Soft Bagels Made With Greek Yogurt

Name: Soft Bagels Made With Greek Yogurt
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey or sugar; 1 egg (for egg wash); Optional toppings (sesame seeds, everything seasoning)

Highlighted under: Simple Cooking

I love making bagels because they are a delightful blend of chewy texture and subtle flavor. When I discovered the trick of using Greek yogurt, it took my bagel game to a whole new level! These soft bagels are not only quick to prepare but also have the added benefit of protein from the yogurt. Each bite is a delicious balance that pairs perfectly with cream cheese or jam. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, you'll be amazed at how easy it is to enjoy fresh bagels at home.

Created by

Arden Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-03-16T22:27:56.590Z

When I first tried making bagels with Greek yogurt, I was skeptical yet hopeful. The dough came together effortlessly, and I couldn't believe how smooth it felt. After baking, the golden crust gave way to a tender, airy interior that reminded me of my favorite bagel shop's offerings. The best part is that they can be customized with toppings like sesame or everything seasoning, making them even more delightful!

One crucial tip I learned is to not over-knead the dough. Just mixing until combined ensures that the bagels stay soft and fluffy. I sometimes like to let the dough rest for a few minutes before shaping; this makes it easier to work with and gives me perfect bagels every time. Try it, and you’ll taste the difference!

Why You'll Love These Bagels

Quick and easy recipe perfect for busy mornings
Soft, fluffy texture thanks to Greek yogurt
Versatile toppings for endless flavor combinations

The Role of Greek Yogurt

Using Greek yogurt in this bagel recipe is a game changer for both texture and flavor. The yogurt provides moisture and fat, yielding a soft and slightly tangy bagel. It also elevates the protein content, giving these bagels a more satisfying mouthfeel. If you’re ever short on Greek yogurt, you can substitute with regular yogurt, but keep in mind that it may result in a denser texture.

Additionally, the live cultures in Greek yogurt can enhance the overall fermentation of the dough slightly, leading to a more complex flavor profile. When mixing the ingredients, you’ll notice that the dough absorbs the yogurt beautifully, making it easy to work with. Just ensure that your yogurt is as thick as possible for the best results.

Perfecting the Bagel Shape

Shaping the bagels correctly is key to achieving that classic bagel look and chewy bite. After dividing your dough, roll each piece gently into a ball, then gently poke a hole with your finger to form the bagel shape. Make sure to stretch the hole evenly to avoid it closing during baking. If you’re concerned about uneven shapes, using a pastry ring can help ensure consistent sizing.

A good tip is to keep your hands slightly floured while shaping to prevent sticking. This will also help you maintain the dough's integrity. Remember, the larger your hole, the better, as the bagels will rise during boiling and baking, thus closing the hole slightly.

Boiling and Baking Tips

Boiling the bagels is a crucial step that contributes to their iconic chewy texture. As you boil each bagel for one minute per side, watch for them to puff up slightly; this means they’re setting their shape. Boiling in water that’s at a rapid boil ensures that the bagels get a firm exterior while staying soft inside. I’ve found that adding a bit of honey or sugar to the boiling water can enhance browning.

When baking, keeping your oven at 375°F (190°C) allows for even cooking. If you have a baking stone or steel, preheat it along with the oven; it can help achieve a wonderfully crisp bottom. Look for a golden brown color on the bagels’ tops, which indicates they’re ready. If they’re not browning enough, you can broil them for a minute at the end to get that perfect finish.

Ingredients

Bagel Ingredients

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey or sugar
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional toppings (sesame seeds, everything seasoning)

Instructions

How to Make Soft Bagels

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, flour, baking soda, salt, and honey. Mix until a dough forms, then knead lightly on a floured surface until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into six equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and poke a hole in the center with your finger. Gently stretch to form a bagel shape.

Boil and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a pot of water to a boil and boil each bagel for about 1 minute per side. Place on a baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and sprinkle with toppings.

Enjoy!

Bake for 20 minutes until golden. Let cool slightly before devouring with your favorite spread or topping.

Enjoy Your Bagels!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding garlic powder or herbs to the dough. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh for a few days.

Serving Suggestions

These homemade bagels are versatile and can be served in various ways. A classic pairing is cream cheese; try flavors like chive or everything bagel for an authentic experience. For a sweeter option, slather them with jam or almond butter. You can also toast the bagels and top them off with avocado and a sprinkle of salt for a nutritious breakfast.

If you're feeling adventurous, create sandwich-style bagels with fillings like smoked salmon, cucumber, and dill for a brunch treat. These bagels also hold up well, making them a great base for bagel sandwiches or even mini pizzas. Just ensure to use hearty toppings that won’t make the bagels soggy.

Storing and Reheating

To store your bagels, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or resealable bag. They can be kept at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing the bagels; wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will maintain their quality for about 2-3 months.

When ready to enjoy frozen bagels, simply remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes. You can then toast them straight from the freezer for a warm, fresh taste. This method works wonders without any need for thawing, preserving the soft texture of the bagels.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, but the texture may be denser. You can use half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a healthier option.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I add toppings before boiling?

For best results, add toppings after boiling and before baking, so they stick better.

→ Are these bagels gluten-free?

This specific recipe contains gluten due to the all-purpose flour, but you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends.