These bagels are super simple and quick to make with just three ingredients: Greek yogurt, flour, and baking powder. They turn out soft and tasty every time!
Honestly, who knew bagels could be this easy? I love pairing them with cream cheese or avocado for breakfast. They’re perfect for busy mornings! 🥯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt gives these bagels a lovely tang and soft texture. You can use full-fat or 2% yogurt. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt, but be aware it may change the flavor and texture a bit.
Self-Rising Flour: This flour is key for rising since it contains baking powder and salt. If you don’t have it, you can make your own by mixing 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour with 2 teaspoons baking powder and ½ teaspoon salt.
Egg: An egg wash helps the bagels brown beautifully. If you’re vegan or want an egg alternative, use a mixture of 1 tablespoon plant-based milk with a dash of turmeric for color.
How Do I Knead the Dough Properly?
Kneading is essential to develop a soft, smooth dough. Start with flouring your surface lightly. Then, use the heel of your palm to push the dough away, folding it back in from the sides. Repeat this gently about 5-6 times. Don’t over-knead or it can become tough!
- Gently combine yogurt and flour until a sticky dough forms.
- Flour your hands and surface to prevent sticking while kneading.
- Be gentle to retain some airiness in the dough for soft bagels.
How to Make 3-Ingredient Greek Yogurt Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
- 1 ½ cups self-rising flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. All in all, you’ll be enjoying fresh bagels in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the bagels from sticking.
2. Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix everything until a dough begins to form. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle in a little bit of extra flour, but make sure to keep the dough soft and pliable.
3. Knead the Dough:
Take the dough to a lightly floured work surface. Gently knead the dough about 5-6 times. You want it to be soft and smooth—don’t overdo it!
4. Shape the Bagels:
Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center of each ball using your finger. Gently stretch the dough around the hole to form the classic bagel shape.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Place your shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Beat the egg in a small bowl, and brush the tops of the bagels with the egg wash. This will help them develop a nice golden color while baking.
6. Add Extra Flavor (Optional):
If you’d like, sprinkle the tops of the bagels with seeds (like sesame or poppy seeds) or spices (such as crushed red pepper flakes or garlic) for a little extra flavor and crunch.
7. Bake the Bagels:
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, plain or with your favorite spread!
These bagels are soft, slightly tangy from the yogurt, and perfect for a quick homemade treat without any yeast!
Can I Use Plain Yogurt Instead of Greek Yogurt?
While you can use plain yogurt, Greek yogurt offers a thicker consistency and a tangier flavor, which is ideal for this recipe. If you’re using regular yogurt, you may need to adjust the flour quantity to compensate for the additional moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Self-Rising Flour?
No worries! You can easily make your own self-rising flour by combining 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour with 2 teaspoons of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of salt. Just mix well and you’ll be ready to go!
Can I Freeze These Bagels?
Absolutely! After they’ve cooled completely, wrap the bagels tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for a longer shelf life, though they might get a bit firmer. Reheat them in the oven or microwave for the best results.
