Soft Homemade Bagels With Yogurt

Name: Soft Homemade Bagels With Yogurt
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 cup water (as needed); 1 egg (for egg wash); Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Fast Easy Meals Favorites

I love making bagels at home, and this recipe for Soft Homemade Bagels With Yogurt has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. The yogurt not only adds a touch of creaminess but also helps keep the bagels soft and tender. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip these up in no time. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about crafting your own bagels—from boiling them to getting that perfect golden crust. Whether enjoyed plain or topped with a scrumptious spread, these bagels are sure to impress my family and friends.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-03-05T06:06:53.788Z

When I first attempted to make bagels with yogurt, I was skeptical about how they would turn out, but I was genuinely surprised by the results. The yogurt not only adds flavor but also helps create a dough that’s easy to work with. After mixing the ingredients and letting the dough rest briefly, I was ready to get my hands a little messy, which is part of the fun.

The boiling process is what gives these bagels their distinctive texture. I found that simmering them just for a minute on each side ensures they come out perfectly chewy and golden. Letting them bake until the tops are a nice crusty brown adds to the overall appeal and taste!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Incredibly soft texture that stays fresh longer
Quick to prepare, making them perfect for a weekday breakfast
Versatile base for all your favorite toppings, from cream cheese to smoked salmon

The Role of Yogurt in Bagel Making

Using yogurt in your bagel recipe enhances the texture significantly. It contributes to the bagels' tenderness and moisture, preventing them from becoming overly dense. The slight acidity of the yogurt also helps develop a more complex flavor, making each bite more satisfying. If you prefer a dairy-free option, a thick plant-based yogurt can work as a substitute, maintaining similar moisture levels while still yielding a soft bagel.

When mixing the dough, you may notice that yogurt makes the blend a bit stickier than using just water. This is perfectly fine; just ensure you add flour gradually as you knead. This way, you can control the texture. For a visual cue, the dough should be smooth and slightly tacky, not rolling off your hand entirely. If you find it too sticky to handle, dust your working surface with a bit of flour.

Achieving Bagel Perfection

Boiling the bagels before baking is crucial to achieving that signature chewy crust. The boiling process seals in moisture, which results in a uniquely textured bagel. Make sure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the bagels, and keep an eye on the cooking time. Each side should be boiled for about one minute; overcooking can lead to overly tough bagels. Under-cooking may cause them to collapse or lose shape during baking.

When it comes to baking, preheating your oven is essential. A steady temperature of 375°F (190°C) ensures that the bagels cook evenly. Place your bagels at the center of the oven to promote even browning, and if you're looking for extra crispness, consider using a baking stone or preheated baking sheet. The visual cue here is a golden-brown crust that forms during the baking process.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your soft bagels:

Bagel Ingredients

1 cup plain yogurt
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 cup water (as needed)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)

Make sure to have your toppings ready if you plan to get creative!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your homemade bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add water until it reaches a workable consistency.

Knead and Shape the Bagels

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Poke a hole in the center of each ball and stretch it to form the bagel shape.

Boil the Bagels

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Carefully drop the bagels into the boiling water, cooking each side for about 1 minute. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the bagels with whisked egg and sprinkle with seeds if desired. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Allow the bagels to cool slightly before enjoying them fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding herbs to the dough or top with everything bagel seasoning before baking.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover bagels, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Slice the bagels in half and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy one, you can toast it directly from frozen, or let it thaw at room temperature and then toast for a fresher taste.

To reheat, simply toast them until golden brown or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method brings back the freshness and makes the bagels extra soft and chewy. If you're adding toppings like cream cheese, consider spreading it on while the bagels are still warm for an even creamier texture.

Topping Ideas and Variations

The fun doesn’t stop at making bagels; it extends to all the delicious toppings you can experiment with! Classic cream cheese is always a hit, but you could also try flavored cream cheeses, homemade herb spreads, or even hummus. For a more savory experience, layer smoked salmon with capers and red onions atop your bagels. Whichever route you choose, feel free to get creative with textures and flavors.

If you prefer a sweet twist, consider topping your bagels with nut butter and honey or fresh fruits. You can also mix in toppings directly into the dough before shaping your bagels, such as herbs for a savory flavor or cinnamon and sugar for a sweet delight. This creates not just visual interest but also varied taste profiles that keep breakfast exciting!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt for this recipe?

Yes, Greek yogurt works well and will add a little extra tang to your bagels.

→ 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?

Certainly! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it has a binding agent.

→ What other toppings can I use?

You can experiment with various toppings like garlic powder, sea salt, or dried herbs for different flavors.