Soft Yogurt Bagel Recipe

Name: Soft Yogurt Bagel Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional); Water for boiling; Toppings of choice (e.g., sesame seeds, everything seasoning)

Highlighted under: Instant Delights

I absolutely love making these Soft Yogurt Bagels at home! They are surprisingly easy to prepare and have a delightful chewy texture that pairs perfectly with any topping. The secret? Using yogurt in the dough! This keeps the bagels soft and adds a subtle tanginess. I often whip them up for breakfast or brunch, and they never fail to impress my family and friends. Give them a try; you’ll be amazed at how simple and delicious they are!

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:25:12.370Z

When I first discovered yogurt bagels, I was intrigued by the simplicity of the recipe. I decided to experiment with different flavors and toppings, like everything seasoning or sesame seeds. What I found is that the yogurt not only makes the dough easier to work with, but it also enhances the moisture and softness of the bagels significantly. This technique has truly changed the way I make bagels!

After a few trial runs, I perfected my method for boiling the bagels before baking. This step is essential for achieving that classic bagel texture. I recommend boiling them for just 30 seconds on each side to get that perfect chewy crust. Trust me, it’s worth the extra few minutes!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Incredibly soft and chewy texture
Delightfully easy to make with just a few ingredients
Versatile - perfect with sweet or savory toppings

The Role of Yogurt in Bagel Making

Using yogurt in this bagel recipe is not just a clever twist; it dramatically alters the texture and flavor of the final product. The yogurt introduces moisture, which contributes to the bagels' soft chewiness. Additionally, it contains acids that interact with the baking powder, enhancing the dough’s rise. If you're looking for a slightly tangy flavor, plain yogurt is your best choice, but feel free to experiment with Greek yogurt for an even richer taste. Just be mindful of the thickness—if substituting with Greek yogurt, you may need to adjust the flour slightly to maintain the right consistency.

Moreover, yogurt is a fantastic substitute for traditional bagel recipes that use boiling water and yeast. It simplifies the process and reduces fermentation time, allowing you to whip up these soft bagels in less than an hour. Keep in mind that the freshness of the yogurt matters; using the freshest yogurt you can find will ensure the best flavor and texture. I like to opt for full-fat yogurt for a creamier texture, but low-fat options work well too if you're looking to cut calories.

Perfecting the Boiling and Baking Process

The boiling step is crucial in bagel making as it helps develop that characteristic chewy texture. Be sure to bring the water to a full boil before dropping in the bagels, as this creates a quick seal on the outer layer. A good tip is to boost the water with a tablespoon of baking soda or malt syrup for additional flavor and color. Boil each bagel for 30 seconds on each side, and look for a slight puffiness as an indicator that they are ready to be removed. This step truly makes a difference in achieving that authentic bagel bite.

After boiling, baking the bagels is where they gather their golden hue and crusty exterior. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and give yourself enough room on the baking sheet to avoid crowding; this ensures even baking. Keep an eye on your bagels as they bake; they’re usually done in about 20 minutes when they develop a golden brown crust. If you want a more pronounced color, you can increase the oven temperature by 25°F and bake for a few fewer minutes, but be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Soft Yogurt Bagels:

For the Bagels

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional)
Water for boiling
Toppings of choice (e.g., sesame seeds, everything seasoning)

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Soft Yogurt Bagels:

Prepare the Dough

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

Knead and Shape

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently for about 2-3 minutes until smooth. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a bagel ring.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop in a few bagels at a time and boil for 30 seconds on each side. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the boiled bagels on a lined baking sheet, sprinkle your desired toppings, and bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the bagels cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with cream cheese, jam, or your favorite spread!

Enjoy your freshly baked Soft Yogurt Bagels!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding herbs or spices to the dough, such as garlic powder or dried oregano.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to make these Soft Yogurt Bagels in advance, they freeze beautifully! Once they cool completely, place them in an airtight bag or container, separating them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can keep them frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, just pop one into the toaster or the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to refresh the texture. This method is perfect for busy mornings when you want a quick yet homemade breakfast.

For those looking to extend fresh bagels' shelf life, store them in a paper bag at room temperature for up to two days. Avoid using plastic bags, as they can make the bagels soggy. If you do have leftovers, consider repurposing them by slicing and toasting them to use for sandwiches or making bagel chips; just bake slices at 350°F (175°C) until crisp for a delightful snack.

Variations and Flavor Twists

These Soft Yogurt Bagels are incredibly versatile! You can incorporate various spices into the dough for added flavor. Try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even herbs like rosemary or thyme directly into the flour mix. For those who enjoy a sweeter touch, mix cinnamon and sugar into the dough for a delicious twist. You could also fold in sun-dried tomatoes or cheese for savory bagels that pair wonderfully with a variety of toppings.

Topping your bagels is where you can truly get creative. While sesame seeds and everything seasoning are classic choices, consider trying poppy seeds, coarse sea salt, or even a drizzle of olive oil followed by fresh herbs. For a sweet option, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of honey after baking can make for a delightful breakfast treat. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize them to suit any palate or occasion!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt works well too! Just make sure it’s unsweetened and plain.

→ How can I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but adjust the liquid as necessary.

→ What toppings are best for these bagels?

Everything seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds are all great options, but feel free to get creative!