Greek Yogurt Bagels Easy Recipe

Name: Greek Yogurt Bagels Easy Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 egg (for egg wash); Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning

Highlighted under: Home Baking Inspiration

I absolutely love making bagels, and this Greek yogurt bagel recipe has become my go-to! The simplicity of using yogurt instead of yeast allows for a quick, satisfying experience without needing to wait for dough to rise. The texture is perfectly chewy, and they come together in just 30 minutes from start to finish. Whether I’m enjoying them plain or topped with cream cheese and smoked salmon, I can’t get enough of these homemade delights.

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:17:34.484Z

When I first stumbled upon this Greek yogurt bagel recipe, I was skeptical. Could a simple mixture of flour and yogurt really yield the same satisfaction as traditional bagels? To my surprise, they turned out wonderfully! The yogurt not only adds flavor but keeps the bagels moist, making them a perfect breakfast option.

I've tried several toppings, but my favorite is everything seasoning, which adds a delightful crunch and flavor to each bite. One tip I learned is to thoroughly knead the dough for better texture—it's a short process that makes a big difference in the final product!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy mornings
Soft, chewy texture with a delightful crust
Versatile with endless topping options

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

The main ingredient in these bagels is Greek yogurt, which not only adds moisture but also provides a tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste. The acidity in yogurt interacts with baking powder to create carbon dioxide bubbles, which gives the bagels a light texture without the need for yeast. This is why it’s important to use fresh yogurt; older yogurt can affect the flavor and rise of your bagels. If you’re lactose intolerant, you can substitute with dairy-free yogurt that maintains a similar consistency.

All-purpose flour is essential for creating the right chewiness in your bagels. If you want a slightly heartier texture, consider swapping a portion of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or spelt flour, but remember that this will change the hydration of the dough. As you experiment, keep an eye on the dough's consistency; it should be moist but not sticky, allowing for easy kneading and shaping.

Shaping and Baking Tips

Shaping your bagels evenly is key to achieving uniform baking. When you roll the dough into balls, make sure to rotate them gently while poking a hole in the center, ensuring the hole is large enough—about 1 to 2 inches. This gap will shrink during baking, so err on the side of a wider hole. If you struggle with this technique, consider using your fingers to stretch the dough instead of just poking it.

For the best color and texture, keep an eye on your bagels while they bake. They should be golden brown after about 20 minutes; however, every oven is different, so check them a few minutes early. If they’re not browning as expected, you can increase the oven temperature by 25°F for the last few minutes to help achieve that perfect crust.

Customizing and Serving Suggestions

These bagels are wonderfully versatile. You can incorporate ingredients directly into the dough, such as finely chopped herbs or even shredded cheese, to give them a unique flavor profile. After baking, try topping them with your favorite spreads or experiment with different types of cheese before baking for a truly personalized treat. Don’t hesitate to get creative; jalapeño and cheddar or sun-dried tomatoes with basil are fantastic combinations.

To serve, these bagels shine as a breakfast option with cream cheese, but they also make for an excellent brunch or lunch base. Try pairing them with smoked salmon and capers for a classic combination or opt for avocado and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a trendy twist. For convenience, these bagels freeze well; just make sure to cool them completely before wrapping and freezing in an airtight bag. They can be reheated in a toaster or oven when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started with your Greek yogurt bagels:

Ingredients

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

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can proceed to make the bagels.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create delicious Greek yogurt bagels:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Add Yogurt

Stir in the Greek yogurt until a dough forms.

Knead Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for a few minutes until it’s smooth.

Shape Bagels

Divide the dough into eight equal pieces, roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center to shape it into a bagel.

Egg Wash and Toppings

Place the bagels on the prepared baking sheet, brush them with beaten egg, and sprinkle your choice of toppings on top.

Bake

Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Enjoy them warm!

Once baked, allow the bagels to cool slightly before indulging. They're delightful fresh from the oven!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding finely chopped herbs or a pinch of garlic powder to the dough before shaping the bagels.

Storage and Reheating

After baking, allow your bagels to cool on a wire rack to maintain their crustiness. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the bagels. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag, which helps prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply toast them directly from frozen for a quick and tasty treat.

If you prefer progressive reheating, simply place the bagel in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This method preserves their chewy texture better than microwaving, which can sometimes result in a soggier bagel.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels are too dense, it may be due to incorporating too much flour while kneading. Always be cautious with the amount; start with less and add more only if necessary until you achieve the right moisture level. Another common issue is uneven baking. If you notice some bagels browning faster than others, try rotating your baking sheet halfway through the cooking time to ensure even heat distribution.

Expand on your bagel-making skills by adjusting your toppings. If toppings tend to fall off, try pressing them lightly onto the surface before baking. This extra step helps them adhere better during the baking process, resulting in a more flavorful bite.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly.

→ 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 add ingredients like cheese or olives to the dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients for added flavor.

→ What’s the best way to reheat bagels?

Reheat them in the oven at a low temperature or use a toaster for a crispy texture.