Greek Yogurt Bagels Oven Baked

Name: Greek Yogurt Bagels Oven Baked
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); Water (for boiling); Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (for topping, optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection

I absolutely love making these Greek Yogurt Bagels because they are incredibly simple and delicious. The yogurt adds a lovely tang that elevates the flavor, while the baking technique achieves that perfect chewy texture. We whipped these up on a lazy Saturday morning, and they quickly became a family favorite. It’s amazing how just a few ingredients can create such a delightful breakfast treat. Trust me, these bagels are worth every minute of the prep and bake time, and you'll be excited to share them with everyone!

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-02-10T18:01:35.846Z

Making these Greek Yogurt Bagels has become a cherished Saturday morning ritual in our home. I find that using Greek yogurt not only simplifies the dough but also creates a bagel that's light yet satisfying. When I combined the yogurt with the flour, the dough came together beautifully, and the technique of boiling the bagels before baking really helped achieve that authentic chewy bagel texture.

As I experimented with this recipe, I discovered that adding a sprinkle of sea salt and sesame seeds before baking gives the bagels that extra crunch and flavor contrast. I love to serve them warm, fresh out of the oven, with a spread of cream cheese or homemade avocado. It’s a delicious way to start the day!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Healthy alternative to traditional bagels
Easy and quick to prepare with minimal ingredients
Perfectly chewy with a hint of tang from the yogurt

The Role of Greek Yogurt

Using Greek yogurt instead of traditional ingredients like cream cheese or sour cream not only cuts down on fat but also adds a delightful tang to the bagels. The yogurt's acidity interacts with the baking powder, creating a lovely rise while contributing to a tender crumb. This process enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bagel not just a vessel for toppings but a stand-alone delight that captivates the palate.

When selecting yogurt, opt for full-fat or low-fat Greek yogurt for the best texture. Non-fat alternatives can make the dough too dry and may affect the final bagel's chewiness. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with flavored Greek yogurts for an unexpected twist, just be cautious with added sugars, which could affect the dough's consistency.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the perfect chewiness in these bagels is all about the dough's hydration and the boiling step. Ensure that you knead the dough just until combined; overworking can lead to a dense bagel. After shaping, boiling the bagels for a minute on each side helps create a beautiful crust that seals in moisture and gives that iconic bagel bite. Keep an eye on your boiling time; too long can result in a gummy texture.

If you find your bagels are a bit too chewy after baking, consider reducing the boiling time slightly or adding a touch more flour during mixing. Each oven is different, and if you notice uneven baking, try rotating the baking sheet halfway through the baking time for even coloration and texture.

Storing and Serving

These Greek yogurt bagels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to a week. If you want to make a batch ahead of time, consider freezing them. Once cooled, wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can last up to 3 months. To reheat, a quick thaw followed by a toast in the oven will bring back their chewy texture.

Serving these bagels is as versatile as they are delicious. Top them with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or honey for a sweet twist, or pair them with avocado and poached eggs for a nourishing breakfast. You can also slice them and turn them into mini sandwiches, making them perfect for brunch gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

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

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, flour, baking powder, salt, and honey until a sticky dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

Shape the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Poke a hole in the center of each ball to form a bagel shape.

Boil the Bagels

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Carefully drop the bagels into the boiling water, cooking them for about 1 minute on each side. Remove and drain.

Bake the Bagels

Place the boiled bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds, if desired. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the bagels cool slightly before enjoying them warm.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding herbs or spices to the dough, like garlic powder or onion powder. You can also experiment with different toppings like everything bagel seasoning.

Tips for Success

One crucial tip for ensuring your bagels rise properly is to make sure your baking powder is fresh. An expired leavening agent can lead to flat and dense bagels. To test its potency, simply add a teaspoon to a small bowl of hot water; if it fizzes, it's good to use!

As you shape the bagels, aim for an even thickness, especially around the hole. If the hole is too small, it might close up during baking, resulting in a less-than-perfect bagel. A good rule of thumb is to make the hole about the size of a quarter, ensuring it holds its shape while baking.

Exploring Flavor Variations

Feel free to explore flavors by incorporating herbs or spices directly into the dough. Think dried garlic, onion powder, or even fresh herbs like basil or rosemary. Adding these can elevate your bagels significantly and make a fantastic base for sandwiches or to enjoy on their own.

You might also consider creating a sweet version of these bagels by adding a tablespoon of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the dough, and topping them with a cinnamon-sugar mixture instead of seeds. This gives a delightful twist that pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze them for up to a month.

→ Can I add toppings before boiling the bagels?

It’s best to add toppings after boiling and before baking to ensure they stick properly.

→ What can I serve with these bagels?

These bagels are delicious with cream cheese, smoked salmon, avocado, or simply butter.