Soft Yogurt Bagels In The Oven

Name: Soft Yogurt Bagels In The Oven
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); Sesame seeds; Everything bagel seasoning; Cornmeal (for the baking sheet)

Highlighted under: Pastry Pleasures

I absolutely love making bagels at home, and these Soft Yogurt Bagels are my go-to recipe! They are incredibly easy to prepare and use just a few simple ingredients. The yogurt adds moisture and tenderness, making them delightful to eat fresh out of the oven. I often enjoy them toasted with a bit of cream cheese or as a base for my favorite toppings. If you're looking for a quick and satisfying homemade breakfast, these bagels are perfect for a cozy weekend morning.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:55:17.452Z

Making these Soft Yogurt Bagels in my kitchen has been a delightful journey. I initially tried using different ratios of flour and yogurt, but what truly works is keeping the balance simple. By using Greek yogurt, I achieved a perfect dough consistency that truly elevates the texture. The key is not to over-knead, which keeps them light and airy.

On my first attempt, I added herbs to the dough and they turned out fantastic! I discovered that you can easily customize the flavor by mixing in your favorite seasonings. These bagels are versatile, great for breakfast, but equally enjoyable as a savory snack throughout the day.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Light and airy texture that’s simply addictive
Perfectly customizable with your favorite flavors and toppings

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving the perfect Soft Yogurt Bagels lies in understanding the role of each ingredient. The Greek yogurt provides not only moisture but also a slight tang that complements the subtle sweetness of honey. If you choose to omit the honey, consider adding an additional pinch of salt to balance the flavors. The baking powder acts as a leavening agent, ensuring that the bagels remain light and fluffy after baking, rather than dense like traditional bagels.

Using all-purpose flour is ideal for these bagels as it creates a soft texture. However, for those looking to add a bit of whole-grain goodness, substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour can enhance the flavor profile while still maintaining a tender bite. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the hydration level, so adjust the yogurt accordingly if you notice the dough being too dry.

Perfecting the Dough

When mixing the dough, it’s essential to only stir until a shaggy mass forms. Overmixing can lead to tougher bagels, which is contrary to the soft texture we aim for. As you knead the dough, look for a smooth surface that doesn't stick too much to your hands; this is a sign that you’ve kneaded just enough. If your dough feels overly sticky during kneading, you can sprinkle in a bit more flour, but always be cautious not to add too much, as this will result in a denser bagel.

If you find the dough challenging to shape or it's refusing to hold its shape, it may be beneficial to let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This rest period allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to create that iconic bagel shape while ensuring that they puff up nicely in the oven.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey (optional)

For Toppings

Sesame seeds
Everything bagel seasoning
Cornmeal (for the baking sheet)

Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready before you start!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or dusting it with cornmeal.

Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, Greek yogurt, baking powder, salt, and honey. Stir until the mixture forms a shaggy dough.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for just a minute or two until it's smooth but still soft. Do not over-knead!

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then use your finger to poke a hole in the center, stretching it out to form a bagel shape.

Add Toppings and Bake

Place the shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet. If you like, brush the tops with a little water and sprinkle with sesame seeds or seasoning. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before enjoying them warm or toasted.

Enjoy your freshly baked bagels with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or chopped herbs to the dough for savory bagels. They freeze well too, so feel free to make a big batch and enjoy them later.

Serving Suggestions

These Soft Yogurt Bagels are incredibly versatile. For a classic breakfast option, spread a generous layer of cream cheese on top and add smoked salmon, capers, or sliced cucumbers for a delightful brunch treat. They also pair perfectly with savory toppings such as avocado and a sprinkle of sea salt or a simple tomato and basil combination for a fresh twist.

If you want to take your bagels to a new level, consider making a breakfast sandwich. Layer your favorite cooked protein, such as scrambled eggs or bacon, along with cheese to create a hearty morning meal that will keep you satisfied for hours.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store leftover bagels, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack, then place them in an airtight container or a Ziploc bag. They can be kept at room temperature for up to two days, but for longer freshness, it's best to refrigerate them. If you want to store them for an extended period, consider freezing them. Place the cooled bagels in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and they should last up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your bagels again, simply toast them from frozen for the best texture, or you can fully defrost them in the refrigerator overnight before toasting. This method will give you that delightful warm, soft interior with a crisp exterior that makes these bagels so enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these bagels gluten-free.

→ What can I top my bagels with?

Enjoy them with cream cheese, smoked salmon, avocado, or any of your favorite spreads and toppings!