Soft Homemade Bagels With Yogurt

Name: Soft Homemade Bagels With Yogurt
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups plain Greek yogurt; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey; Water for boiling; Toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Collection

I absolutely love baking, and there's something truly special about making bagels from scratch. The other day, I decided to try a simple method using yogurt for extra moisture, and the results were amazing! These bagels turned out incredibly soft and fluffy, with a unique flavor that pairs wonderfully with both sweet and savory toppings. I've never been a huge fan of traditional bagel recipes because of the long fermentation process, but this quick version revolutionized my homemade bagel game.

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-02-10T18:09:36.401Z

As I kneaded the dough, I noticed how soft and pliable it was, thanks to the yogurt. It adds not only moisture but also a slight tang that elevates the flavor. I also experimented with boiling the bagels in a honey-water mixture before baking, which gave them a beautiful sheen and added a touch of sweetness.

Serving these bagels fresh out of the oven with a smear of cream cheese or homemade jam was a delightful experience. I couldn’t believe how easy it was to achieve that bakery-style texture at home. These bagels are truly a family favorite now!

Why You Will Love These Bagels
A unique twist on traditional bagels with a softer, fluffier texture
Quick and easy to make, perfect for a weekend breakfast
Versatile, allowing for endless topping combinations

Tips for the Perfect Bagel Texture

To achieve that soft and fluffy texture, the key is in the yogurt. Greek yogurt adds moisture and tang, which traditional bagel recipes often lack due to yeast fermentation. This method requires less kneading, making the dough easier to work with. Make sure to use plain Greek yogurt, as flavored varieties can change the taste dramatically and may not yield the same results.

When shaping your bagels, ensure that the holes are wide enough. As the bagels boil and bake, they will puff slightly, making the holes smaller. Aim for a hole that is about 1-2 inches in diameter. The more open the hole, the better the bagel will retain its shape without becoming doughy in the middle.

Perfect Boiling Technique

Boiling the bagels is an essential step that contributes to their distinctive texture and chewiness. The addition of honey to the boiling water not only adds a subtle sweetness but also helps create a glossy finish on the bagels. Make sure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the bagels; otherwise, they could become overly soft and lose their shape.

When boiling, flip each bagel halfway through for even cooking. A good visual cue is that the bagels should float to the surface once they are ready to be flipped. If you encounter any issues with floating, your water may not be boiling vigorously enough, so increase the heat slightly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your own soft homemade bagels with yogurt:

Bagel Ingredients

1 ½ cups plain Greek yogurt
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey
Water for boiling
Toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning

Once you have everything ready, you’re all set to start making your delicious bagels!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your bagels:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Dough

In a medium bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, flour, baking powder, and salt until a dough forms.

Knead and Shape

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 2-3 minutes. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions, roll each into a ball, and poke a hole in the center to shape into bagels.

Boil the Bagels

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and stir in honey. Boil each bagel for 1 minute on each side, then transfer to the baking sheet.

Add Toppings and Bake

Sprinkle your desired toppings on the bagels and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow bagels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or toasted with your favorite spreads!

Now that you've made your bagels, it's easy to enjoy them with any toppings you like!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding herbs or spices to the dough. The bagels freeze well, so make a double batch and enjoy them later!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Once your bagels have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster until warm and crispy. Alternatively, you can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore that fresh-baked texture.

Ideas for Serving and Variations

These bagels are incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings and spreads. Whether you prefer classic cream cheese or something sweeter like honey or jam, they serve as a perfect vessel for all your favorite breakfast toppings. You can also use them as a base for sandwiches or as a delicious side to soups and salads.

Feel free to experiment with flavors in the dough itself. Adding mild seasonings like garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the bagel's taste. You could even incorporate herbs, such as fresh dill or rosemary, for an aromatic twist that pairs nicely with savory toppings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of yogurt?

Yes, you can use any type of plain yogurt, but Greek yogurt gives the best results for texture.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and adjust the liquid as needed.

→ 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 these bagels be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours before boiling and baking.