Yogurt Bagels With Baking Powder

Name: Yogurt Bagels With Baking Powder
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional); Water for boiling; Toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Highlighted under: Soft Kitchen

I love making yogurt bagels with baking powder because they are so easy and satisfying! Using yogurt not only adds moisture, but it also helps to create a tender texture that’s hard to resist. This method means I can whip up a fresh batch of bagels in no time, perfect for breakfast or a snack. Plus, they are customizable; I often play around with toppings like everything seasoning or sesame seeds, depending on my mood. Trust me, you’ll appreciate how simple yet delightful these bagels are!

Created by

Leonie Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-02-14T22:18:37.300Z

When I first tried making bagels using yogurt, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. The combination of Greek yogurt and baking powder eliminated the need for proofing yeast, making the process much quicker. I remember the first batch coming out perfectly golden and fluffy, prompting me to create more with various flavors. It's become a weekend favorite in my house!

One tip I’ve picked up is to sprinkle sesame seeds on top before baking for a nutty finish. Also, make sure to boil the bagels briefly before baking; this step ensures they achieve that signature chewiness. Trust me, once you try these, you'll never want to go back to store-bought!

Reasons You'll Love These Bagels

Easy to make with pantry staples
Great texture with a slight chew
Customizable with various toppings

Perfecting the Dough

The dough for these yogurt bagels benefits from a straightforward mix of ingredients. Using Greek yogurt not only provides moisture but also adds a slight tanginess that enhances flavor. When combining the dry and wet ingredients, it’s crucial to mix until no flour streaks remain; this ensures a cohesive dough. Don’t worry if it feels slightly sticky at first; a little extra flour on your work surface will help you knead it into a ball without incorporating too much additional flour, which could toughen the bagels.

When kneading, aim for a smooth texture that takes about 2-3 minutes. Keep in mind that over-kneading can lead to tough bagels, so stop when the dough feels elastic and slightly less sticky. If the dough is too sticky, lightly flour your hands and surface but resist the urge to add too much flour. The ideal dough should be workable while maintaining some moisture, giving the bagels their characteristic chew.

Shaping and Boiling

Shaping the bagels is where the fun begins! After dividing the dough into 8 equal pieces, rolling each piece into a 12-inch rope creates the perfect ring shape. Ensure the ends are tightly sealed; if they aren’t, your bagels might come apart during boiling. Use a little extra flour if necessary to help mold the dough without sticking. This shaping process contributes to the bagels’ traditional appearance and gives them a well-defined outer crust when baked.

Boiling the bagels before baking is essential and serves a dual purpose: it helps create that chewy texture we love and enhances the browning during the baking process. Boil them in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot, as each bagel needs enough space to float. You'll know they’re ready to turn when they puff up slightly. Letting them boil for 1-2 minutes on each side yields a perfectly textured bagel with a golden crust.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your yogurt bagels with baking powder:

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional)
Water for boiling
Toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to start making these delicious bagels!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your yogurt bagels perfectly:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well before adding the yogurt and honey or sugar. Stir until a dough begins to form.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead gently for about 2-3 minutes until smooth, then shape it into a ball.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and shape it into a ring, ensuring the ends are sealed together.

Boil the Bagels

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Carefully drop each bagel into the boiling water, cooking for 1-2 minutes per side. Remove and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment.

Add Toppings

If desired, sprinkle the tops with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning before baking.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the bagels for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the bagels to cool on a wire rack before slicing and enjoying them with your favorite spreads!

Enjoy your freshly made yogurt bagels as a delightful breakfast or snack!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding herbs or spices to the dough to infuse more flavor. They also freeze well, so you can make a double batch and save some for later.

Storage and Freezing Tips

These yogurt bagels are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, simply toast directly from frozen—this step revives their chewy texture beautifully.

If you plan for make-ahead breakfasts, you can even boil the bagels, let them cool completely, and then freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to bake, go straight from the freezer to the oven. Just remember to adjust your baking time slightly, adding around 5 extra minutes to ensure they become golden brown and bubbly.

Flavor Variations

These bagels invite creativity when it comes to toppings. While everything seasoning is a classic, try adding dried herbs like oregano or basil for an Italian twist. For a sweet option, sprinkle the tops with cinnamon and sugar before baking. Mixing in seeds or herbs into the dough during the initial mixing step can also offer a unique flavor profile; just be sure to adjust the salt if using salty toppings like feta.

Moreover, using different types of yogurt can subtly change the flavor and texture. If you want a tangier result, opt for a full-fat yogurt. For a lighter version, low-fat varieties work well too, but make sure they’re still thick to create that ideal dough. Experimenting with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or almond flour for gluten-free options, can also yield delicious results, adjusting the water accordingly to achieve the right consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-Greek yogurt?

Yes, but Greek yogurt provides a thicker texture that works best for bagels.

→ How can I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add flavors to the dough?

Absolutely! Consider mixing in garlic powder, onion powder, or chopped herbs.

→ What if my dough is too sticky?

You can add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.