Healthy Bagels Made with Greek Yogurt

These Fluffy & Healthy Greek Yogurt Bagels are the ultimate weekday breakfast hack—soft, chewy, and golden, with a tender crumb that rivals your favorite bakery. Made without yeast, no boiling required, and packed with protein from Greek yogurt, these bagels come together in just 30 minutes and are endlessly customizable.

Perfect for meal prep, kids’ lunchboxes, or a cozy Sunday brunch, these bagels are proof that healthy can still mean satisfying.

Why These Bagels Work (and Why You’ll Make Them Every Week)

Traditional bagels require a yeast rise, boiling, and sometimes hours of prep. This Greek yogurt version flips the script—using just a handful of ingredients to create bagels that are shockingly close in taste and texture to the real thing.

They’re fluffy on the inside, lightly crisped on the outside, and can be topped with anything from sesame seeds to cinnamon sugar. Best of all? They contain fewer carbs, more protein, and no refined oil or preservatives—making them a smarter option for breakfast or snacks.

Ingredient Breakdown: What’s in Healthy Greek Yogurt Bagels?

Let’s go over the key ingredients and why each one is essential for texture, flavor, and structure.

1. Self-Rising Flour

This is the backbone of the recipe. It already contains baking powder and salt, eliminating the need for yeast. It creates a tender, slightly chewy dough that mimics traditional bagels.

Don’t have self-rising flour? Mix 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1½ tsp baking powder + ¼ tsp salt.

2. Plain Greek Yogurt

Thick, tangy Greek yogurt binds the dough and gives it moisture without fat or sugar. It adds protein, helps with rise, and keeps the bagels soft on the inside.

Use full-fat or 2% for the best texture. Avoid nonfat, as it can lead to a dry crumb.

3. Egg Wash

A simple whisked egg gives the bagels a shiny, golden top. It also helps toppings stick.

4. Toppings (Optional but Recommended)

Go savory or sweet. Here are a few popular options:

Everything bagel seasoning
Sesame or poppy seeds
Cinnamon sugar
Grated cheddar or Parmesan
Dried onion or garlic flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Fluffy Greek Yogurt Bagels

You’ll be shocked at how easy these are to make with no yeast or rising time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt until a shaggy dough forms. Use a fork at first, then your hands to knead the dough in the bowl for about 2 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky.

Step 3: Divide and Shape

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into 4 equal pieces for standard bagels (or 6 for minis). Roll each into a rope and form into a ring, pinching the ends together.

Pro tip: Dust your hands with flour if the dough is sticky, but don’t add too much or the bagels will become dry.

Step 4: Add Toppings

Place the shaped bagels onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with egg wash. Add your choice of toppings while the egg is still wet so they stick well.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 20–22 minutes or until golden brown. For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end (watch carefully to avoid burning).

Step 6: Cool Slightly & Serve

Let bagels cool on the tray for 10 minutes before slicing or storing. They’re best enjoyed warm or toasted.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Tips for Perfect Texture

Don’t overmix the dough. It should come together but remain soft—overworking makes it tough.
Use full-fat Greek yogurt. It makes the dough more pliable and keeps the crumb moist.
Egg wash matters. It’s what gives you that glossy, bakery-style top.

Flavor Variations

Cheddar Jalapeño: Mix shredded cheddar into the dough and top with sliced jalapeños.
Cinnamon Raisin: Add 1 tsp cinnamon and 2 tbsp raisins to the dough, and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
Garlic Herb: Add dried oregano, basil, and garlic powder to the dough or topping.
Sweet Bagels: Skip the salt and top with coarse sugar or drizzle with honey post-bake.

Ingredient Swaps

Dairy-Free: Use a thick plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond. The dough may be slightly softer, so reduce yogurt by 1–2 tbsp.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour with 1½ tsp baking powder and ¼ tsp salt added.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

These healthy Greek yogurt bagels are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed:

As Breakfast Sandwiches: Add scrambled eggs, turkey bacon, or avocado.
Post-Workout Snack: Top with almond butter and banana slices for protein and carbs.
For Meal Prep: Make a double batch, slice, and freeze for busy mornings.
Brunch Boards: Serve with lox, cream cheese, capers, and fresh dill.
Kids’ Lunchboxes: Make mini versions with fun toppings and spreads.

Nutrition & Health Highlights

These bagels are lower in calories, higher in protein, and free of preservatives—making them a clean and filling option. Here’s why they’re a smart swap:

Protein-Rich: Each bagel contains about 10–12g of protein thanks to Greek yogurt.
Fewer Carbs: Compared to traditional bagels, these offer a lighter carb load.
Gut-Friendly: Yogurt offers probiotics that support digestion.
Lower Fat: Using yogurt instead of oil or butter reduces overall fat content.
Customizable Nutrition: Add flax, chia seeds, or whole wheat flour for more fiber.

Pair one with a boiled egg or cottage cheese for a satisfying, balanced breakfast.

FAQ: Fluffy Greek Yogurt Bagels

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the dough and refrigerate it (covered) for up to 24 hours. Let it sit at room temp for 15 minutes before shaping.

2. How do I store these bagels?

Store in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Toast before eating for the best texture.

3. Can I freeze these bagels?

Absolutely. Slice them first for easy toasting, then freeze in zip-top bags for up to 3 months. Toast straight from frozen.

4. Why is my dough sticky?

It’s normal for the dough to feel slightly tacky. If it’s too sticky to work with, dust your hands or work surface lightly with flour. Avoid adding too much or the bagels will be dry.

5. Do I need to boil them like traditional bagels?

Nope! These are no-boil bagels, thanks to the self-rising flour and yogurt combo. The result is still fluffy and chewy.

6. Can I make mini bagels with this recipe?

Yes! Divide the dough into 6–8 pieces instead of 4. Bake for 15–18 minutes, keeping an eye on color.

7. Can I make these without self-rising flour?

Yes. Just use 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1½ tsp baking powder, and ¼ tsp salt as a homemade self-rising substitute.

Tasty Recipes Card

Description:
These easy, no-yeast Greek yogurt bagels are soft, fluffy, and made with just a few healthy ingredients. No boiling required—ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for meal prep or breakfast on the go.

Ingredients:

1 cup self-rising flour
1 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or full-fat)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional toppings: everything seasoning, sesame seeds, cinnamon sugar, shredded cheese

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
In a bowl, mix self-rising flour and Greek yogurt until dough forms.
Knead for 2–3 minutes until smooth and pliable.
Divide into 4 pieces, roll into ropes, and shape into rings.
Place on baking sheet. Brush with egg wash and add toppings.
Bake 20–22 minutes or until golden. Broil 1–2 minutes for extra browning.
Cool 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes:

For gluten-free, use 1:1 GF flour + 1½ tsp baking powder + ¼ tsp salt.
For dairy-free, use thick plant-based yogurt and adjust moisture.
Freeze after baking and slicing for easy breakfasts.

Details:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 standard bagels