Greek Yogurt Bagels With Baking Powder

Name: Greek Yogurt Bagels With Baking Powder
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); 1 egg (for egg wash); Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (for topping, optional)

Highlighted under: Cakes & Oven Treats

I love making Greek Yogurt Bagels with Baking Powder because they are quick, delicious, and incredibly easy to whip up! These bagels have a chewy texture and a delightful tang that comes from the yogurt, and the best part is they take just a fraction of the time of traditional bagels. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, I can enjoy them fresh from the oven, topped with my favorite spreads. Plus, there's no yeast or long rise time, making them a straightforward choice for any baking novice.

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:07:17.843Z

When I first experimented with Greek Yogurt Bagels, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. Instead of waiting for dough to rise, you simply mix Greek yogurt with flour and a leavening agent. This method not only saves time but also results in bagels that are fluffy on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside. Simple yet effective!

Adding a bit of salt and a drizzle of honey to the dough enhances the flavor beautifully, and I found that boiling the bagels for just a minute before baking gives them that classic bagel chewiness. Trust me; you're going to want these for your next brunch.

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Quick and easy to make with no yeast required
Chewy texture that rivals traditional bagels
Flavored with Greek yogurt for a unique twist
Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack

The Science Behind the Ingredients

The primary ingredient in these bagels, Greek yogurt, serves a dual purpose. Not only does it provide a rich tangy flavor, but it also adds moisture and acts as a binder, replacing the need for yeast. This is crucial for maintaining that chewy texture typical of traditional bagels. The high protein content in Greek yogurt also contributes to the structure of the bagel, which paired with the right amount of flour creates a satisfying bite.

Using all-purpose flour allows for a tender crumb while providing the necessary gluten structure needed when combined with the yogurt. If you prefer a different texture, you could try incorporating bread flour for a chewier result. Just remember, when using bread flour, you might need to adjust the liquid content slightly since it absorbs more moisture.

Perfecting Your Bagel Technique

When shaping your bagels, ensure you create a smooth surface on the outer layer before poking the hole. This helps maintain the bagel’s shape during cooking and baking. After shaping, if you let the bagels rest for 10-15 minutes, this can help them rise slightly before they hit the boiling water, contributing to a better overall texture.

It's important not to overcrowd the pot when boiling your bagels. Boil only a few at a time to ensure they have enough space to float freely without sticking. This process is crucial, as it sets the crust of the bagel, creating that desired chewy exterior. Aim for a light, golden color as an indicator that they're ready for baking.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These Greek Yogurt Bagels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can be stored for later enjoyment. If you end up with leftovers, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.

When ready to serve, simply toast the bagels directly from the freezer or reheat them in a warm oven for about 5-7 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Pair them with your favorite toppings like cream cheese, lox, or even avocado for a delightful breakfast or snack option. You can also experiment with flavors by adding herbs, spices, or cheese into the dough before shaping.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Greek Yogurt Bagels with Baking Powder:

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (for topping, optional)

Gather all your ingredients, and let’s get started!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your homemade bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well. Next, add the Greek yogurt and honey, if using. Stir until the mixture forms a sticky dough.

Shape the Bagels

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it for about a minute until smooth. Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then use your finger to poke a hole in the center, shaping it into a bagel.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully add the bagels to the boiling water one at a time. Boil each bagel for about 1 minute on each side, then remove them with a slotted spoon.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the boiled bagels on a lined baking sheet. Beat the egg and brush it over the bagels for a shiny finish. If desired, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the bagels cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them plain or with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For a variation, you can add herbs or cheese to the dough for added flavor! Also, remember to keep the dough light and airy
don't over-knead.

Variations and Flavor Additions

While the classic Greek Yogurt Bagel is delicious on its own, feel free to get creative! Consider adding grated cheese, such as cheddar or feta, into the dough to enhance the flavor profile. For a savory twist, you can mix in finely chopped herbs like dill or chives. If you prefer something sweeter, try folding in blueberries or a dash of cinnamon for a delightful breakfast treat.

You can also customize your toppings. Instead of just sesame or poppy seeds, think about sprinkling everything bagel seasoning for an extra flavor punch, or brush the tops with melted garlic butter right before baking for a buttery finish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels don’t rise properly during boiling, it might be due to an overly dense dough. Ensure your yogurt is at room temperature and that you are measuring your flour accurately, as too much can lead to a tough dough. If the bagels seem to lack flavor, consider increasing the salt slightly or adding a little more honey for sweetness.

In the event that your bagels are too chewy, it’s likely a sign that they were overworked during kneading. Aim for a gentle knead to combine the ingredients just until the dough comes together. Also, ensure you're not boiling them for too long; one minute on each side is sufficient to set the crust without making them hard.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it simple to adjust for larger gatherings. If you want to double the batch, maintain the same proportions of all ingredients. Just be sure to use a larger mixing bowl if necessary to accommodate the increased dough volume.

When scaling up, also account for additional boiling time if you're using a larger pot. It may take a few extra minutes to boil several bagels at once, so check for that lovely golden color to ensure they are cooked through before transferring them to the baking sheet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Yes! Once cooled, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ Can I replace the flour with whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

→ How can I store leftover bagels?

Store the bagels in an airtight bag at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a week.

→ What toppings go well with these bagels?

Cream cheese, avocado, smoked salmon, or even almond butter work well! Get creative!