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 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); Sesame seeds or Everything Bagel seasoning (for topping)

Highlighted under: Quick Recipe Vault

I love making these soft bagels with Greek yogurt because they come together so quickly and easily! With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a delicious batch that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. The yogurt adds a lovely moisture that makes these bagels soft and chewy, while the baking powder eliminates the need for yeast, which means no waiting for dough to rise. Whenever I make these, my family is always excited to indulge in the warm, freshly baked bagels topped with their favorite spreads.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-02-15T07:37:36.943Z

When I first tried making bagels with Greek yogurt, I was blown away by how simple the process was. It was a revelation to learn that I could create such delicious bagels without all the fuss of traditional methods. The yogurt not only adds flavor but also makes the dough incredibly easy to handle.

One tip I found helpful is to make sure your dough isn’t too sticky; a light sprinkle of flour will make all the difference as you shape each bagel. The result is a perfectly golden crust with a soft, chewy inside that my family can't resist!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy mornings
Soft and chewy texture that delights with every bite
Versatile base that pairs well with a variety of toppings

Using Greek Yogurt in Bagels

The secret ingredient for these bagels is Greek yogurt, which not only provides moisture but also adds a tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste. The fats and proteins in yogurt help achieve that soft, chewy texture we all crave. Using regular yogurt may work, but the higher protein content in Greek yogurt ensures that your bagels hold their shape better during baking, delivering a just-right balance between fluffiness and density.

Greek yogurt is also a great source of protein, making these bagels not just a treat but a somewhat healthier option for breakfast or snacks. By using yogurt, you’re skipping the long fermentation process typically required for traditional bagels. Instead, you can enjoy fresh bagels hot from the oven in less than 30 minutes, which is a game-changer for busy days.

Perfecting the Bagel Shape

Shaping your bagels correctly is crucial for ensuring they bake evenly. After dividing the dough, be sure to roll each piece tightly into a smooth ball. When you poke a hole through the center, make it wide enough to withstand shrinkage during baking—aim for about a 1.5-inch diameter hole. If the holes close up too much, your bagels could end up looking like rolls instead, which isn’t quite the intention of this recipe!

Aligning the bagels on the baking sheet is equally important. Leave adequate space between each bagel (about 2 inches apart), as they will puff up in the oven. This spacing not only allows for proper baking but also helps maintain their distinct bagel shape, preventing them from merging into one another.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your soft bagels.

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Sesame seeds or Everything Bagel seasoning (for topping)

Make sure to have your toppings ready for serving!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your soft bagels.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add in the Greek yogurt and honey if you're using it, and mix until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently for about 1-2 minutes until smooth. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then use your finger to poke a hole in the center to shape a bagel. Make sure the hole is big enough as it will shrink during baking.

Bake the Bagels

Place the shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or Everything Bagel seasoning. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the bagels cool slightly before serving with your favorite spreads!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, try adding garlic powder or onion powder to the dough mix. The key to a good bagel is in the baking—make sure they're perfectly golden before taking them out of the oven.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your bagels are overly dense, it may be due to too much flour in the dough. Keep in mind that the dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it feels dry, try adding a tablespoon of Greek yogurt to balance it out. Conversely, if you're facing a sticky dough that’s difficult to manage, dust your work surface lightly with flour as you knead.

Another common issue is bagels spreading instead of rising. This can happen if the dough wasn't kneaded enough or if it’s too wet. Ensure that you knead for at least 1-2 minutes until the dough is smooth, and consider checking the consistency if they don’t maintain their shape. Practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to adjust the handling based on your experience!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days. To keep them fresh for longer, consider freezing them. After baking and cooling, wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to three months and simply thawed at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them.

For serving suggestions, these bagels are incredibly versatile. For a savory option, top them with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or avocado. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try spreading them with nut butter and sliced bananas or a drizzle of honey. The flavor of the bagel itself pairs well with many toppings, making each serving a delightful experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ Do I need to let the dough rise?

No, the beauty of this recipe is that there's no need to let the dough rise, thanks to the baking powder.

→ How should I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I add toppings to the dough?

Absolutely! You can mix in spices or herbs to the dough before shaping the bagels for added flavor.