Yogurt Bagels With Baking Powder

Name: Yogurt Bagels With Baking Powder
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 1 egg (for egg wash); Sesame seeds or everything seasoning (optional)

Highlighted under: Modern Kitchen

When I first decided to make bagels at home, I was unsure if I could achieve that perfect, chewy texture. However, my curiosity led me to try this simple yogurt-based recipe using baking powder. The results exceeded my expectations! These bagels are not only easy to make but also require minimal ingredients. With just a mix of yogurt, flour, and a few key seasonings, I crafted these delightful bagels that have quickly become a staple in my kitchen. They are ready to enjoy in under 30 minutes!

Created by

Rhiannon Sutherland

Last updated on 2026-03-20T22:18:26.640Z

I've made these yogurt bagels several times now and they never cease to amaze me. The secret lies in the yogurt, which adds moisture and tanginess to the bagels. I particularly love that they are incredibly quick to whip up, allowing me to enjoy a fresh batch in no time. Whether topped with cream cheese or enjoyed plain, these bagels are delightful.

Another tip I discovered is to let the dough rest briefly after mixing. This minor step makes a significant difference in the texture, resulting in an even chewier bagel. Plus, they're a fantastic excuse to play with your toppings—everything from sesame seeds to everything seasoning works beautifully!

Why You'll Love These Bagels

Quick and simple preparation with minimal ingredients
Deliciously chewy texture that's hard to resist
Versatile toppings to suit any taste preference

Understanding the Dough

The dough for these yogurt bagels is unique because it relies heavily on the Greek yogurt, which adds moisture and contributes to a chewy texture. The protein content in Greek yogurt helps create structure in the bagel, allowing it to maintain its shape during baking. The all-purpose flour provides a good balance of strength without making the bagels too heavy.

When mixing the dough, it's important to combine the ingredients just until they come together. Overmixing can lead to dense bagels, which isn’t the goal here. Look for a dough that feels slightly tacky but not overly sticky; this indicates the right balance of moisture from the yogurt and dryness from the flour.

Tips for Shaping and Baking

Shaping the bagels is a fun part of the process! After rolling the dough into balls, ensure you poke the hole in the center large enough to maintain its shape during baking. The hole can close up as the bagels rise in the oven, so aim for about a 1- to 1.5-inch diameter hole.

When baking, keep an eye on the color of the bagels. They should develop a nice golden-brown crust, which usually takes about 15 minutes in the oven. Your kitchen will start to smell wonderful, signaling that the bagels are close to being done. If you prefer a deeper color, you can increase the baking time by a couple of minutes, just watch to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

Bagel Ingredients

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 egg (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds or everything seasoning (optional)

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir until a dough begins to form.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes until it's smooth and elastic.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 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

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

Add Toppings

Brush the tops of the bagels with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds or your favorite seasoning if desired.

Bake the Bagels

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving warm.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding herbs or spices to the dough for a unique twist on these bagels.

Storing and Freezing

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but they do store well. If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should last for about 2 months in the freezer.

To reheat, simply pop a frozen bagel into a toaster or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will return the bagels to their chewy, delicious state, reminiscent of when they were freshly baked.

Flavor Variations

One of the best aspects of these bagels is their versatility. You can easily customize the flavor by adding herbs or spices right into the dough. For example, incorporating garlic powder or dried onion flakes can create a savory twist. Adding shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella can also enhance the flavor significantly.

Experimenting with toppings opens up even more possibilities. Instead of sesame seeds, consider trying poppy seeds, minced garlic, or even cinnamon sugar for a sweet variation. I find that adding a sprinkle of sea salt before baking elevates the flavor, providing a delightful contrast to the doughy sweetness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-fat yogurt?

Yes, you can use non-fat Greek yogurt, but the bagels may be slightly less rich in flavor and texture.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and add a bit of xanthan gum for better texture.

→ What toppings can I use?

You can use any toppings you like! Classic options include sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even garlic powder for a savory touch.