Soft Bagels Made With Greek Yogurt

Name: Soft Bagels Made With Greek Yogurt
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp honey (optional); 1 egg (for wash); Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (for topping)

Highlighted under: Light & Nourishing

I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for soft bagels made with Greek yogurt! These bagels are incredibly moist and have a delightful chewiness, thanks to the yogurt. I love how quickly they come together, with no need for long proofing times. Whether enjoyed plain, topped with cream cheese, or even dressed with smoked salmon, these bagels always impress. In just a bit of time, you'll have fresh, homemade bagels that feel like a real treat. Trust me, once you try these, you'll never want store-bought again!

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-02-11T00:01:36.557Z

When I first experimented with Greek yogurt in my bagel recipe, I was amazed at the texture it brought. The yogurt not only keeps the bagels soft but also adds a slight tang that pairs beautifully with toppings. I remember the first time I pulled them from the oven; the smell wafted through the kitchen and my family couldn't resist trying them hot and fresh!

I learned that boiling the bagels before baking them creates that classic bagel crust we all love. A quick minute in boiling water does wonders for the exterior, and it’s a step you don’t want to skip. These bagels have become a family favorite, and I love making them for special breakfasts or brunch gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Incredibly soft and chewy texture that rivals bakery bagels
Quick and easy preparation with only a few ingredients
Versatile toppings make them perfect for any occasion

Mastering the Dough

The foundation of soft bagels lies in the dough's texture. Combine your flour with baking powder and salt thoroughly, as this will ensure an even rise and consistency. When you mix in the Greek yogurt, you'll notice the dough begins to come together quickly. I recommend using full-fat Greek yogurt for the best flavor and moisture content. It not only enhances the bagels' richness but also contributes to their delightful chewiness, so don’t skip on quality ingredients.

Kneading is a crucial step that directly affects the bagels' final texture. Aim for about 5-7 minutes of gentle kneading on a floured surface until the dough is smooth and elastic but not sticky. If the dough sticks to your hands or the surface, add a sprinkle of flour. However, be careful not to add too much, as that can dry out the dough resulting in tougher bagels.

Boiling and Baking Techniques

Boiling the bagels is a game-changer that sets them apart from regular bread. This step adds to their characteristic chewy crust. Ensure your water is at a rolling boil before adding the bagels, and cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Boil each bagel for about one minute on each side; they should look slightly puffed and glossy when ready to be removed. This technique locks in moisture, yielding a soft interior while still keeping the outside beautifully tender.

After boiling, the egg wash serves two purposes: it gives the bagels a beautiful golden color and helps toppings adhere better. Be generous with the egg wash, brushing it evenly over the surface to achieve that stunning sheen. Once baked for about 15 minutes or until golden brown, you'll notice a delightful aroma filling your kitchen, signaling that your bagels are ready for enjoying.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your bagels:

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp honey (optional)
1 egg (for wash)
Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (for topping)

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your bagels:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Mix Dough

Add the Greek yogurt and honey (if using) to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms, then knead gently on a floured surface until smooth.

Shape Bagels

Divide the dough into eight equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope shape and form into a circle, pinching the ends together to seal.

Boil Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop the bagels into the boiling water, cooking for about 1 minute on each side. Remove and place on the baking sheet.

Egg Wash and Bake

Whisk the egg and brush it over the bagels. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until golden brown.

Let the bagels cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try mixing in some herbs or minced garlic into the dough. You can also experiment with different toppings like everything bagel seasoning!

Flavor Variations

Want to switch things up? Feel free to infuse your dough with different flavors! For a savory twist, you can mix in finely chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme directly into the batter. A tablespoon of garlic powder could also elevate the flavor profile, giving your bagels a hearty kick. Just remember not to overload your dough with too much liquid to maintain the right balance.

Alternatively, for a sweet touch, consider adding dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. They pair wonderfully with a light cream cheese spread. If you enjoy everything bagels, topping your boiled bagels with a blend of poppy seeds, sesame seeds, garlic flakes, and onion flakes will deliver a classic taste that complements various toppings perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your bagels fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their life, consider freezing them. Slice the bagels in half before freezing to make reheating much easier later on. Place them in a freezer-safe bag and they can last up to three months without losing their delightful texture.

When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pop them straight from the freezer into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp. You can also toast them for a few minutes to revive their chewy exterior. I love serving them warm with a fresh spread of cream cheese or smoked salmon, truly a delightful way to start your day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may result in a denser bagel.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and shape the bagels, then refrigerate them before boiling and baking.

→ What can I serve with these bagels?

They pair wonderfully with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or your favorite jam!