Greek Yogurt Bagels

There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked bagels wafting through the kitchen. But what if you could recreate that cozy, bakery-style experience without the hassle of yeast or waiting for dough to rise? Enter Greek yogurt bagels—a simple, protein-packed twist on a classic favorite. These soft and chewy bagels come together in no time, making them an easy go-to for busy mornings or satisfying midday snacks. Whether baked or air-fried, Greek yogurt bagels offer a healthier alternative to store-bought options while keeping all the flavor and texture you love.

Growing up, weekend breakfasts were a big deal in my family. My mom would wake up early to prepare a spread—pancakes, eggs, and, of course, a basket of warm bagels. I remember the joy of tearing into a fresh bagel, still steaming, with a generous spread of cream cheese. Years later, when I started experimenting in my own kitchen, I wanted to recreate that feeling but with a simpler, healthier approach. That’s when I discovered the magic of Greek yogurt dough. The first time I made these bagels, I was skeptical—no yeast, no boiling, just a handful of ingredients? But the moment I pulled them out of the oven, golden brown and perfectly fluffy, I knew I had found my new breakfast staple.

Why You’ll Love These Greek Yogurt Bagels

• No yeast required – No waiting for dough to rise.
• High in protein – Thanks to the Greek yogurt, these bagels provide a satisfying protein boost.
• Quick and easy – Ready in just 30 minutes!
• Customizable – Add your favorite toppings like sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or even cinnamon sugar.
• Oven or air fryer friendly – Both methods yield perfect results.
• Weight Watchers-friendly – A great low-fat, high-protein snack.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Greek Yogurt Bagels

First: Gather Your Ingredients and Tools

To make these homemade Greek yogurt bagels, you will need:

• 1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour (or whole wheat/gluten-free mix)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup non-fat Greek yogurt (use a thick brand like Stonyfield)
• 1 egg white or whole egg (for egg wash)
• Toppings: Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or dried garlic flakes
• Baking sheet (for oven method) or air fryer

Second: Making the Dough

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the Greek yogurt and mix with a spatula until crumbly.
3. Transfer dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead 10–15 times until a tacky (but not sticky) dough forms.

Third: Shaping the Bagels

1. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions.
2. Roll each portion into a rope (about 3/4-inch thick) and connect the ends to form a bagel shape.
3. Alternatively, shape into a ball, poke a hole in the center, and stretch slightly.
4. Brush each bagel with egg wash and add your desired toppings.

Fourth: Baking or Air Frying

Oven Method:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Place bagels on a greased baking sheet.
3. Bake on the top rack for 25 minutes.
4. Let cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Air Fryer Method:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 280°F.
2. Arrange bagels in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
3. Air fry for 15–16 minutes until golden brown.
4. Let cool before cutting.

Tips for Making the Best Greek Yogurt Bagels

• Use Greek yogurt only – Regular yogurt is too watery and will make the dough sticky.
• Drain excess liquid – If your yogurt has any liquid, drain it before adding to the dough.
• Add more flour if sticky – A little extra flour helps achieve the perfect dough texture.
• Use self-rising flour – If using self-rising flour, omit the baking powder and salt.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Greek Yogurt Bagels

• Over-kneading the dough – This can make the bagels tough instead of soft and chewy.
• Skipping the egg wash – The egg wash helps create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
• Not spacing them out – The bagels expand during baking, so leave enough space on the baking sheet.

FAQs About Greek Yogurt Bagels

Are Greek yogurt bagels healthier than regular bagels?

Yes! These bagels are lower in calories, higher in protein, and made without added sugar.

Can I make Greek yogurt bagels gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix, but note that baking time may need to be adjusted.

Do Greek yogurt bagels need to be boiled?

No, these bagels do not require boiling, making them faster and easier to prepare.

How should I store homemade bagels?

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

Can I make Greek yogurt bagels in advance?

Yes! You can make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Allow it to reach room temperature before baking.

How to Customize Your Greek Yogurt Bagels

Get creative with flavors! Try these delicious variations:

• Sweet Bagels: Add cinnamon and a touch of honey.
• Cheesy Bagels: Mix shredded cheddar into the dough.
• Garlic & Herb Bagels: Stir in dried basil, oregano, and garlic powder.
• Whole Wheat Bagels: Swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.

For those who love homemade comfort food, you might also enjoy trying this Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe, which pairs beautifully with a side of these fresh bagels. If you’re in the mood for something hearty, check out this Crockpot Beef and Noodles Recipe for a satisfying dinner. And if you want another high-protein meal idea, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet is a fantastic choice.

Conclusion

Making Greek yogurt bagels at home is incredibly simple, and the results are soft, chewy, and delicious. Whether baked or air-fried, these protein-packed bagels are a fantastic alternative to traditional ones. Try this easy recipe today and let us know in the comments how you customized yours! Happy baking!

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