Greek Yogurt Honey Bagels

Name: Greek Yogurt Honey Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 egg (for egg wash); Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Planning

I love starting my mornings with a warm bagel in hand, and making these Greek Yogurt Honey Bagels is one of my favorite breakfast rituals. The combination of Greek yogurt and honey not only enriches the texture but also enhances the flavor, resulting in a bagel that’s both chewy and slightly sweet. It takes minimal effort to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weekday mornings or leisurely weekend brunches. I can hardly resist adding my favorite toppings, whether it’s cream cheese or smoked salmon.

Created by

Questa Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-03-26T22:46:38.472Z

When I first tried my hand at baking these Greek Yogurt Honey Bagels, I was pleasantly surprised at how simple the process was. The key is to use high-quality Greek yogurt, which gives the dough a wonderful moisture and richness without needing much effort. There's nothing quite like pulling a fresh batch from the oven and smelling that warm, sweet aroma wafting through my kitchen.

What I love most about these bagels is their versatility. Not only can I enjoy them plain, but they also pair beautifully with all kinds of toppings. Whether it’s a dollop of cream cheese, a drizzle of extra honey, or a sprinkle of seeds, each bagel turns out delicious and satisfying. I've even experimented with adding herbs to the dough for a savory twist!

Why You Will Love These Bagels

Soft and chewy with a hint of sweetness
Quick recipe that requires no boiling
Healthier option thanks to Greek yogurt
Perfectly pairs with both sweet and savory toppings

The Role of Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a key ingredient in these bagels, providing moisture and tenderness without the need for additional fats. Its high protein content not only enriches the dough but also contributes to the bagel's chewy texture. When mixed with honey, the yogurt creates a beautifully cohesive dough that holds together well during shaping.

Additionally, the tanginess of the Greek yogurt pairs perfectly with the sweetness of honey, balancing flavors in a way that regular bagel recipes often lack. This unique combination results in a flavor profile that works exceptionally well with both sweet and savory toppings, making your bagel versatile for any time of the day.

Shaping and Baking Tips

When shaping the bagels, it's crucial to ensure that the hole in the center is sufficiently large. As the bagels bake, they will puff up, and a too-small hole may close up, resulting in a denser bagel. Aim for a hole that is about an inch wide; you can use your fingers to gently stretch the dough instead of poking it with a finger, which often leads to uneven shapes.

During baking, keep an eye on the color of the bagels. They should turn a lovely golden brown and feel firm to the touch. If they are browning too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) and extend the baking time by a few minutes to ensure they cook through without burning. This adjustment is especially important in ovens that may have hot spots.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix Greek yogurt and honey until well blended. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the yogurt mixture, stirring until a dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently for a minute. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces, shape each piece into a ball, and then poke a hole in the center to form a bagel.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with seeds if desired. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of garlic powder or dried herbs to the dough for a savory twist. These bagels can be stored in an airtight container for a few days, or you can freeze them for longer shelf life.

Storage and Reheating

These Greek Yogurt Honey Bagels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider freezing them. To freeze, allow the bagels to cool completely, then wrap each individually in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They will maintain their quality for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy a bagel, simply remove one from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a fresh-baked texture, you can quickly reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will help restore the crispiness of the outer layer while keeping the inside soft and chewy.

Flavor Variations

While the base recipe is delightful as is, you can customize these bagels with various add-ins. Consider mixing in some fresh herbs like chopped chives or dill into the dough for herbed bagels, or incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a sweeter twist. You can also add toppings directly into the dough, such as finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

For those who enjoy a little crunch, you can experiment with different toppings before baking. Apart from sesame and poppy seeds, try everything bagel seasoning or even crushed red pepper flakes. Just remember to keep an eye on the toppings while baking, as they can get quite dark if left in the oven too long.

Questions About Recipes

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

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

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I add toppings to the dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in herbs, cheese, or spices to the dough before shaping.

→ Why do I need to brush the bagels with egg wash?

Egg wash gives the bagels a beautiful golden color and adds a slight shine.