Soft Greek Yogurt Breakfast Bagels

Name: Soft Greek Yogurt Breakfast Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); Sesame seeds; Poppy seeds; Coarse sea salt; Everything bagel seasoning

Highlighted under: Smart Kitchen

I absolutely love starting my day with Soft Greek Yogurt Breakfast Bagels. These bagels are not just fluffy and delicious, but they also incorporate creamy Greek yogurt for a wonderfully moist texture. I appreciate how quick and easy they are to whip up, making them perfect for busy mornings. Plus, they are versatile enough to be topped with anything from classic cream cheese to avocado or smoked salmon. If you love a warm, homemade breakfast, these bagels will become your new favorite.

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-02-16T10:01:37.238Z

When I first tried making bagels with Greek yogurt, I was amazed at how simple and straightforward the process is. The Greek yogurt adds a rich creaminess while reducing the need for extensive kneading, which is perfect for novice bakers. I found that the key is not to overwork the dough; just mix until combined, and it’ll give you that soft interior you want in a bagel.

These bagels bake up beautifully in just about 15 minutes, making them an ideal breakfast treat when I’m short on time. I particularly enjoy them fresh out of the oven with a smear of cream cheese and fresh herbs. This combination creates a lovely balance between creaminess and flavor that I can’t resist!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Light and fluffy texture thanks to Greek yogurt
Versatile for various toppings to suit your mood
Perfect for meal prep and freezing for later

The Role of Greek Yogurt

In this recipe, Greek yogurt plays a crucial role in achieving the bagels' unique texture. Its high moisture content not only contributes to a fluffy and tender crumb but also helps reduce the need for excessive kneading. This means you can mix the ingredients until just combined, limiting gluten development for a softer bite. The tanginess of Greek yogurt also adds a subtle flavor element that complements the toppings beautifully.

If you're looking to make these bagels without Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with a non-dairy yogurt or even a thick sour cream. However, keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor and texture. For those wary of dairy, a plant-based yogurt can work, but ensure it has similar thickness to Greek yogurt to maintain the intended structure.

Perfecting Your Bagel Shape

Shaping the bagels correctly is key to their final appearance and texture. When rolling the dough into ropes, aim for a diameter of about half an inch for even baking. Pinching the ends together securely is important; otherwise, they may unravel during baking. I find that gently twisting the ends before joining helps create a more secure and uniform circle.

If you prefer bagels with a thicker crust, you can leave them a little thicker before pinching and shaping. Conversely, for a chewier, denser bagel, try making them slightly smaller and cooking for a couple of minutes longer. Keeping an eye on them during the baking process and removing them when they’re golden brown ensures they won’t dry out.

Storage and Freezing Tips

These Soft Greek Yogurt Breakfast Bagels can be easily made ahead and stored for later enjoyment. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To prolong their freshness, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. It’s best to wrap each bagel in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to enjoy a bagel, simply take one out of the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes. If you're in a hurry, you can also pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate. Just like that, you’ll have a warm, homemade breakfast ready to go!

Ingredients

For the Bagels

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey (optional)

For Topping (Optional)

Sesame seeds
Poppy seeds
Coarse sea salt
Everything bagel seasoning

Mix and match toppings to suit your taste!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the Greek yogurt and honey, mixing until a dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 6 inches long and shape it into a bagel by forming a circle and pinching the ends together.

Add Toppings

Place the shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet. If desired, brush the tops with water and sprinkle your choice of toppings.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy these delicious bagels warm or toasted!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, try adding herbs or spices directly into the dough. You can also experiment with different types of yogurt for varied taste and texture.

Flavor Pairing Suggestions

The versatility of these bagels makes them perfect for a variety of toppings according to your taste preferences. For a classic approach, spreading cream cheese is a no-brainer; add sliced cucumbers or smoked salmon to elevate it further. Alternatively, for a healthier option, topping with smashed avocado, a sprinkle of lemon juice, and red pepper flakes provides a delightful twist.

If you're feeling adventurous, try topping them with a dollop of hummus and sliced radishes for a fresh crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft texture. These bagels can even serve as a base for a mini breakfast sandwich—layer with eggs, cheese, or even bacon for a satisfying meal any time of day.

Adjusting for Dietary Needs

For gluten-free bakers, substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend can yield similar results, but make sure your blend contains xanthan gum to help maintain structure. Also, consider upping the baking powder slightly to assist in leavening since gluten-free flours often yield denser products.

If you're watching your sugar intake, you can omit the honey or replace it with a sugar substitute. The bagels will still maintain their soft texture thanks to the Greek yogurt. Just keep an eye on the consistency, as alternative sweeteners might alter the moisture content.

Experimenting with Flavor

Feel free to infuse your dough with herbs and spices for a more flavorful bagel experience. Adding dried herbs like dill or oregano can give an aromatic touch, while a pinch of garlic powder adds a savory kick. You can also mix in shredded cheese into the dough for a cheesy bagel—try sharp cheddar for a tangy bite.

For a sweeter version, consider mixing in spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg, and serve them with a sweet topping, like a honey butter or fruit preserves. Exploring these variations can make your breakfast bagels exciting and unique every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but the texture may be denser.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels vegan?

Yes! Substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use a flaxseed egg instead of honey.

→ What are some good toppings for these bagels?

Cream cheese, avocado, smoked salmon, or simply butter are all great choices!