High Protein Greek Yogurt Bagels

Name: High Protein Greek Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 bagels
Ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1.5 cups self-rising flour; 1 egg (for egg wash); Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic powder

Highlighted under: Clean Inspiration

I love starting my day with a protein-packed breakfast, and these High Protein Greek Yogurt Bagels have quickly become a favorite. They're so easy to make, and the creaminess of the Greek yogurt combined with the chewiness of the bagel is simply irresistible. Plus, they offer a healthy twist on the classic bagel, making them perfect for anyone looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying a delicious treat. Let me share how these bagels became a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Sybil Hawkes

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:09:34.731Z

When I first decided to experiment with Greek yogurt in my bagels, I was pleasantly surprised by the results. The addition of Greek yogurt not only boosts the protein but also creates a wonderfully soft texture. After several attempts, I discovered that using self-rising flour is key to achieving that perfect chewy bagel texture without the long proofing time of traditional dough. Trust me; this method saves you time without sacrificing flavor!

These bagels are incredibly versatile too! I've topped them with everything from sesame seeds to a sprinkle of garlic powder, depending on my mood. They're perfect for a quick breakfast or a satisfying snack. I often make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for busy mornings. Just pop one in the toaster, and you're good to go!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with protein for sustained energy
Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Customizable with your favorite toppings

The Role of Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt serves as the star ingredient in these bagels, delivering a creamy texture and a boost of protein. Unlike traditional bagels, which rely on yeast for rise, the yogurt allows for an almost instant dough that doesn’t require proofing. This means you can whip these up in less than an hour, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings. The acidity in the yogurt also enhances flavor and gives the bagels a slight tang, differentiating them from their more bland counterparts.

When selecting your Greek yogurt, I recommend using full-fat or at least low-fat yogurts for the best flavor and texture. Non-fat varieties can lead to a drier dough, so be cautious with substitutions. If you prefer, you can experiment with flavored Greek yogurts, but keep in mind they may affect the overall taste of your bagels. Just remember to keep the yogurt's consistency thick to maintain the dough's structure.

Perfecting Dough Texture

Kneading the dough is a critical step in achieving that perfect bagel chewiness. When you knead, you’re activating the gluten in the flour, which provides elasticity and structure. Be careful not to over-knead; a few minutes should suffice to reach a smooth, cohesive dough. A good indicator is to test between your fingers—the dough should spring back lightly after pressed. If the dough feels overly sticky, a light dusting of flour can help, but be cautious not to add too much, as this can lead to tougher bagels.

When shaping the bagels, try to avoid any seams by smoothing the dough before pinching the ends together. This will help your bagels hold their shape during baking. For a smoother surface, I find rolling each piece into a ball before forming into a ring works very well. Remember to create a decent-sized hole in the center; bagels will puff up as they bake, and you want those iconic bagel shapes to be maintained.

Ingredients

Bagels

1 cup Greek yogurt
1.5 cups self-rising flour
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic powder

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

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

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it gently for a few minutes until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into four equal pieces and shape each piece into a bagel by forming a ring and pinching the ends together.

Brush with Egg

Place the bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the bagels. Add your desired toppings.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool before slicing.

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, try mixing in herbs or spices into the dough. You can also substitute regular flour in place of self-rising flour, but remember to add baking powder and salt.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These High Protein Greek Yogurt Bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is an excellent option. Simply wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should maintain their quality for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature or pop them in the toaster for a quick reheat.

For meal prep, consider making a double batch of the dough. You can shape the bagels and freeze them before baking. This way, you can bake fresh bagels anytime you crave them. Adjust your baking time slightly if baking from frozen, allowing an additional 5-10 minutes, and keep an eye on them until they’re golden brown.

Delicious Variation Ideas

These bagels are highly versatile! Feel free to swap out the toppings based on your taste preferences. Instead of sesame or poppy seeds, you might try everything bagel seasoning for a burst of flavor or even grated cheese for a savory twist. For a sweet option, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top before baking, giving your bagels a delightful sweetness that pairs wonderfully with cream cheese.

If you're looking for a lower-carb version, you can substitute 1 cup of almond flour for the self-rising flour and adjust the yogurt accordingly. This will alter the texture slightly—keeping a close eye on the baking time will help get the ideal finish. Regardless of the variations, these bagels are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your protein levels high.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but the bagels may not be as rich in protein and could have a different texture.

→ How should I store the bagels?

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

→ Can I add sweet ingredients to the dough?

Absolutely! You can add a tablespoon of honey or even spices like cinnamon for a sweet version.

→ What is the best way to reheat the bagels?

Toast them for a few minutes until warm and crispy. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 20-30 seconds.