Soft Yogurt Bagels In The Oven

Name: Soft Yogurt Bagels In The Oven
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups self-rising flour; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 egg (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon honey (optional); Toppings of choice (e.g., sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning)

Highlighted under: Speedy Meal Inspirations

I absolutely love making Soft Yogurt Bagels in the oven because they come together in no time and taste simply delightful. The unique combination of yogurt and self-rising flour creates a dough that is soft, chewy, and incredibly flavorful. Each bite transports me to a cozy café where I can indulge in my favorite bagel without any fuss. These bagels are perfect for breakfast or brunch, topped with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or your favorite spreads. I can't wait for you to try this easy recipe that you’re sure to love!

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:16:06.615Z

When I first attempted to make bagels, I was intimidated by the idea of boiling dough. But after discovering this Soft Yogurt Bagels recipe, I realized that I could skip that step entirely and still achieve the perfect texture! The yogurt not only adds moisture but also a hint of tanginess that pairs beautifully with any toppings.

What sets these bagels apart is their quick preparation time. In just about 30 minutes, I can have freshly baked bagels, which makes them a go-to recipe for busy mornings. I love experimenting with toppings, whether it's sesame seeds or a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for that extra crunch.

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Quick and easy preparation with minimal ingredients
Perfectly soft and chewy texture every time
Versatile for sweet or savory toppings

Perfecting the Dough

The key to achieving the perfect texture for your Soft Yogurt Bagels lies in the balance of yogurt and self-rising flour. Self-rising flour contains baking powder and salt, which is essential for the rise and flavor of the bagels. Make sure to use plain Greek yogurt, as its thicker consistency provides the necessary moisture without making the dough too sticky. If you find the dough too tacky, a dusting of extra flour during kneading helps but be careful not to overdo it, as too much flour can lead to dense bagels.

Kneading the dough is a crucial step that affects the final outcome. Aim to knead for about 3-5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. This not only helps to develop the gluten, creating that ideal chewy texture but also incorporates air into the dough, contributing to a lighter bagel. If you're not familiar with kneading techniques, try folding the dough over itself and pressing down with the palm of your hand to build strength.

Shaping for Success

When shaping the bagels, divide the dough into pieces of roughly equal size—this ensures uniform cooking and consistent texture. Rolling each piece into a tight ball and then creating a hole in the center is vital for that classic bagel shape. Aim for a hole that's about one to two inches in diameter. Remember, the bagels will puff up during baking, and if the hole is too small, it could close up entirely, leaving you with a bread roll instead of a bagel.

For added flair, consider experimenting with different toppings. Traditional options like sesame or poppy seeds can easily be enhanced by mixing in everything bagel seasoning or even a sprinkle of coarse salt. Not only do these toppings add flavor, but they also contribute to an inviting visual appeal. Try pressing the toppings lightly into the bagels before baking to ensure they adhere well and don’t fall off during the baking process.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make delicious Soft Yogurt Bagels in the oven:

Ingredients

2 cups self-rising flour
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Toppings of choice (e.g., sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt. Mix until a dough begins to form, then knead gently on a floured surface until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into equal pieces (about 8). Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center using your finger to shape it into a bagel.

Preheat the Oven

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

Prepare for Baking

Place the shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each bagel with beaten egg and sprinkle with your desired toppings.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your homemade bagels fresh from the oven!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can make your own by mixing all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Once your bagels have cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cooled bagels in a zip-top freezer bag, separating them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or toast directly from frozen for a quick breakfast treat.

Reheating is simple and helps retain that fresh-baked taste. For best results, pop your bagels in a toaster or toaster oven until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. You can also wrap them in foil and warm them in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method ensures that the bagels don’t dry out while heating.

Flavor Variations

Get creative with your bagel flavor profiles by incorporating ingredients into the dough. Try adding finely chopped herbs like dill or chives for a savory touch, or mix in grated cheese for a cheesy bagel experience. If you prefer sweet bagels, consider folding in cinnamon and raisins or even chocolate chips for a delicious breakfast treat. These additions can elevate your bagels from basic to spectacular, making them a delightful indulgence any time of the day.

You can also play with toppings beyond the classic options. Brush the shaped bagels with olive oil instead of egg wash and top them with Italian seasoning or a blend of your favorite spices. This simple swap can provide a different yet delicious flavor experience, transforming your bagels for thematic brunches or casual snacking. Don't hesitate to experiment with different combinations to discover your own perfect bagel.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but Greek yogurt yields a better texture. If using regular yogurt, you may need to adjust the flour consistency.

→ How do 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! Use a gluten-free self-rising flour blend for a gluten-free version of these bagels.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

I love using sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning for a classic touch, but you can get creative with your favorites!