Soft Homemade Bagels With Yogurt

Name: Soft Homemade Bagels With Yogurt
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups plain Greek yogurt; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); 1 egg (for egg wash); Toppings of your choice (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, etc.)

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Collection

I’ve always found so much joy in making fresh bagels at home, and these Soft Homemade Bagels With Yogurt have quickly become my favorite. The yogurt in the dough gives them a lovely tender texture that just melts in your mouth. On lazy weekends, I love waking up to the smell of freshly baked bagels, and knowing that they’re simple to make with just a few ingredients. Plus, I can customize them with different toppings, making breakfast feel special without much effort.

Created by

Isabella Clark

Last updated on 2026-02-10T17:25:37.137Z

Making bagels has always felt like a special occasion for me, and this recipe has elevated the experience. When I first experimented with yogurt in the dough, I was amazed at how it enhanced the softness while still providing that classic chewiness we love. I remember the first time I pulled them out of the oven; they were perfectly golden and had a delightful aroma that filled my kitchen.

One key tip I learned is to let the dough rest before shaping the bagels. This gives the gluten a chance to relax, making it easier to form the traditional shape. I also recommend boiling them before baking, as this step is essential for achieving that signature bagel crust. Trust me, these little tweaks make all the difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Incredibly soft and fluffy texture thanks to yogurt
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
A delightful homemade aroma that fills your kitchen

Understanding the Role of Yogurt

In this bagel recipe, yogurt isn’t just a unique ingredient; it's the secret to achieving a soft and fluffy texture. The moisture from the yogurt interacts with the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tender crumb that’s ideal for bagels. If you're curious about the science, yogurt contains lactic acid, which helps to slightly tenderize the dough while still allowing it to gain structure during baking. This means that even beginners can create impressive bagels with a light chew that melts in your mouth.

Yogurt also adds a subtle tanginess that elevates the overall flavor profile of your bagels. This acidity balances the sweetness of any toppings you choose, from honey to cream cheese spreads. If you're experimenting, consider using flavored Greek yogurt for a unique twist. Just remember that any flavored version will impact the final taste, so adjust your additional seasonings accordingly.

Perfecting Your Bagel Shape

Shaping bagels correctly is essential for both appearance and texture. When rolling each piece of dough into a ball, ensure your hands are floured to prevent sticking. If the dough feels too sticky, cover it and let it rest for a few minutes; this resting time allows the gluten to relax, making shaping easier. A well-formed bagel should be symmetrical and have an even hole that’s about 1-2 inches wide; this helps them cook evenly and provides that iconic bagel look.

If you find that shaping the bagels is challenging, you can use a piping bag to help form the holes more neatly. Simply push the dough through the piping bag and coax it into shape, ensuring the hole remains large enough. Keep in mind that any imperfections can lead to uneven cooking, so take your time to form them correctly.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Soft Homemade Bagels With Yogurt

Bagel Ingredients

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

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

Instructions

Instructions for Making Soft Homemade Bagels

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. If using honey, add it now. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center to form the classic bagel shape. Make sure the hole is about 1-2 inches wide.

Boil the Bagels

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Gently place the bagels in the boiling water, cooking for 1 minute on each side. This step helps create that chewy exterior.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the boiled bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with your preferred toppings. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Let the bagels cool slightly before enjoying them with your favorite spreads!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, try adding garlic powder or onion flakes to the dough. If you want bagels with even more nutrition, consider using whole wheat flour.

Storage Tips for Fresh Bagels

Once your bagels are baked and cooled, storing them properly is crucial to maintain their texture. Ideal storage is in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to enjoy these bagels beyond that, consider freezing them. Wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which enhances their fresh-baked aroma.

For optimal flavor when reheating, consider slicing the bagels before freezing. This allows for quick and easy toasting straight from the freezer while retaining the soft center and crusty exterior. Alternatively, you can warm them in the oven wrapped in foil to keep the moisture in, letting them regain some of their fresh-out-of-the-oven qualities.

Creative Topping Ideas

The beauty of homemade bagels is in their versatility, especially when it comes to toppings. Classic choices like sesame seeds and poppy seeds are fabulous, but don't shy away from more adventurous options such as everything bagel seasoning, which adds an exciting crunch with garlic and onion flavors. For a sweeter touch, mix cinnamon and sugar for an easy sweet breakfast option. I love sprinkling everything seasoning on mine for that extra flavor punch—it’s like a little taste of a bagel shop right at home!

Consider pairing your bagels with different spreads or dips to further personalize your breakfast. Cream cheese is a timeless choice, but try flavored options like chive or herb. Avocado spread or hummus can also elevate your bagels to a new level, especially when topped with fresh veggies like cucumbers or tomatoes. The combinations can range from classic to innovative, making them perfect for any mood or occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can use regular yogurt, but the texture may be slightly different.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Yes, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Some great options include sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a sweet twist.