Protein Bagels With Greek Yogurt

Name: Protein Bagels With Greek Yogurt
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour; 2 tablespoons honey; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 egg (for egg wash); Optional toppings (sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, etc.)

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making Protein Bagels with Greek Yogurt because they strike the perfect balance between nutritious and delicious. The high protein content from the Greek yogurt not only keeps me full longer but also adds a delightful creaminess to the bagels. I usually whip these up for breakfast or a snack, and they’re always a hit with family and friends. Best of all, they’re easy to prepare and can be topped with anything from avocado to smoked salmon for a tasty meal any time of day!

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:33:36.325Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of making bagels with Greek yogurt, I was captivated by the simplicity and the promise of extra protein. After experimenting with several recipes, I discovered that the key was to use self-rising flour along with the yogurt to create a perfect dough consistency. The result? Soft and fluffy bagels that are both nutritious and satisfying!

Each time I make these bagels, I like to try different toppings and spreads, from a classic cream cheese to hummus or even a sweet fruit spread. What makes these bagels shine is their versatility – they adapt wonderfully to any flavor profile you’re craving. Plus, they’re the perfect canvas for healthy toppings!

Why You Will Love These Bagels
High-protein content keeps you satisfied longer
Quick and easy preparation suitable for any skill level
Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings

Getting the Perfect Dough

The key to achieving the perfect texture in your Protein Bagels lies in thoroughly combining the Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. Using a fork or your hands, mix until the ingredients just come together, being careful not to overwork the dough, which could lead to a dense texture. You want a soft, slightly sticky dough that’s easy to shape. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a teaspoon of flour at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.

Kneading is crucial for developing gluten, which gives bagels their unique chewiness. On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough gently for about 2-3 minutes until it feels smooth. Don’t be tempted to skip this step; it significantly enhances the bagel's final texture, making it delightfully chewy and satisfying.

Boiling for Bagel Brilliance

Boiling the bagels is a vital step that contributes not only to their texture but also to the shine of the crust. It’s best to maintain the water at a rolling boil throughout the process. If the water cools too much, your bagels may not develop that classic crust. Boil them for about one minute per side—look for a slight puffiness and a glossy surface, indicating they’re ready to come out.

Additionally, you can add a teaspoon of baking soda or honey to the boiling water. This enhances the shine of the bagels and gives a slightly sweeter flavor, making them even more irresistible. Just remember, don’t overcrowd the pot; boiling one at a time allows for even cooking and perfect results.

Creative Topping Ideas

The beauty of these Protein Bagels lies in their versatility. Once baked, you can customize them with various toppings. For a savory twist, try a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds. If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with a blend of spices like garlic powder and smoked paprika to create a flavor-packed topping that pairs wonderfully with cream cheese.

Another fun idea is to drizzle melted cheese over the top in the last few minutes of baking, creating a gooey, cheesy finish. Don’t forget the classic combo of avocado and poached eggs, which can turn your bagel into a substantial meal. These bagels are not just for breakfast; they make an excellent snack or even a light lunch when topped creatively.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create delicious protein-packed bagels:

Ingredients

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
2 tablespoons honey
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional toppings (sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, etc.)

With these ingredients in hand, you're ready to create your bagels!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your protein bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, self-rising flour, honey, and salt. Mix until a dough forms, then knead it lightly on a floured surface until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a log and form into a circle, pinching the ends together to seal.

Boil the Bagels

In a pot of boiling water, gently drop the bagels in (one at a time) and boil for about 1 minute on each side. This step gives them that classic bagel texture.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the boiled bagels to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle your desired toppings. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the bagels cool for a few minutes before slicing and enjoying!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding herbs or spices directly into the dough before shaping the bagels. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings for a variety of tastes!

Storing and Freezing

These Protein Bagels can be made ahead and stored for later enjoyment. Once baked, let them cool completely on a wire rack to prevent sogginess. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will revive their texture nicely, restoring the freshness and chewyness, making them taste almost like they were just baked. You can also slice the bagels before freezing, making it easier to grab one and toast it up quickly.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with the base of these bagels. If you prefer a lower-carb approach, you can substitute the self-rising flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just be aware that this may result in a slightly different texture; adding a bit of xanthan gum can help maintain some chewiness. For a more unique flavor, consider mixing in herbs, such as dill or rosemary, directly into the dough.

You can also swap out the honey for other sweeteners such as maple syrup or agave if you're looking for a different taste profile. Each sweetener will impart its unique flavor, so choose according to your preference. Additionally, adding a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseeds into the mix can provide extra protein and fiber, making these bagels even more nutritious.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your bagels turning out too dense, it might be due to over-kneading the dough. Make sure to knead just until smooth. If your bagels are falling apart, they may need a bit more flour to provide structure, or you might not have boiled them long enough. Ensuring they stay intact during boiling is essential for achieving that perfect bite.

Another common issue is uneven baking. If the bagels are browning too quickly on the outside while remaining undercooked on the inside, try reducing the oven temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) and increase the baking time by a few minutes. Always check for a golden-brown exterior and a firm, cooked-through center before removing them from the oven.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of yogurt?

Yes, you can use regular plain yogurt, but Greek yogurt yields a denser dough.

→ How should I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add toppings before baking?

Absolutely! Add your desired toppings after applying the egg wash for best results.

→ Are these bagels gluten-free?

To make gluten-free bagels, substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free flour blend and add additional baking powder and salt.