High Protein Bagels With Greek Yogurt

Name: High Protein Bagels With Greek Yogurt
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups self-rising flour; 1 1/2 cups Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 egg (for egg wash); Sesame seeds (optional for topping)

Highlighted under: Wholesome Meals

I’ve always loved bagels, but when I found out I could make a version that’s packed with protein, I was hooked! Using Greek yogurt as a base not only boosts the protein content but also gives these bagels a delightful texture. I appreciate how easy and quick they are to prepare, making them perfect for busy mornings. Whether you enjoy them toasted with cream cheese or topped with smoked salmon, these bagels never disappoint, and I can confidently say they satisfy a craving while supporting my nutrition goals.

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:52:18.017Z

When I first tried making these high protein bagels, I was amazed by how simple the process was. The combination of self-rising flour and Greek yogurt was a revelation! It creates a dough that is not only easy to work with but also wonderfully satisfying to eat. I learned that using room-temperature yogurt helps the dough come together more smoothly.

One tip I discovered is to let the bagels rest for a few minutes before boiling them. This allows their texture to become denser, which makes for a chewier bagel that really holds up to toppings. Trust me, this is a game-changer!

Why You Will Love These Bagels
Packed with protein to help fuel your day
Soft, chewy texture with a crispy exterior
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy mornings

Mastering the Bagel Dough

The key to creating a perfect bagel lies in the dough consistency. When mixing the self-rising flour with Greek yogurt, strive for a thick, slightly sticky dough that holds its shape. If you find the dough too sticky to work with, a light dusting of flour on your work surface can be helpful. Remember, the goal is not to over-knead; just knead until the dough is smooth, which should take about 30 seconds to a minute to achieve the right texture.

Using Greek yogurt not only elevates the protein content but also adds a unique tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory toppings. I recommend selecting a full-fat or plain variety to maintain the structure and moisture of the bagels. If you need a lighter version, consider using low-fat Greek yogurt; just be cautious as it might yield a slightly different texture.

Perfecting the Boiling Step

Boiling the bagels before baking is a crucial step that gives them a chewy texture. When you drop them into the boiling water, watch for the bubbles; they should rise to the surface within seconds. A quick 1-2 minutes on each side is usually perfect, but if you prefer an even chewier bagel, you might consider boiling them for an additional minute. This process helps create that iconic bagel crust you love.

Don't forget that adding a bit of honey or baking soda to the boiling water can enhance the bagel's color and flavor. The honey will contribute a subtle sweetness, while baking soda can help achieve a darker crust. If you're exploring different flavors, try adding spices like garlic powder or onion flakes to the water for an extra kick.

Storing and Serving Your Bagels

Once your bagels are baked and cooled, you might be wondering how to store them. For optimal freshness, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; bagel halves freeze beautifully and can be toasted straight from the freezer when you're ready to enjoy them.

When it comes to serving, these bagels are versatile. Enjoy them simply with butter or cream cheese, or take it up a notch with toppings like smoked salmon, capers, or fresh avocado. You can even make mini sandwiches using the bagels for a fun breakfast or lunch option. The soft interior and crisp exterior make them a delightful canvas for a variety of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

2 cups self-rising flour
1 1/2 cups Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon salt
1 egg (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds (optional for topping)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the self-rising flour, Greek yogurt, honey, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for a few seconds until smooth. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a bagel.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop the bagels into the boiling water, cooking them for about 1-2 minutes on each side.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them with the egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired. Bake for 20 minutes until golden.

Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them fresh or store them for later!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different toppings! Try everything from cream cheese to avocado or smoked salmon to find your favorite combination.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your bagels are too dense, it could be due to using too much flour. Make sure to measure accurately and, if you're unsure, start with slightly less flour than stated and adjust as needed. Alternatively, if the bagels are coming out too soft, this could mean you need to knead them a bit longer to develop the gluten structure.

In case the bagels are not holding their shape during boiling, ensure that they are well-shaped before boiling. If you notice them falling apart, try shaping them a bit tighter and letting them rest for a few minutes before dropping them into the boiling water.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of self-rising flour, you can easily make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt. For every cup of self-rising flour, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt. This is a great solution if you want to maintain the same bagel recipe with ingredients you already have on hand.

For a dairy-free alternative, consider using a coconut or almond yogurt in place of Greek yogurt. However, keep in mind that the flavor and consistency may vary, so you might need to experiment a little to achieve your desired results. The moisture content is essential for the bagel's chewiness, so choose a yogurt that is thicker.

Flavor Variations to Try

Feel free to elevate the flavor of your bagels by incorporating ingredients like herbs, spices, or even shredded cheese directly into the dough. Fresh dill or chives can add a delightful twist for those who love savory notes. If you're a fan of sweet bagels, consider folding in cinnamon and raisins for a satisfying breakfast treat.

You can also create beautiful, visually appealing bagels by topping them with various seeds or herbs just before baking. A mixture of poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or even freshly grated Parmesan can provide a unique taste and a crunchy exterior, making your homemade bagels a standout at brunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use plain yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but the protein content will be lower, and the bagels may be slightly denser.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Cool them completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels vegan?

You can use a plant-based yogurt and a flax egg as a substitute for the egg wash.

→ What is self-rising flour?

Self-rising flour is a mixture of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. You can substitute with a combination of all-purpose flour and baking powder if needed.