Soft Yogurt Bagels Oven Baked

Name: Soft Yogurt Bagels Oven Baked
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); 1 egg (for egg wash); Toppings of your choice (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, etc.)

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Collection

I absolutely love making bagels at home, and these soft yogurt bagels are my go-to recipe! They’re incredibly easy to prepare and require no boiling at all, so we can have fresh, warm bagels right out of the oven in no time. The tanginess of yogurt makes them wonderfully tender with a slight chew. Perfect for brunch or a quick snack, these bagels can be customized with your favorite toppings. I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you!

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:05:34.193Z

Once, I found myself craving bagels but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s when I stumbled across the delightful concept of yogurt bagels. Using just a few ingredients, I discovered that I could achieve the same doughy goodness without the hassle of boiling. The result blew me away — soft, fluffy bagels that rivaled anything from the bagel shop!

I also learned to experiment with toppings: everything from sesame seeds to everything bagel seasoning works wonders. To make them even more special, you can add herbs or cheese directly into the dough. The possibilities are endless!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Quick and easy preparation in just 30 minutes
Versatile dough that adapts to various flavors
Soft and tender texture that’s simply irresistible

Mastering the Dough

The dough for these yogurt bagels is unique because it relies on yogurt as the primary moisture source, replacing traditional water. This not only simplifies the process but also imparts a delightful tanginess and moisture to the bagels. When mixing the yogurt with the dry ingredients, aim for a slightly sticky consistency; if it feels too wet, a small sprinkle of flour can help achieve the right texture without compromising softness.

Kneading the dough is a crucial step that enhances the gluten structure, which gives the bagels a chewy texture. I usually knead gently for about 2 minutes on a floured surface. Over-kneading can lead to tough bagels, so keep an eye on the dough's elasticity; it should be smooth and slightly elastic but not rubbery.

Customizing Your Bagels

One of the best features of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt the flavor profile by adding various spices or herbs to the dough. Consider incorporating garlic powder, onion powder, or even dried herbs like oregano or thyme for a savory twist. If you prefer a sweeter bagel, mix in some cinnamon or nutmeg.

For toppings, the options are endless! Beyond sesame or poppy seeds, try everything bagel seasoning or a dash of coarse sea salt for added flair. Just remember to apply the egg wash generously, as it not only helps the toppings adhere but also gives the bagels a beautiful, glossy finish as they bake.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

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

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution.

Add Yogurt

Add the yogurt and honey (if using) to the dry mixture. Stir until a dough forms; it should be slightly sticky.

Knead Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it gently for about 2 minutes until smooth.

Shape Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 8-10 inches long and shape it into a bagel by pressing the ends together.

Apply Egg Wash

Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over each bagel. Sprinkle your desired toppings on top.

Bake

Place the bagels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove them from the oven and let cool on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or toasted!

Experiment with different toppings or mix-ins in the dough for a variety of flavors.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can boil the bagels for 30 seconds in salted water before baking for a chewier texture.

Storage and Reheating

These yogurt bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored for later. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They will keep at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; simply wrap each bagel in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They will maintain quality for up to 2 months.

When you're ready to enjoy a bagel, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or toast them to get that delightful crispy exterior back. This method restores their warm, soft texture beautifully.

Common Troubleshooting

If your bagels turn out denser than expected, it could be due to over-kneading or not enough rising time during shaping. Remember that the dough should feel soft and pliable; if it’s too tough, a gentle knead can help soften it. Also, ensure you are using fresh baking powder and baking soda, as expired leavening agents can hinder the bagel's rise.

For those who may face difficulty shaping the bagels, a helpful tip is to create a smooth rope on a floured surface. Don’t hesitate to flour your hands and the surface to prevent sticking. If you're having trouble getting the dough to stick together at the ends, lightly wet your fingers and press them to encourage a better seal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt works perfectly and will give the bagels a slightly thicker texture.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free baking blend instead of all-purpose flour, keeping the proportions the same.

→ What toppings can I use?

Feel free to use sesame seeds, everything bagel spice, or even shredded cheese — the options are endless!