Soft Greek Yogurt Bagels

Name: Soft Greek Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups self-rising flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 egg (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon honey (optional); 1 teaspoon salt; Toppings of your choice (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning)

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Inspiration

I absolutely love making Soft Greek Yogurt Bagels at home! The combination of tangy Greek yogurt and simple ingredients results in a dough that’s incredibly easy to work with. In just a few simple steps and minimal active time, I can enjoy fresh, warm bagels right out of the oven. They have a lovely chewy texture that makes them perfect for breakfast or a snack. Plus, they’re way healthier than store-bought versions and can be customized with various toppings, which is always a bonus in our kitchen.

Created by

Kate Phillips

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:41:36.221Z

When I first tried making bagels with Greek yogurt, I was blown away by how delightful they turned out! The yogurt not only adds a soft texture but also brings a wonderful flavor that’s hard to resist. I found that using self-rising flour simplifies the process, eliminating the need for yeast and long rising times.

After baking, I discovered that letting them cool slightly before slicing enhances their texture even further. I like to experiment with toppings, and my favorite so far has been everything seasoning – it adds just the right amount of crunch and flavor!

Why You Will Love These Bagels
Foolproof recipe that guarantees delicious results every time
Chewy texture that's irresistibly soft and fresh
Perfect for customized toppings – sweet or savory

Understanding the Ingredients

The key ingredient in these Soft Greek Yogurt Bagels is the Greek yogurt itself, which not only adds a tangy flavor but also keeps the bagels moist and soft. Its high protein content contributes to the dough's structure, allowing the bagels to rise well during boiling and baking. Don't be tempted to substitute regular yogurt; it lacks the creaminess and protein that Greek yogurt provides, resulting in drier bagels.

Using self-rising flour is another crucial factor. This flour already contains both baking powder and salt, making it an efficient choice for this recipe. If you only have all-purpose flour, you can create a self-rising substitute by mixing 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 2 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Just remember to adjust the salt in the recipe accordingly to balance the flavors.

Tips for Perfect Bagels

Kneading the dough for just 1-2 minutes may seem short, but this brief process is enough to develop a smooth texture without overworking the dough. Over-kneading can lead to tough bagels, so keep an eye on the dough until it is just combined and slightly elastic. When shaping the bagels, make sure the hole in the center is sufficiently wide; it will shrink during cooking, so aim for a diameter that is about 1-2 inches.

Boiling the bagels is a critical step that enhances their chewy texture. Aim for a rolling boil in a large pot, as the vigorous movement helps prevent the bagels from becoming too dense. When boiling, be sure not to overcrowd the pot; cook no more than 3-4 bagels at a time. After boiling, look for a glossy finish before transferring them to the oven.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Soft Greek Yogurt Bagels

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups self-rising flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
Toppings of your choice (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

How to Make Soft Greek Yogurt Bagels

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine self-rising flour and salt. Add Greek yogurt and mix until a dough forms. You may add honey for a hint of sweetness if desired.

Knead and Shape

On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 1-2 minutes until smooth. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Use your finger to poke a hole in the center and shape it into a bagel.

Boil the Bagels

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

Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the boiled bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with your desired toppings. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the bagels cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy with your favorite spreads or toppings.

For optimal freshness, store bagels in an airtight container once cooled.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different flavored yogurts or add herbs directly into the dough for added taste.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the bagels after they have cooled completely. Wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag to keep them fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the toaster directly from the freezer.

Serving these Soft Greek Yogurt Bagels is all about personalization. They pair wonderfully with classic spreads like cream cheese, avocado, or even hummus for a savory option. For a sweet twist, try butter and honey or a cream cheese fruit spread. The toppings can also be customized to include sesame seeds, garlic powder, or even cheese for added flavor.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to experiment with different toppings on your bagels to suit your taste. You can sprinkle everything seasoning for a savory flair or add finely chopped herbs to the dough for an herby twist. Additionally, consider incorporating ingredients like shredded cheese or diced sun-dried tomatoes into the dough to create unique flavor profiles that cater to your cravings.

If you are looking for a gluten-free version, you can use gluten-free self-rising flour blends available in most grocery stores. Just ensure that your Greek yogurt is also certified gluten-free. The texture may differ slightly, but the boiling and baking processes remain the same, allowing you to enjoy a delicious bagel without gluten.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but you will need to add 2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt.

→ How long do these bagels last?

They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or frozen for longer preservation.

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute with a gluten-free self-rising flour blend, though the texture may vary slightly.

→ What toppings can I use?

You can use sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic powder, or even a sweet topping like cinnamon sugar!