Soft Yogurt Bagel Recipe

Name: Soft Yogurt Bagel Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); Water for boiling

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I’ve always cherished the chewy texture and warmth of a freshly baked bagel, and creating a soft yogurt bagel at home has been a delightful experience. With just a handful of ingredients, these bagels are incredibly easy to whip up and offer a perfect balance of fluffiness and flavor. The addition of yogurt gives them a unique twist and boosts their protein content. Whether you enjoy them plain, toasted, or topped with your favorite spreads, these yogurt bagels will surely brighten your morning routine!

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:07:13.172Z

As I dove into the world of homemade bagels, I wanted to find a recipe that captured that soft, chewy center without the long proving times. I discovered that using yogurt in the dough not only made the bagels lighter but also added a delightful tanginess. Through experimentation, I found that a higher hydration level in the dough, which is characteristic of yogurt, produced the perfect texture.

While shaping the bagels, I learned that making the hole larger than you think will help them maintain their shape during baking. I typically let them rest for a few minutes after shaping, and it seems to make a difference in the final rise. These bagels are a perfect platform for toppings or can be enjoyed simply with butter!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fluffy texture that’s easy to achieve for beginners
Deliciously tangy flavor from the yogurt
Versatile for sweet or savory toppings

      

Perfecting Your Bagel Shape

Shaping the bagels properly is crucial for achieving that classic bagel look and texture. After dividing the dough, take each piece and gently roll it into a smooth ball. When you're ready to poke a hole in the center, wet your finger slightly to prevent sticking. As you stretch the dough into a ring, aim for a 1-2 inch diameter hole, since it will shrink a bit during boiling and baking. This technique not only improves the appearance but also ensures even cooking.

For a more authentic bagel shape, consider using a greased bagel mold or your hands to maintain consistent sizes and prevent them from flattening. If you find that your holes are closing during the boiling process, simply reshape them gently after boiling. Additionally, rolling the dough tightly into a ball before poking can give a denser, chewier bite, which is characteristic of traditional bagels.

Boiling Ritual for the Ideal Texture

Boiling the bagels is a crucial step that contributes to their characteristic chewy crust. Make sure to use a wide pot filled with enough water to prevent overcrowding when boiling. It's ideal to have the water at a rolling boil, but avoid a vigorous boil that can break apart delicate dough. You can add a tablespoon of honey or baking soda to the boiling water for added flavor and glossiness.

When boiling, aim for a boiling time of 1-2 minutes on each side. This short but effective boiling creates the bagel's famous exterior. Watch for the bagels to puff slightly as they cook; this indicates they’re ready to come out. If you're making a larger batch, boil them in batches of four to avoid crowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once baked, these yogurt bagels can be enjoyed immediately or stored for later. They are best eaten fresh from the oven but can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to store them longer, consider freezing the bagels. Cool them completely then wrap each bagel securely in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag. They will keep well for up to three months and can be reheated directly from frozen in a toaster or oven.

For serving, these bagels are incredibly versatile. Dress them up with classic cream cheese, avocado spread, or even almond butter for a nutritious breakfast or snack. You can also sprinkle toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning before baking to add an extra layer of flavor. If you prefer a sweeter version, try spreading them with honey or jam post-toasting for a delightful touch.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup plain yogurt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Water for boiling

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold in the yogurt and honey until a soft dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball and then use your finger to poke a hole through the center, expanding it to a bagel shape.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop in the bagels, boiling them for about 1–2 minutes on each side. This step helps develop that chewy exterior.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the boiled bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in ingredients like cheese, herbs, or onion into the dough before shaping your bagels.

Ingredient Variations

This recipe allows for creative substitutions based on dietary preferences or pantry availability. For a gluten-free version, try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix in place of all-purpose flour. Just be mindful that the texture may vary slightly, and you might need to adjust the liquid content, adding a little more yogurt if the dough seems too dry.

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using coconut yogurt or another plant-based yogurt. However, keep in mind that this will affect the flavor; opting for a flavored variety can add an interesting twist. The honey can also be swapped out for maple syrup or agave for a vegan-friendly alternative.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your dough feels too sticky during kneading, this likely indicates that it needs more flour. Dust your work surface and your hands with flour as you knead until you achieve a smooth, pliable dough. Conversely, if the dough is too dry and crumbly, adding a tablespoon of yogurt at a time should help bring it together without making it overly wet.

Another common issue is the bagels collapsing after boiling. This can occur if the dough isn’t sufficiently kneaded—make sure you allow enough time for gluten development. If the bagels flatten while baking, try allowing the shaped bagels to rest for about 10 minutes before boiling, which will help them maintain their structure during cooking.

Serving Ideas

For an ultimate breakfast experience, toast your freshly baked bagel and top it with cream cheese, smoked salmon, and capers for a classic New York bagel experience. Alternatively, go for a savory route with a spread of hummus, sliced cucumbers, and a sprinkle of dill for a refreshing twist.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, consider spreading almond butter and sliced bananas on your bagel, drizzling with honey for extra sweetness. You can also experiment with flavored cream cheeses, like chive or roasted red pepper, to complement the tanginess of the yogurt in the bagel.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt works well and will add extra creaminess to your bagels.

→ What toppings can I add on my bagels?

Feel free to experiment with toppings such as sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or even cinnamon sugar!

→ How should I store the bagels?

Store 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?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary.