Oven Baked Yogurt Bagels

Name: Oven Baked Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour; 1 egg (for egg wash); Sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Highlighted under: Oven Meals

I love making Oven Baked Yogurt Bagels as a quick and healthy breakfast option. The combination of yogurt and self-rising flour creates such a light and fluffy texture, making each bagel a delightful treat. Plus, the preparation is so simple that I can whip these up in no time. Whether topped with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or simply enjoyed plain, these bagels have become a staple in my kitchen. The fact that they require no yeast means I can indulge in freshly baked goodness without the long wait!

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:09:34.679Z

I remember the first time I tried making these bagels; I was amazed by how easy it was to achieve that perfect bagel texture right in my oven. The addition of yogurt not only keeps the bagels moist but also infuses them with a subtle tang that elevates their flavor. Every batch emerges golden and inviting from the oven, making my kitchen smell irresistible!

To make these bagels even more flavorful, I sometimes sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top before baking. It’s a simple addition, but it makes all the difference. I’ve experimented with different toppings and fillings, but I always return to the basics because they simply never disappoint.

Why You'll Love These Bagels
Quick and easy to prepare with just two main ingredients
Deliciously fluffy texture that rivals traditional bagels
Customizable with your favorite toppings

Mastering the Dough

The dough for these bagels is created using a simple mixture of plain yogurt and self-rising flour. This combination is what gives the bagels their fluffy texture, mimicking that of traditional bagels made with yeast. Self-rising flour already contains baking powder and salt, which aids in achieving the right rise. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt for every cup you need.

When mixing the ingredients, it’s important to combine them just enough to form a cohesive dough. Overmixing can results in tough bagels, so be gentle and stop as soon as everything is incorporated. Use your hands to bring the dough together; if it feels too sticky, you can sprinkle a little more flour on your work surface to help with shaping.

Shaping Your Bagels

Shaping the bagels correctly is crucial to creating that iconic shape and bite. To form the bagels, divide the dough into four equal portions, then gently roll each piece into a ball. Use your thumb to create a hole in the center of each ball to form the bagel shape. Keep in mind that the hole should be about a finger's width, as the dough will puff up during baking, and you don’t want the hole to disappear completely.

If you find the dough too sticky while shaping, lightly dust your hands and the working surface with flour. This will prevent sticking and ensure clean edges. After shaping, let the bagels rest briefly on the baking sheet before brushing them with the egg wash; this will help them hold their shape during baking.

Perfecting Toppings and Storage

Customizing your bagels with toppings is a fun way to enhance their flavor. When brushing with the egg wash, you can sprinkle sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning to add extra texture and taste. For even distribution, consider placing the toppings in a shallow bowl and rolling the tops of the bagels lightly in the seeds. Just remember not to overload them, as that can weigh them down and impact the baking process.

These bagels can be stored at room temperature for a day or two, but to keep them fresh for longer, consider freezing them. Place them in a zip-top bag, ensuring all the air is removed, and they’ll last for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply toast them from frozen, or reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful bagels:

Ingredients

1 cup plain yogurt
1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
1 egg (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start the baking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your bagels:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt and self-rising flour until a dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then create a hole in the center to shape it into a bagel.

Prepare for Baking

Place the shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Beat the egg and brush it over each bagel for a golden finish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning if desired.

Bake the Bagels

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the bagels are golden brown.

Let the bagels cool slightly before enjoying!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different toppings and fillings to customize your bagels. They also freeze well if you'd like to make a larger batch.

Variations on the Recipe

While yogurt and self-rising flour serve as the base of this recipe, you can experiment with adding flavors directly into the dough. Consider folding in finely chopped herbs like rosemary or dill for a savory twist. Alternatively, you could incorporate cinnamon and a bit of sugar for a sweet version, perfect for breakfast with cream cheese or jam.

Another fun variation is to create mini bagels for bite-sized snacks. Simply divide your dough into smaller portions and adjust the baking time slightly; mini bagels may only need around 15-18 minutes in the oven for a perfect bake.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels come out too dense, ensure you haven’t over-kneaded the dough. Gentle folding is key to keeping them light and airy. Also, the freshness of your yogurt impacts the dough's rise—older yogurt lack the acidity that helps in proper leavening, so always use fresh yogurt.

Another issue can be uneven browning; this might occur if your oven isn’t calibrated correctly. An oven thermometer can help ensure accurate temperatures. Lastly, if the tops aren't browning as desired, consider placing them under the broiler for the last minute to achieve that golden finish. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning!

Serving Suggestions

These bagels are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. For a classic breakfast, I love slathering them with cream cheese and adding smoked salmon, capers, and a squeeze of lemon. If you're feeling indulgent, try making a breakfast sandwich with an egg, avocado, and your choice of cheese for a protein-packed meal.

For a lighter option, serve the bagels sliced with a refreshing cucumber salad on the side or enjoy them with a simple fruit spread. They also make great snacks, ideal for pairing with soups or salads for a light lunch. The adaptability of these bagels is one of the reasons they have become a staple in my kitchen!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?

Yes, but you will need to add a leavening agent like baking powder or baking soda.

→ How should I store leftover bagels?

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

→ What yogurt should I use?

Plain yogurt works best. Greek yogurt will give a thicker bagel, while regular yogurt will be slightly lighter.

→ Can I add flavors to the bagel dough?

Absolutely! You can incorporate herbs, cheese, or spices into the dough for added flavor.