Soft Greek Yogurt Breakfast Bagels

Name: Soft Greek Yogurt Breakfast Bagels
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); 1 egg (for egg wash); Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (for topping, optional)

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I love starting my day with a warm, fresh bagel, and these Soft Greek Yogurt Breakfast Bagels have become a morning staple in my household. The addition of Greek yogurt not only makes the bagels incredibly soft and fluffy but also adds a delightful tanginess that enhances their overall flavor. They're quick to whip up, perfect for busy mornings, and can even be topped with your favorite spreads for a personalized touch. I can honestly say that once you try these, you’ll never go back to store-bought bagels!

Created by

Selene Woodward

Last updated on 2026-02-16T06:01:36.324Z

I remember the first time I made these bagels; the kitchen was filled with a warm, comforting aroma that reminded me of my favorite bakery. The process was surprisingly simple, and using Greek yogurt made the dough incredibly manageable. I discovered that letting the dough rest for even just a few minutes helps achieve that perfect bagel texture that I always crave.

What truly stands out is the versatility of these bagels. Not only can they be enjoyed plain, but they also serve as the perfect canvas for a variety of toppings. One of my favorite combinations is spreading cream cheese and adding fresh herbs, which signifies the beginning of a good day for me.

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Fluffy texture that makes every bite delightful
Easy to make with just a few ingredients
A healthier spin on traditional bagels with Greek yogurt

The Secret to Softness

The incorporation of Greek yogurt is the key to achieving an incredibly soft and fluffy texture in these bagels. Greek yogurt not only enriches the dough with moisture but also acts as a natural leavener alongside baking powder. This unique combination allows the bagels to rise beautifully while retaining their tender bite. Make sure to use full-fat Greek yogurt for the most satisfying results; low-fat options can lead to a less creamy consistency in the final bagel.

Additionally, the yogurt contributes a subtle tang that contrasts perfectly with sweeter toppings, making each bite more complex and enjoyable. If you prefer a more pronounced tang, consider using a little more yogurt, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the dough's texture, making it a bit stickier. A well-kneaded dough will also help to develop a better structure, so don’t rush through this step.

Shaping Your Bagels

When shaping the bagels, it's important to handle the dough gently to preserve its airy texture. I recommend rolling each piece into a smooth ball before using your finger to poke a hole in the center. This method ensures that the hole is big enough to prevent it from closing up during baking, a common mistake that can lead to unevenly cooked bagels. As a tip, you might find it helpful to rotate the dough in your hands as you stretch it to achieve an even shape.

If you're looking to experiment, consider adding flavor to the dough itself. Ingredients such as garlic powder, onion powder, or even fresh herbs can be mixed in during the kneading stage to infuse your bagels with extra flavor. Just be cautious not to overpower the base taste that the Greek yogurt provides; a little goes a long way!

Topping and Serving Ideas

While these bagels are perfectly delicious on their own, the topping options are endless. Classic choices include a smear of cream cheese or butter, but don’t hesitate to get creative. Try a dollop of avocado, a spread of flavored hummus, or even a light drizzle of honey for a unique twist. The slight sweetness from honey complements the tanginess of the yogurt, creating a delightful contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.

For those who love a bit of crunch, adding sesame or poppy seeds provides texture and visual appeal. If you’re interested in using alternative toppings, consider everything bagel seasoning or finely shredded cheese for a savory kick. After baking, these bagels freeze beautifully; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply pop it in the toaster for a quick reheating!

Ingredients

To make Soft Greek Yogurt Breakfast Bagels, gather the following ingredients:

Bagel Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (for topping, optional)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, let's move on to the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious bagels:

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the Greek yogurt and mix until a dough forms. If using honey, mix it in at this stage.

Shape the Bagels

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces, and roll each piece into a ball. Poke a hole through the center of each ball with your finger, shaping it into a bagel.

Apply Egg Wash

Beat the egg in a small bowl, then brush the egg wash over the bagels. Sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top, if desired.

Bake

Place the bagels on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until they are golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite toppings!

Now that your bagels are baked to perfection, it's time to indulge!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding herbs or spices to the dough before shaping the bagels. This can elevate the taste to new heights.

Storage Tips

To keep your Soft Greek Yogurt Breakfast Bagels fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure they are completely cool before wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer, making them a great make-ahead option for busy mornings.

When you’re ready to enjoy a bagel from the freezer, simply toast it from frozen or let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If you prefer a crispy exterior, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes after thawing. This reheating method revives the bagel's freshness and enhances its fluffy texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels come out denser than expected, it could be due to overmixing the dough or not using enough baking powder. Ensure you mix until just combined and knead gently to maintain a light texture. Another common issue is the bagels sticking to the baking sheet; always use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and achieve an even bake.

On the other hand, if your bagels spread during baking and lose their shape, try refrigerating them for 30 minutes before baking. Cold dough holds its shape better. Also, make sure your oven temperature is accurate as it plays a crucial role in how the bagels rise and firm up. An oven thermometer can help you check and adjust if necessary.

Making Variations

These bagels are a fantastic base for variations. Want to incorporate more flavors? Try adding in finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or diced jalapeños into your dough for a savory bite. Alternatively, you can mix in dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch. For a sweet version, mix in chocolate chips or dried fruits, and top with a sweet cream cheese spread for breakfast indulgence.

You can also experiment with different types of flour. Whole wheat flour can be used to increase the fiber content, though you may need to adjust the water slightly due to its higher absorption rate. Just remember to keep the ratios in check to maintain the desired bagel texture.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may change the texture slightly. You might need to adjust the amount of yogurt for consistency.

→ How should I store the bagels?

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

→ Can I add toppings to the dough?

Absolutely! Incorporate shredded cheese, herbs, or spices into the dough for added flavor.

→ Are these bagels suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian!