Soft Greek Yogurt Bagels No Yeast

Name: Soft Greek Yogurt Bagels No Yeast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional); Egg wash (1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) for topping

Highlighted under: Sweet Bakehouse

I absolutely love making these Soft Greek Yogurt Bagels without yeast! They are the perfect blend of fluffy and chewy, making them ideal for any breakfast or brunch. The best part is that they come together so quickly—no waiting for dough to rise. Instead, I combine Greek yogurt with a few simple ingredients to create a dough that bakes up beautifully. Once you taste that deliciously soft center and slight tang from the yogurt, you'll understand why these bagels have become a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:06:36.267Z

Creating these bagels without yeast was a revelation for me. I wanted a quick breakfast solution that was both satisfying and simple to prepare. The key to their softness is the Greek yogurt, which adds moisture and flavor without the need for long rising times.

One tip I've found is to shape the bagels with a light touch to keep that fluffy texture intact. I also recommend baking on a preheated stone or baking sheet to achieve a nice crust—this tiny detail makes a noticeable difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
No yeast means no waiting for dough to rise
Light and fluffy texture with a deliciously soft center
Versatile base for sweet or savory toppings

The Role of Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is the star ingredient in these bagels, providing a lovely tang that balances the flavor perfectly. Its high protein content contributes to the bagels' chewy texture while keeping them tender and moist. The yogurt also acts as a binder in the dough, which means you won’t need any additional fats like butter or oil. If you can’t find Greek yogurt, regular yogurt will work, but the texture might be slightly different.

Using full-fat Greek yogurt will yield the best results, delivering a more decadent bagel. However, if you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with low-fat Greek yogurt; just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the creaminess and flavor. I recommend avoiding nonfat options, as they can lead to a drier outcome.

Kneading Tips for Perfect Bagels

Kneading the dough is a crucial step in achieving the right bagel texture. Aim for a gentle knead for about one minute, just until the dough is smooth but still slightly tacky. If you find the dough sticking too much to your hands, lightly dust your fingers with flour. Be cautious not to over-knead, as this can make the bagels tough rather than soft and chewy.

Additionally, if you prefer bagels with a more uniform shape, consider using a form or a bagel cutter to create even-sized holes in the center. This ensures that your bagels bake evenly and gives them a professional look. After forming, letting them rest for a few minutes can help the dough relax, making it easier to shape.

Serving Suggestions

These soft bagels are incredibly versatile and serve as a perfect canvas for a variety of toppings. For a sweet option, try spreading cream cheese and adding a drizzle of honey with a sprinkle of cinnamon. If you're in the mood for something savory, layer on smoked salmon, avocado, and a few capers for a delicious brunch treat.

Another fun way to enjoy these bagels is to add mix-ins to the dough, such as herbs, garlic powder, or even grated cheese before shaping. This not only amps up the flavor but also allows you to customize your bagels to suit your taste. They store well in an airtight container for a few days, so feel free to make a batch ahead of time!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional)
Egg wash (1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) for topping

Make sure to have these on hand before you begin!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well. Add in the Greek yogurt and honey (if using), then stir until a dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough gently for about 1 minute until just smooth. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center to form the bagel shape.

Prepare for Baking

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the egg wash for a shiny finish.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

Once cooled, enjoy your bagels warm or store them in an airtight container!

Pro Tips

Experiment with toppings like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning for added flavor and crunch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels don't rise as expected, it could be due to the baking powder being inactive. Always check the expiry date of your baking powder before using it. A quick test is to mix a teaspoon of baking powder with a bit of vinegar; if it fizzes, it's still good to use.

Another common issue is dough that's too sticky or too dry. If the dough feels excessively wet, sprinkle in extra flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. Conversely, if the dough is too dry and crumbly, add a tablespoon of yogurt or water gradually until it comes together.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To freeze, let the bagels cool completely before wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

When ready to enjoy your frozen bagels, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw on the countertop for about 30 minutes. To refresh their texture, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will bring back their softness and make them taste freshly baked again.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for gatherings or meal prepping. If you wish to double or triple the batch, simply maintain the same ratios of ingredients. Just be mindful of adjusting the baking time slightly, as multiple trays in the oven can affect cooking consistency and time.

For a smaller batch, you can easily halve the ingredients. Just remember that these bagels are best enjoyed fresh, so it's preferable to make only as many as you plan to eat at that time. If you do have leftovers, follow the storage tips outlined to keep them delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

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

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Absolutely! You can freeze the bagels for up to 3 months. Just thaw and toast before serving.

→ Is it necessary to use egg wash?

It's optional, but the egg wash gives the bagels a nice golden sheen.