for egg wash); Optional: toppings like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Classics

I absolutely love making these Soft Greek Yogurt Bagels at home! The process is so simple, and the results are incredibly satisfying. Each bagel is fluffy and soft, yet slightly chewy, making for the perfect base for your favorite toppings. I enjoy experimenting with different flavorings in the dough, from garlic and herbs to everything bagel seasoning. In just a few minutes, you can have fresh, homemade bagels ready to enjoy, and I promise you, once you try this recipe, you'll never want to buy bagels from the store again!

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:29:35.645Z

When I first tried making these bagels, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. Using Greek yogurt eliminates the need for extensive kneading and rising times, which can often deter beginners. I found that incorporating a higher protein yogurt not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a wonderful texture that perfectly mimics traditional bagels.

One key tip I’d like to share is to boil the bagels before baking. This step is essential as it creates that characteristic chewiness on the outside while keeping the inside soft. I often add toppings like sesame seeds or everything seasoning right before baking, which adds a delicious crunch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to make with just a few ingredients.
Perfectly soft and chewy texture that rivals your favorite café.
Versatile base for both sweet and savory toppings.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the ideal texture for your bagels is crucial. The combination of all-purpose flour and Greek yogurt creates a dough that is both soft and chewy. The acidity in the yogurt interacts with the baking powder, helping the bagels rise and resulting in a light, airy interior. When kneading the dough, aim for a smooth consistency, which typically takes about a minute. Dough that feels too sticky may benefit from a light dusting of flour during kneading, while too dry a mixture can be adjusted with more yogurt, 1 tablespoon at a time.

When shaping the bagels, be sure to create a nice hole in the center. This not only gives them the classic bagel shape but also helps them cook evenly. If the holes close up while boiling, just use your fingers to gently reshape them before baking. The boiling step is essential as it aids in developing a chewy crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.

Customization and Variations

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the flavor of your bagels by incorporating ingredients like minced garlic, dried herbs, or cheese into the dough. For a sweeter variation, consider adding a touch of cinnamon or vanilla extract and topping with a cinnamon-sugar blend. If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different toppings; the options are endless! From classic sesame seeds to a spicy everything bagel blend, each variety can transform your breakfast experience.

You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour, which will change the texture slightly but still yield great results. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour will require a bit more liquid, so add extra yogurt as needed. For gluten-free options, ensure you choose a blend suitable for baking, and adjust the baking powder as some blends can be denser than traditional flours.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients:

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional: toppings like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning

These ingredients will yield about 8 bagels, perfect for sharing!

Instructions

Here’s how to make your own Soft Greek Yogurt Bagels:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Incorporate Yogurt

Add the Greek yogurt to the dry mixture and stir until a dough begins to form.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 1 minute until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a bagel by forming a ball and then poking a hole in the center.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Boil each bagel for about 1 minute on each side, then place on the prepared baking sheet.

Add Egg Wash and Bake

Brush the tops of the bagels with the beaten egg. Sprinkle with toppings if desired. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool slightly before enjoying them warm.

These bagels taste best fresh out of the oven, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for a few days.

Pro Tips

Try adding herbs or spices to the dough for added flavor or experiment with different toppings to customize your bagels to your liking.

Storage and Reheating

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for a few days if needed. Simply keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Once completely cooled, place the bagels in a resealable freezer bag, and they'll stay good for up to three months. When you're ready to indulge, just pop them in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through.

To reheat bagels, slice them in half before toasting for a quicker and more even warming. If you find they have dried out in the freezer, a quick spritz of water followed by a short stint in a 350°F oven for about five minutes can help revive their texture.

Troubleshooting Issues

If your bagels aren't rising as expected, double-check the freshness of your baking powder. An expired leavening agent is a common culprit for dense bagels. Ensure that your dough is well-agitated during mixing, as this activates the gluten in the flour necessary for structure. You can also allow your bagels to rest for a few minutes before boiling to help them puff up slightly.

Lastly, if your bagels develop a tough outer crust, consider reducing your baking time. Ovens can vary considerably, and checking for pale, golden edges at the 18-minute mark is a good way to prevent over-baking. If they need more time, check every couple of minutes until achieving that coveted golden brown.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

→ What is the best way to store leftover bagels?

Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer preservation.

→ Can I freeze the bagels?

Absolutely! Allow the bagels to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.

→ Are these bagels suitable for a gluten-free diet?

This recipe is not gluten-free, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend specifically designed for baking bagels.