Soft Yogurt Bagels Oven Baked

Name: Soft Yogurt Bagels Oven Baked
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 egg (for egg wash); Toppings of your choice (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, etc.)

Highlighted under: Home Baking Collection

I love making these Soft Yogurt Bagels in my oven because they are incredibly easy and satisfying. The use of yogurt gives them a unique softness that’s hard to resist. With minimal ingredients and no boiling required, this recipe is perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings! I often find myself making a double batch because they disappear quickly in my house. They're not just bagels; they’re a delicious way to start the day!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:45:35.785Z

Making Soft Yogurt Bagels has become a little ritual for me, especially on weekends when I have more time to experiment with flavors. The secret to their softness lies in the yogurt, which keeps them moist and fluffy. I remember the first time I tried them; I was amazed by how simple they were to prepare and how delicious they turned out!

One valuable tip I discovered is to not over-knead the dough. A gentle touch is all it takes to keep them light and airy. I also love adding different toppings, like everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds, to mix things up. They’re not just breakfast – my family enjoys them as snacks or even made into sandwiches!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Soft and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Quick and simple with just a few ingredients
Customizable with your favorite toppings or seasonings

Understanding the Ingredients

The key ingredient in these Soft Yogurt Bagels is yogurt, which not only adds moisture but also acts as a leavening agent due to its acidity. This acidity reacts with baking soda to create carbon dioxide bubbles during baking, contributing to the bagels’ soft, airy texture. Using plain yogurt is essential since flavored varieties can alter the taste and consistency of the dough. You can opt for Greek yogurt for a richer flavor, but keep in mind that it may yield a slightly denser bagel.

All-purpose flour is the backbone of this recipe, providing structure and a chewy texture. If you're aiming for a lighter bagel, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with bread flour. This will enhance the chewiness due to its higher protein content. Furthermore, ensure you measure your flour correctly—using a scale is best for precision. Too much flour can lead to tough bagels, while too little can result in over-expansion and a fragile texture.

Shaping and Baking Techniques

Shaping the bagels may seem daunting, but practice makes perfect. After dividing the dough into equal portions, gently roll each piece between your palms to form a ball, then use your thumbs to poke a hole in the center and stretch it to the desired size. Aim for a hole about 1-2 inches wide, as the bagels will puff up during baking. If your dough feels too sticky while shaping, lightly dust your hands with flour to help manage the consistency without introducing too much additional flour.

When brushing the bagels with an egg wash, be generous—it not only aids in achieving a beautiful, glossy finish but also helps toppings adhere. For unique flavor additions, consider using everything bagel seasoning or even fresh herbs mixed with the egg wash before applying them. During baking, watch for a golden brown color to signal doneness; this usually takes about 20 minutes. An overbake will dry them out, while an underbake could leave them doughy in the middle, so timing is essential.

Ingredients for Soft Yogurt Bagels

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon honey
1 egg (for egg wash)
Toppings of your choice (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, etc.)

Instructions for Soft Yogurt Bagels

Preheat the oven

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

Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until well mixed.

Add wet ingredients

Add the yogurt and honey to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.

Shape the bagels

Scoop out the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and create a hole in the center, shaping it into a bagel.

Prepare for baking

Place the shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with a beaten egg and sprinkle with your preferred toppings.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool and enjoy

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before enjoying them warm.

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding minced garlic or herbs to the dough. Letting the bagels cool on a wire rack ensures they maintain their light texture.

Storage and Freezing

These bagels remain soft and delightful for a few days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. For longer preservation, consider freezing them. Once completely cooled, place the bagels in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to three months without losing quality. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or reheat directly from the freezer in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

For those who enjoy making breakfast easy, whip up a double batch and freeze half. This not only saves time on busy mornings but also keeps you stocked with a delectable, homemade option that can be customized with cream cheese, avocado, or your favorite spreads straight from the freezer.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to experiment with the toppings on your bagels. Classic choices like sesame or poppy seeds offer a nice crunch, while dried herbs such as rosemary or thyme can provide a fragrant twist. You can also fold in ingredients like shredded cheese or cooked bacon bits directly into the dough for additional flavor. Just be cautious with the amount you add to maintain the bagel's structure and softness.

Additionally, consider flavors in the yogurt itself; using a lemon-infused yogurt could impart a delightful tang. If you're looking for a sweet option, add chocolate chips or dried fruits, like cranberries or blueberries, into the mix. This not only transforms the flavor profile but also makes your bagels a fun treat any time of day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I reduce the sugar?

Absolutely! You can omit the honey or reduce the amount to your preference without affecting the dough.

→ Can I add fillings to the bagels?

Yes, feel free to add cheese, herbs, or any fillings before baking for a flavor twist!