Greek Yogurt Honey Bagels

Name: Greek Yogurt Honey Bagels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Studio

I recently discovered a delightful way to enjoy bagels that combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the sweetness of honey. These Greek Yogurt Honey Bagels are incredibly easy to make, and the result is a deliciously chewy and satisfying treat. With a short prep time and minimal ingredients, I love whipping these up for breakfast or a snack. The yogurt not only adds flavor but also keeps the bagels moist and tender. I can never resist the warm aroma filling my kitchen as they bake!

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-16T10:09:36.648Z

Making these Greek Yogurt Honey Bagels was a fun experiment for me. I began by mixing the yogurt and honey, which created a lovely sweetness that paired beautifully with the dough. I discovered that using yogurt not only enhances the flavor but also significantly reduces the need for additional fat, making these bagels a lighter option.

After baking them to a perfect golden brown, I was amazed by their texture—chewy on the outside and soft on the inside. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top added a delightful crunch and nuttiness, elevating them from ordinary bagels to something truly special.

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Deliciously chewy texture that you can't resist
Perfect sweetness from honey complements the tang of yogurt
Super simple to make with just a few ingredients

The Science of Greek Yogurt in Bagels

Greek yogurt is a star ingredient in these bagels, providing not just a distinct tang but also beneficial moisture. The proteins in yogurt help create a tender crumb while keeping the bagels from drying out. Through the baking process, the yogurt interacts with baking powder to produce a light and airy texture. Understanding this relationship can help you ensure a perfect rise and chew, making each bite memorable.

Additionally, the acidity of the yogurt strengthens the gluten structure when mixed with flour, contributing to the bagels' delightful chewiness. If you'd like a less tangy flavor, you could use regular yogurt or even buttermilk, but keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly.

Tips for Perfectly Shaped Bagels

When shaping your bagels, remember that uniformity is key. Aim for equal portions, ideally around 70 grams each, which will ensure even baking. Use your fingers to create a hole in the center, gently stretching it to about 1.5 inches in diameter. This is crucial; a smaller hole will close up as the bagels rise in the oven, resulting in denser centers.

I find that dusting your hands and work surface with a bit of flour can help manage the stickiness of the dough. If you're having trouble shaping the bagels, a little extra kneading can help the dough hold together better. Ensuring the bagels are well-formed contributes significantly to their final texture.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt

For Topping

Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)

Mix well and knead until smooth.

Instructions

Preheat Oven

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

Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, yogurt, honey, and salt. Stir until a dough forms.

Knead and Shape

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently. Divide into 8 equal pieces and shape them into bagels.

Top with Seeds

If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top of each bagel.

Bake

Place bagels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Allow to cool before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can serve these bagels with a spread of cream cheese or butter.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Greek Yogurt Honey Bagels are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but they can also be stored. Place completely cooled bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply wrap each bagel in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, storing them in the freezer for up to a month. To reheat, pop them in a toaster or oven until warmed through and crisp on the outside.

If you're preparing a batch ahead of time, you can shape the bagels and refrigerate them, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 12 hours before baking. Just let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while your oven preheats.

Serving Suggestions

These bagels are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them further with toppings! A spread of cream cheese, a drizzle of extra honey, or even avocado slices can complement the tangy flavor perfectly. For more indulgence, try adding smoked salmon or fresh tomatoes with a sprinkle of dill.

Consider turning these bagels into sandwiches, too. Their sturdy structure holds up well against fillings, making them suitable for breakfast sandwiches with eggs or lunchtime creations with deli meats and cheeses. Their versatility truly shines in different combinations, so don’t hesitate to get creative!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, low-fat yogurt can be used, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly.

→ How can I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I add toppings before baking?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as cheese or herbs before putting them in the oven.

→ What can I serve with these bagels?

They pair wonderfully with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or even just butter and jam.