Soft Yogurt Bagels Oven Baked

Name: Soft Yogurt Bagels Oven Baked
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups self-rising flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 egg (for egg wash); Optional toppings (sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning)

Highlighted under: Rapid Ideas

I absolutely love making Soft Yogurt Bagels at home because they are incredibly simple and versatile. With just three main ingredients, these bagels come together in no time and are a healthier alternative to traditional recipes. Whether I enjoy them plain, topped with cream cheese, or with my favorite smoked salmon, they never fail to impress. Baking them in the oven allows me to achieve that perfect golden crust while keeping the inside soft and chewy. It's a delightful recipe that has quickly become a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:07:35.331Z

I first stumbled upon the idea of yogurt bagels during a busy morning when I needed a quick breakfast solution. The combination of Greek yogurt and self-rising flour was intriguing, and I decided to give it a try. The result was nothing short of amazing! They turned out soft, fluffy, and just what I needed to power through my day.

One of my favorite tips is to experiment with toppings. I’ve used everything from sesame seeds to everything bagel seasoning, which adds an exciting crunch and flavor contrast. Trust me, once you make these, you'll wonder how you ever lived without them!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Super easy to make with only three ingredients
Soft, chewy texture that rivals traditional bagels
Versatile for sweet or savory toppings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

This recipe relies on self-rising flour, which plays a crucial role in creating the bagels' lift. It contains baking powder and salt, eliminating the need for additional leavening agents. If you don't have self-rising flour on hand, you can make your own by combining 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 2 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This will ensure your bagels rise beautifully and maintain their soft texture.

Greek yogurt is another key ingredient that contributes to the bagels’ moistness and flavor. It provides a slight tang that balances the sweetness of any toppings you might choose. For a lighter alternative, you could use plain yogurt, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different. The higher fat content in Greek yogurt helps create that sought-after chewiness and richness.

Perfecting Your Technique

Kneading the dough is an important step to ensure your bagels have the right texture. Aim for a smooth, elastic consistency that is slightly tacky but not overly sticky. If the dough is too sticky, dust your hands and the surface with a little extra flour as you knead. Over-kneading can lead to denser bagels, so stop as soon as everything is well combined and smooth.

When shaping your bagels, ensure the hole in the center is large enough, as it tends to close during baking. A good rule of thumb is to make the hole about 1.5 to 2 inches wide. Once shaped, allow them to rest for a few minutes before baking. This rest time helps the gluten relax and can result in a slightly softer bagel.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for your Soft Yogurt Bagels:

Ingredients

2 cups self-rising flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional toppings (sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning)

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to bake!

Instructions

Here’s how to make your Soft Yogurt Bagels:

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt until a soft dough forms. Knead it gently on a floured surface until it becomes smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into six equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then poke a hole in the center to shape it into a bagel.

Prepare for Baking

Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle your desired toppings.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the bagels for 20 minutes or until they are golden brown.

Enjoy your freshly baked bagels warm!

Pro Tips

For an even softer bagel, try adding a teaspoon of honey or sugar to the dough. This can enhance the flavor and help the bagels brown more beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

These Soft Yogurt Bagels are incredibly versatile! They are delightful when topped with a simple spread of cream cheese and a sprinkle of chives or dill. Alternatively, you can transform them into a delectable breakfast sandwich by adding slices of avocado and poached egg for a nutritious start to your day.

For those who enjoy savory flavors, pairing the bagels with smoked salmon, capers, and a squeeze of lemon makes for an exquisite brunch option. You can also try sweet toppings like honey or fruit preserves for a delightful afternoon snack.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover bagels, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them by placing individually wrapped bagels in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them directly from the freezer in a toaster or oven until heated through.

To refresh day-old bagels, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake them for about 5-7 minutes. This will help restore their soft texture and warm them up perfectly for a delicious snack or breakfast treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but the texture may be a little different. Greek yogurt gives a thicker, richer dough.

→ How can 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, you can use gluten-free self-rising flour as a substitute for a gluten-free version.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Some great options include sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and everything bagel seasoning for extra flavor.