If you love the comforting chew of a fresh bagel but want a healthier, protein-packed twist, this Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels Recipe is your new best friend. Combining the creamy tang of full-fat Greek yogurt with simple pantry staples, these bagels deliver a satisfying texture and flavor that feels indulgent without the guilt. Whether you’re whipping up breakfast, a snack, or brunch, these bagels are a delightful way to boost your protein intake while enjoying a soft, golden crust that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple but each plays an important role in making the perfect Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels Recipe. From the protein-rich Greek yogurt that keeps the crumb tender to the baking powder that gives the bagels a light, airy rise, every component contributes to the taste, texture, and inviting color.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the sturdy base of your dough, providing that classic bagel chewiness.
- 1 ¾ cups full-fat Greek yogurt: Adds moisture, protein, and a slight tang that deepens the flavor.
- 4 teaspoons baking powder: Acts as a gentle leavening agent to keep the bagels fluffy.
- 1 ½ teaspoons sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the tang and help with browning.
- ¾ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1 egg: For the glossy egg wash that gives the bagels a golden, appetizing finish.
- Optional toppings: Everything bagel seasoning, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or flakey sea salt to customize your bagels’ flavor and crunch.
How to Make Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures the oven is perfectly hot when the bagels go in, helping create that beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and sea salt. This dry mixture creates the foundation for your dough and evenly distributes the leavening agent.
Step 3: Add Greek Yogurt
Stir in the Greek yogurt and mix until the dough starts to come together. It may look a bit crumbly or clumpy at this stage—don’t worry! If it feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water or a little more yogurt to bring it all together into a ball.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead about 10-15 times. This step helps develop a slight stretch in the dough, making for that classic bagel texture. Then, divide the dough into 6 even pieces—either cut or pulled apart.
Step 5: Shape the Bagels
Roll each piece into a long rope, about 1 inch in diameter or just under, then connect the ends to form a circle. Press the ends firmly together so they don’t separate during baking. Arrange your shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Apply Egg Wash and Add Toppings
Whisk the egg well and brush it over every visible part of the bagels, including the middle hole. This egg wash will give your bagels that stunning golden sheen. Sprinkle your favorite toppings like everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds now for a burst of flavor and texture.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 19-23 minutes or until the bagels turn a gorgeous golden brown. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook—fresh out of the oven is best enjoyed warm or cooled slightly, depending on your preference.
How to Serve Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels Recipe
Garnishes
These bagels are a perfect canvas for all kinds of delightful garnishes! Spread with cream cheese, avocado, or nut butter for a filling boost. Fresh tomato slices, smoked salmon, or a sprinkle of herbs also pair beautifully, elevating your bagel to café-worthy heights.
Side Dishes
A simple side of mixed greens or a fresh fruit salad balances out the richness of the bagels. For brunch, add scrambled eggs or a light vegetable soup to round out the meal without overwhelming the subtle tang of the Greek yogurt in the dough.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels Recipe horizontally and toast them lightly for added crunch. Try making mini bagel sliders with deli meats and cheese for a fun party appetizer. You can even use the bagels as a base for breakfast sandwiches, layering eggs, spinach, and your favorite sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store any leftover Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft yet fresh enough to enjoy without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save the bagels for longer, slice them first and freeze in a sealed bag with parchment paper between each slice. This makes it super easy to pop a bagel slice right into the toaster whenever a quick snack strikes.
Reheating
For reheating, toast your bagel slices straight from the freezer until warmed through and lightly crisp. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel keeps them soft and chewy if you prefer no crust.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat Greek yogurt instead of full-fat?
Yes, you can use low-fat Greek yogurt, but keep in mind that the texture might be slightly less rich and chewy. Full-fat yogurt gives the bagels the best moistness and flavor.
Do these bagels need to be boiled before baking?
No, this Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels Recipe skips the traditional boiling step. The baking powder helps them rise and the yogurt keeps them moist, making boiling unnecessary and the process much simpler!
Can I add other flours to this recipe?
All-purpose flour works best for the right texture here, but you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free blends. Just note that changes may affect chewiness and rise.
How long do these bagels stay fresh?
Stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, these bagels stay fresh for about 2 days. For longer storage, freezing is your best option.
Can I make these bagels vegan?
Since this recipe uses Greek yogurt and an egg wash, it’s not vegan as-is. You could try substituting with plant-based yogurt and a vegan egg substitute for the wash, though results will vary.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels Recipe effortlessly combines wholesome ingredients with simple steps to bring you bagels that are soft, flavorful, and packed with protein. They’ve quickly become one of my favorite homemade bread treats, especially when you want something satisfying yet a bit healthier. Give these bagels a try—you might just find that they become your go-to morning staple or the perfect snack to share with friends!
Print
Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 bagels
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Greek Yogurt Protein Bagels are a quick and delicious homemade treat that combines the creaminess of full-fat Greek yogurt with a light, chewy texture. Perfect for a wholesome breakfast or snack, these bagels are simple to make with basic pantry ingredients and can be customized with your favorite toppings like everything bagel seasoning or poppy seeds.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons sugar
- ¾ teaspoon sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional Toppings
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Poppy seeds
- Sesame seeds
- Flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to reach temperature while you prepare the dough to ensure even baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and sea salt until fully combined to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt.
- Add Greek yogurt: Incorporate the Greek yogurt into the dry mixture and mix well until a somewhat crumbly or clumpy dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water or a small spoonful more of yogurt to help it come together.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it about 10-15 times to develop structure. The dough should become smooth and slightly elastic.
- Shape bagels: Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin rope about 1 inch in diameter. Form the rope into a circle and press the ends together firmly to create a bagel shape. Place each shaped bagel onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Apply egg wash and toppings: Whisk the egg in a small bowl. Brush the egg wash onto every exposed part of each bagel, including the hole in the center. Sprinkle optional toppings such as everything bagel seasoning, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or flaky sea salt over the bagels as desired.
- Bake the bagels: Bake in the preheated oven for 19-23 minutes or until the bagels turn a golden brown color. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving, or enjoy warm for a delicious, fresh taste.
Notes
- If the dough is too dry, adding a teaspoon of water or more yogurt helps achieve the right consistency.
- Kneading the dough briefly is important for texture but avoid overworking it to keep the bagels tender.
- Customize the toppings according to your preference or leave plain for a simple flavor.
- Monitor baking time closely to prevent overcooking and drying out the bagels.
- Full-fat Greek yogurt is recommended for best flavor and texture, but lower-fat versions can be used.
