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: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional); Water (for boiling)

Highlighted under: Smart Cooking

I’ve always loved the idea of making bagels at home, and when I discovered this recipe using Greek yogurt, it changed my baking game completely. The yogurt not only enhances the flavor but also adds a wonderful creaminess that makes these bagels incredibly soft and chewy. We're always looking for quick breakfast options, and these bagels are my go-to. They come together in no time with just a few ingredients, and the result is a deliciously satisfying treat.

Created by

Isla Weatherford

Last updated on 2026-02-10T22:45:36.515Z

When I first tried making bagels with Greek yogurt, I was amazed at how it transformed the dough. The yogurt provides a unique tang and ensures that my bagels come out soft and tender every time. During my last baking session, I added some herbs and garlic powder to the mix, which completely elevated their flavor and made them perfect for toasting.

One crucial tip I learned is to knead the dough just enough to bring it together without overworking it. This makes a significant difference in texture. After boiling and baking, my bagels turned out beautifully golden and perfectly chewy. They were an instant hit in my family!

Reasons You'll Love These Bagels

Soft and chewy texture that's irresistible
Only requires a few simple ingredients
Healthy twist with Greek yogurt for added protein
Perfect for toasting and enhancing with your favorite toppings

Creating the Perfect Dough

When working with Greek yogurt in your bagel dough, it's important to choose a full-fat or at least a low-fat version, as the fat contributes to the creamy texture we desire. Make sure to mix the ingredients just until a cohesive dough forms; overmixing can lead to tough bagels. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a workable consistency, but avoid adding too much flour to retain that delightful softness.

Kneading is a critical step in developing the bagel's structure. Aim for about 5-7 minutes of gentle kneading on a floured surface until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. You should be able to stretch it slightly without tearing. If you see visible lumps or cracks, continue kneading. This will help your bagels achieve that perfect chewy bite and a glossy finish once baked.

Boiling and Baking for Texture

Boiling the bagels is a crucial step that greatly affects their final texture and flavor. By boiling the bagels for about 30 seconds on each side, you create a chewy outer crust that provides a distinct bagel character. Make sure your water is at a rolling boil before adding the bagels, and avoid overcrowding the pot; cooking in batches is key to ensuring they boil evenly without sticking together.

After boiling, let the bagels drain properly on a wire rack or paper towel to avoid sogginess. When baking, keep an eye on them—every oven behaves slightly differently. Look for a golden-brown color and a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom, which indicates they are perfectly cooked. If you prefer a more pronounced crust, consider brushing them lightly with an egg wash before baking for extra sheen.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional)
Water (for boiling)

Feel free to experiment with toppings like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine the flour, Greek yogurt, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. If using, mix in the honey or sugar. Knead gently on a floured surface until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and form into a bagel shape by connecting the ends.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently drop the bagels in, boiling for about 30 seconds on each side. Remove and let drain.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the boiled bagels on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.

Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with cream cheese or your favorite spread!

Pro Tips

Using Greek yogurt adds moisture while reducing the need for additional fat. For different flavors, try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs into the dough.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Once your bagels are baked and cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag; they will keep well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and pop them in the toaster for a few minutes before serving. This way, you can always have a fresh-tasting bagel on hand without the fuss of making them from scratch each time.

You can also prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you're ready to make your bagels, let the dough come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and boiling. This method can be a lifesaver on busy mornings!

Variations and Serving Ideas

Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding mix-ins to the dough. Chopped herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, or even spices like garlic powder can elevate your bagels. Try swapping the honey for maple syrup for a different hint of sweetness, or add a teaspoon of cinnamon for a sweeter twist. You can also top them with everything seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds before baking for extra flavor and crunch.

These versatile bagels are not just for breakfast! Enjoy them as sandwich bases, or treat yourself to a delicious brunch by topping with avocado, cream cheese, or smoked salmon. For a fun snack, slice them horizontally, toast until crispy, and spread with your favorite dip or hummus. The possibilities are truly endless!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Yes, these bagels freeze very well. Just ensure they're cooled completely, then wrap them in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.

→ What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

You can substitute with regular yogurt, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I add toppings to these bagels?

Absolutely! Before baking, brush the bagels with an egg wash and sprinkle on toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning.