Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels

Name: Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 cup self-raising flour; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen

I love making Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels for breakfast because they are not only delicious but also pack a protein punch. The creamy yogurt makes the dough moist and gives it a tender crumb. What I find most appealing is that these bagels can be prepared quickly, with no long rising times, making them perfect for busy mornings. Topped with your favorite spreads or enjoyed plain, they always leave me feeling satisfied yet light. These bagels are a great way to start my day with energy!

Created by

Vanessa Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:13:35.010Z

When I started experimenting with Greek yogurt in my baking, I was amazed by how it transformed the texture and flavor of traditional recipes. This was particularly evident in my bagels, which turned out dense yet airy, providing a perfect base for any toppings. I discovered that using yogurt not only boosts the protein content but also enhances the moistness.

To craft the ideal texture, I recommend using plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt, as it balances nicely with the flour. Avoid over-mixing the dough to maintain a lightness that is essential for a perfect bagel. These little tweaks made a world of difference in my kitchen!

        Why You'll Love These Bagels
        High protein content from Greek yogurt keeps you full longer
Quick to prepare, requiring no long fermentation
Versatile base for sweet or savory toppings
Soft and chewy texture that's hard to resist

      

The Role of Greek Yogurt

Using plain Greek yogurt is a game changer in this recipe. Not only does it contribute to the impressive protein content, but it also keeps the bagels wonderfully moist. The yogurt’s acidity helps to tenderize the dough, resulting in a light and fluffy interior. When combining the yogurt with self-raising flour, it’s crucial to mix until a cohesive dough forms, which should take just a few minutes. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tougher bagels.

For those who are dairy-free or lactose intolerant, a thick, dairy-free yogurt can serve as an excellent substitute for Greek yogurt. Be sure to select a brand that adds stabilizers to ensure it mimics the texture of Greek yogurt. This swap will maintain the moisture level in the dough, ensuring you still achieve a delightful bagel.

Shaping Your Bagels

Shaping the bagels is a critical step that influences both their texture and appearance. When rolling the dough into balls, make sure they are uniform in size, typically about 4 ounces each. This ensures they bake evenly. My tip for creating a perfect hole is to use your thumb to poke through the center, then gently stretch it as needed to avoid tearing. They will expand during baking, so make sure the holes are well-formed.

If you’re new to bagel making, you might feel apprehensive about the hole-shaping process. A valid trick is to roll the ball into a snake shape and then connect the ends to form a ring. This method might feel more intuitive for beginners and can yield bagels with a more even texture throughout.

Baking Tips for Perfect Bagels

To achieve the perfect golden-brown bagels, pay attention to the baking time and monitor your oven’s accuracy using an oven thermometer. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, but since oven temperatures can vary, you may want to check them around the 15-minute mark. The bagels should be firm to the touch and have a slightly glossy exterior. If they are browning too quickly, consider lowering the temperature slightly to prevent burning while ensuring they cook through.

Storage is also essential for these bagels. If you want to enjoy them later, let the bagels cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They freeze well too! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag; just pop them in the toaster when you’re ready to eat for a quick breakfast option.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your own Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels.

Bagel Ingredients

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 cup self-raising flour
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt to taste

These ingredients combine perfectly to form the dough for your bagels.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your homemade Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and self-raising flour until a dough forms.

Add Flavorings

Stir in the egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and poke a hole through the center to shape into bagels.

Bake

Place the formed bagels on the lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy the satisfaction of baking your own bagels!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, feel free to add herbs or cheese directly into the dough before shaping.

Creative Topping Ideas

One of the best things about these Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels is their versatility. While they are delicious plain, they can also be dressed up with a variety of toppings. For a savory option, spread with cream cheese and top with sliced cucumbers and dill. If you prefer sweet, try a layer of Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey, fresh fruit, or even nut butter. The choice is yours, allowing you to customize each bagel to suit your mood.

Another idea for topping is to mix spices into your Greek yogurt to create a flavored spread. Consider blending in herbs like chives or sun-dried tomatoes, or spices like cinnamon or cocoa for a unique flair. This allows you to modify the flavor profile of your bagels easily and keeps breakfast exciting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your dough feels too sticky when mixing, try adding a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable. On the other hand, if the dough is crumbly and doesn't hold together, a bit more Greek yogurt can help bring it back to a cohesive state. Remember, the consistency should be slightly tacky but not overly sticky.

For those inexperienced with baking, one common mistake can be overbaking the bagels due to distractions. Keep an eye on them for those last few minutes, as they can quickly go from perfect to overdone. Should this happen, you can simply top with a spread to mask any dryness when serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

It's best to stick to Greek yogurt as it provides the protein and texture needed for the bagels.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer freshness.

→ Can I add toppings to the bagels before baking?

Absolutely! You can sprinkle toppings like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning before baking.

→ Are these bagels gluten-free?

This recipe uses self-raising flour, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, consider using a gluten-free flour blend.