These 3-ingredient Greek yogurt bagels are super easy and tasty! With just Greek yogurt, self-rising flour, and a bit of salt, you can whip up soft and chewy bagels in no time.
Don’t be surprised if you end up making these every weekend! I love adding toppings like sesame seeds or everything seasoning—they make the bagels even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Self-Rising Flour: This is a key ingredient for creating the bagel’s texture. If you don’t have it, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt.
Greek Yogurt: Full-fat Greek yogurt gives the bagels a rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lower fat option, use low-fat yogurt, but it might alter the texture slightly. Vegan yogurt can also work, but ensure it’s thick and contains a binder for proper structure.
Egg: The egg wash gives bagels a beautiful golden color and helps toppings stick. If you’re avoiding eggs, consider using a plant-based egg wash made from almond milk mixed with a bit of maple syrup or olive oil for shine.
How Do I Knead the Dough to Get the Right Texture?
Kneading is a crucial step in making bagels because it develops the gluten necessary for that chewy texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Lightly flour your hands and the work surface to prevent sticking.
- Turn the dough out and gently fold it over itself while pushing down with the palms of your hands.
- Rotate the dough a quarter turn after each fold, repeating for about 5 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. If it sticks, add a little more flour.
A little patience here goes a long way for that perfect bagel texture!
How to Make 3-Ingredient Greek Yogurt Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
BAGELS:
- 1 cup self-rising flour (plus extra for kneading)
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat for best texture)
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
OPTIONAL TOPPINGS:
- sesame seeds
- za’atar
- nigella seeds
- or any toppings you prefer!
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 40-45 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the dough and shaping the bagels, then about 25-30 minutes of baking time. It’s a simple and quick process that results in delicious homemade bagels!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, get your oven ready! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the bagels from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and the Greek yogurt. Use a spoon or your hands to mix them together until it forms a shaggy dough. Don’t worry if it looks a little messy at this stage!
3. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough gently for about 5 minutes, adding more flour as needed to prevent sticking. You want it to be smooth and elastic when you’re done.
4. Shape the Bagels:
Now it’s time to divide the dough! Cut it into 4 equal portions and roll each piece into a ball. Once you have your dough balls, poke a hole in the center of each with your fingers. Stretch each ball until you have a bagel shape with a hole about 1.5 inches wide.
5. Bake the Bagels:
Place your shaped bagels on the lined baking sheet. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the tops of the bagels for a lovely golden finish. Sprinkle on your choice of toppings.
6. Finish Baking:
Pop the bagels into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done by the delicious smell wafting through your kitchen!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once your bagels are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or let them cool to room temperature. They are fantastic with cream cheese or any spread you love!
And there you have it—soft, chewy bagels with a lightly crisp exterior, ready for serving! Happy baking!
Can I Use Regular All-Purpose Flour Instead of Self-Rising Flour?
Yes, you can! If using all-purpose flour, add 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt to mimic the leavening properties of self-rising flour.
What If I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with regular yogurt, but make sure it’s thick. Another option is to use a plant-based yogurt if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative.
Can I Prep the Bagels in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and shape the bagels, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let them come to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
How to Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in a freezer bag and freeze. Just toast them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy!
