Soft Yogurt Bagel Recipe

Name: Soft Yogurt Bagel 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 tablespoon honey (optional); 1 egg (for egg wash); Toppings of choice (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, etc.)

Highlighted under: Easy Food Fix

I absolutely love making these soft yogurt bagels, especially when the craving for a warm, chewy bagel strikes. With just a few simple ingredients, they come together quickly and have the perfect rise and golden crust. What I enjoy most is how versatile they are; you can top them with anything from cream cheese to avocado. They're both fun to make and delicious to eat, making them a go-to breakfast option in our household. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked!

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:10:10.054Z

When I first attempted these soft yogurt bagels, I wasn't sure what to expect. To my surprise, they were incredibly easy to make and turned out wonderfully light and fluffy. I love how yogurt adds a tangy flavor and keeps the bagels moist without being overly dense. The key to the perfect texture is kneading the dough just enough to develop a bit of gluten, ensuring they're chewy and satisfying.

I've tried various toppings, but my favorite is a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning. It elevates the simple bagel into something extraordinary and is always a hit with family and friends. Make sure to experiment with your preferred toppings to find the perfect match for you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The delightful tang of yogurt adds moisture and flavor.
Soft texture that rivals your favorite bakery bagels.
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any day of the week.

The Role of Yogurt in Bagels

One of the key ingredients in this soft yogurt bagel recipe is Greek yogurt, which adds a delightful tang and moisture to the dough. The yogurt also acts as a natural leavening agent, helping the bagels rise while contributing to their chewy texture. This is crucial since traditional bagels are known for their density, and using yogurt gives you a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

When choosing yogurt, opt for full-fat Greek yogurt for the best results. The fat content contributes to a richer flavor profile and a tender bagel. If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, you can use low-fat or non-fat yogurt, but keep in mind that the bagels may not be as moist or flavorful. In my experience, using a high-quality yogurt elevates the final product.

Perfecting the Boiling Technique

Boiling the bagels before baking is a crucial step that sets these apart from regular bread. It helps create a chewy exterior while keeping the inside soft. Make sure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the bagels; this ensures they puff up nicely. Boil them for exactly 1 minute per side for optimal texture. If you prefer a chewier bagel, consider boiling for an additional 30 seconds.

When you're boiling the bagels, avoid overcrowding the pot. This can reduce the temperature of the water, impacting the bagels' ability to puff. A good rule of thumb is to boil only 2-3 at a time, depending on the pot’s size. Using a slotted spoon is beneficial for easy handling, allowing excess water to drain off before transferring them to the baking sheet.

Customizing Your Bagels

What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is! After brushing the bagels with egg wash, you can sprinkle them with various toppings to enhance their flavor. Think outside the box—try a blend of everything bagel seasoning, fresh herbs, or even a sweet topping like cinnamon sugar for a unique twist. Just be mindful of the amount; too much topping can overwhelm the bagel's texture.

If you want to experiment with flavors without compromising the base, consider adding spices to the dough itself. A teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder can add an exciting layer of flavor. For a healthier take, you might even fold in some finely chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the dough before shaping the bagels—a delicious way to sneak in some veggies!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delightful soft yogurt bagels:

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Toppings of choice (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, etc.)

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

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your soft yogurt bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt together. Add the Greek yogurt and honey (if using), and combine until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 2-3 minutes until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and poke a hole in the center to shape the bagel. Gently stretch the hole to about the size of a quarter.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop in a few bagels at a time and boil for 1 minute on each side. Remove and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the boiled bagels with beaten egg and sprinkle your desired toppings. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the bagels cool on a wire rack before enjoying!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding herbs or spices to the dough. You can also experiment with different toppings to suit your taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These yogurt bagels can be easily made ahead of time. Once baked, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the bagels in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to two months. Just be sure to label them with the date to keep track of freshness.

When you’re ready to enjoy a bagel from the freezer, no need to thaw! Just pop it directly into the toaster or oven. For best results, heat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and warm them for about 10-15 minutes; this will help them regain their chewy texture. Toasting will give you that lovely warm outside while still keeping the inside soft and fresh.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels come out too tough or dense, it’s likely due to overworking the dough. Knead it just until it becomes smooth, which should take only 2-3 minutes. If you find the dough too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour, but be cautious not to add too much, as this can lead them to be dry.

In case your bagels don’t achieve that golden brown hue on top after baking, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer. An oven that’s too low may cause underbaking. For an extra golden finish, you can increase the baking time by 2-3 minutes, keeping an eye on them to prevent burning.

Questions About Recipes

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

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

→ How should I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I add flavors like cheese or onion to the bagel dough?

Absolutely! Just fold in your desired flavorings during the dough mixing stage.

→ What toppings are best for yogurt bagels?

Popular toppings include sesame seeds, everything seasoning, or even a sweet topping like cinnamon sugar.