Soft Yogurt Bagels In The Oven

Name: Soft Yogurt Bagels In The Oven
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups self-rising flour; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); 1 egg (for egg wash); Sesame seeds or everything seasoning (for topping)

Highlighted under: Rapid Cooking Recipes

I absolutely love making soft yogurt bagels in the oven because they are incredibly simple and turn out delicious every time. The combination of creamy yogurt and self-rising flour creates a dough that’s easy to handle and results in perfectly chewy bagels. We enjoy them fresh out of the oven, topped with cream cheese or your favorite spreads. With just a few minutes of prep and baking, these bagels are a fantastic addition to our breakfast table or a tasty snack any time of the day.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:37:15.692Z

When I first tried making yogurt bagels, I was amazed at how easy they were to prepare. The yogurt gives the bagels a subtle tang, and they end up soft and fluffy. I remember the first time I pulled them out of the oven; the aromatic scent filled the kitchen, making it hard to wait for them to cool!

What really sets these bagels apart is the oven technique. Baking them at a higher temperature helps them rise beautifully and develop a nice golden color. I recommend topping them with sesame seeds or everything seasoning for an extra flavor boost.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Soft, chewy texture that's perfect for any spread
Quick and easy to make, ready in just 25 minutes
Customizable with your favorite toppings or flavors

Mastering the Dough

The dough for these yogurt bagels is intriguingly easy to work with. Self-rising flour not only provides leavening but also contributes to the chewy texture of the bagels. When mixing the yogurt and flour, aim for a soft but not sticky consistency. If you find the dough too wet, a little additional flour can help balance it out; however, be cautious not to overdo it, as this can result in denser bagels.

Kneading the dough gently for just a minute is crucial. This brief kneading helps to activate the gluten in the flour, which enhances the chew of the bagels. Over-kneading can lead to tough bagels, so keep it light and quick. You’ll know you’ve done it right when the dough is smooth and pliable, ready for shaping.

Shaping and Baking

Shaping the bagels is a fun step that also directly affects their final appearance and texture. After dividing the dough, ensure that each piece is rolled into a perfect ball; this helps with even baking. When creating the hole in the center, use your fingers gently to avoid tearing the dough. The hole should be substantial enough to prevent closing up during baking, ensuring classic bagel shapes.

Baking at 375°F (190°C) is ideal for these bagels to achieve a perfect golden-brown crust while retaining a soft interior. Watch closely in the last few minutes of baking; when the tops are golden and firm to the touch, it's time to remove them from the oven. Letting them cool on a wire rack allows air to circulate around them, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your soft yogurt bagels:

Ingredients

2 cups self-rising flour
1 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds or everything seasoning (for topping)

Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you're ready to start making your bagels!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your soft yogurt bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and yogurt. If desired, add honey for sweetness. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for a minute. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then use your fingers to poke a hole in the center, shaping it into a bagel.

Preheat the Oven

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

Apply Egg Wash

In a small bowl, beat the egg. Brush the top of each bagel with the egg wash and sprinkle with your choice of toppings.

Bake

Place the bagels on the baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Enjoy warm with your favorite spreads!

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, mix in herbs, garlic powder, or cheese into the dough before shaping the bagels. You can also boil the bagels for a chewy texture before baking them.

Ingredient Insights

Using plain yogurt is key in keeping these bagels moist and tender. It also adds a slight tanginess, enhancing the flavor profile. If you're looking for alternatives, Greek yogurt can be used for a thicker consistency, while dairy-free yogurt options, such as coconut or almond-based yogurts, work well as substitutes for those with dietary restrictions. Just ensure any alternative you choose is plain and unsweetened.

Honey is an optional ingredient here but can add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors. If you prefer a sugar-free option, consider using agave syrup or even omitting sweeteners altogether for a more neutral-flavored bagel.

Serving Suggestions

These bagels are delightful fresh out of the oven, but their versatility shines through when it comes to serving. Top them with classic cream cheese, or for a healthier option, try Greek yogurt spread with fresh herbs. They also pair wonderfully with smoked salmon, capers, and dill for a brunch delight. Experiment with various spreads—avocado or nut butter also make excellent choices.

Storing your bagels is straightforward; they can be kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, slice each bagel in half, freeze them individually, and toast directly from frozen. This way, you'll always have a delicious bagel at your fingertips for a quick breakfast or snack!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt works great and will give your bagels an even creamier texture.

→ What if I don't have self-rising flour?

You can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt: 1 cup of flour, 1.5 tsp of baking powder, and 0.5 tsp of salt per cup.

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Absolutely! Just ensure they are completely cooled before wrapping them tightly and storing them in the freezer. They can be reheated directly from frozen.

→ How can I customize the flavor of these bagels?

Feel free to add spices, finely chopped herbs, or even grated cheese to the dough for unique flavor combinations.