Soft Yogurt Bagels In The Oven

Name: Soft Yogurt Bagels In The Oven
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 (optional); Water for boiling; Toppings (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, etc.)

Highlighted under: Busy Day Cooking

I absolutely love making bagels at home, and these Soft Yogurt Bagels are a delightful and simple way to enjoy fresh bagels straight from the oven. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, we can create fluffy bagels that have a subtle tang from the yogurt. The aroma that fills my kitchen as they bake is simply irresistible. Pair them with your favorite spreads or top them with cream cheese, and you have a delicious breakfast or snack ready to go in no time!

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:07:08.252Z

When I first tried making bagels with yogurt, I was amazed at how simple and rewarding the process was. The key is using Greek yogurt, which gives the dough a rich consistency and helps with rising. I fondly remember the first time I took them out of the oven; they were golden brown and had a delightful chewiness that just can’t be beaten.

Another favorite part of this recipe is the versatility. You can mix in herbs, spices, or even cheese to make them your own! It’s a great way to experiment with flavors, and I love serving them with homemade dips or fresh vegetables. Every batch turns out beautifully, and the smiles around the breakfast table are priceless.

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Quick and easy to prepare with just a few ingredients
Soft and chewy texture that's incredibly satisfying
Customizable with your favorite toppings and flavors

Perfecting the Dough

The dough for these Soft Yogurt Bagels is incredibly forgiving. The combination of Greek yogurt and flour creates a rich structure with a nice stretch. When mixing, be sure to blend until the dough is no longer sticky, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes of kneading. If it clings to your hands too much, gradually add a tablespoon of flour until you reach a smooth consistency that feels elastic but not crumbly.

After you shape the dough into balls, give them a gentle stretch when forming the bagel shape. It's essential not to over-stretch; otherwise, the bagels may lose their shape during boiling. The ideal bagel should have a thick, rounded body without any holes too large, which would lead to an uneven texture when baked.

Boiling for the Classic Texture

Boiling the bagels is a crucial step that sets them apart from regular bread. It not only develops their characteristic chewy exterior but also helps the bagels achieve a lovely sheen. When you boil, ensure that the water is at a rolling boil and add the bagels in batches, so you don’t overcrowd the pot. Boil for 1-2 minutes per side, then transfer them to a cooling rack for a moment to drip off excess water before baking.

If you're looking to experiment, consider adding a tablespoon of baking soda or malt syrup to the boiling water. This variation can deepen the flavor and enhance the browning during baking, resulting in a bagel that's not only chewy but with an appealing golden crust.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Soft Yogurt Bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop them in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, and they’ll regain their softness.

Get creative with toppings! Aside from the classic sesame or poppy seeds, you could try everything seasoning, dried herbs, or even grated cheese before baking. For a sweet twist, sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top instead. These bagels also serve as a perfect base for sandwiches, so feel free to pile on your favorite fillings like smoked salmon, cream cheese, or avocado for a delightful treat any time of the day.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started!

Ingredients for Bagels

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Water for boiling
Toppings (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, etc.)

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly baked bagels!

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix in the Greek yogurt and honey, then knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour as needed.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Use your finger to poke a hole in the center of each ball and gently stretch to form a bagel shape.

Boil the Bagels

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Carefully add the bagels and boil for 1-2 minutes on each side. This helps achieve that classic bagel texture.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the boiled bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, sprinkle with your desired toppings, and bake for about 20 minutes or until golden.

Enjoy your bagels warm or store them for later!

Pro Tips

Try adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the dough for extra flavor. These bagels freeze well, so make a big batch and save some for later!

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient plays a significant role in achieving the perfect bagel. Greek yogurt not only provides moisture and richness but also contributes to the delightful tang that sets these bagels apart. If you're looking for a low-fat alternative, consider using a full-fat yogurt instead, as it will maintain the bagel’s texture and flavor without sacrificing much.

Baking powder is essential here as it helps to give the bagels their rise, keeping them soft and fluffy. If you want to swap it for yeast, you can do so, but you’ll need to adjust the process significantly by allowing the dough to rise first, which will change the timeframe of your baking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels turn out denser than expected, it could be due to under-kneading. Make sure you knead until the dough feels elastic and smooth. Avoid skipping the boiling step; without it, your bagels may end up soft but lacking the traditional chew.

Another common issue is the bagels spreading too much during baking. Ensure you form them tightly and poke the hole gently to maintain the shape. If they still spread, try chilling your dough for 30 minutes before boiling to help them retain form during baking.

Customizing Your Bagels

You can easily customize these bagels by adding ingredients into the dough itself. Chopped herbs like rosemary or sun-dried tomatoes can elevate your bagels to a new level. Just fold them into the dough during the mixing stage for an exciting flavor twist.

For a festive twist, consider using flavored yogurt such as lemon or berry for a subtle sweetness, which pairs wonderfully with savory toppings. Remember that the type of flour can also influence the outcome; whole wheat flour can be used for a nuttier flavor, but you may need to adjust the water content slightly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for part or all of the all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that this may affect texture.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I add toppings before baking?

Absolutely! You can sprinkle toppings like seeds or spices on the bagels just before baking to add great flavor.

→ Is it necessary to boil the bagels?

Yes, boiling helps create that chewy texture characteristic of bagels, so don’t skip this step!