Soft Whole Wheat Yogurt Bagels

Name: Soft Whole Wheat Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups whole wheat flour; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); Water for boiling

Highlighted under: Fresh Lifestyle Meals

I love making bagels at home because they are so fresh and flavorful! These Soft Whole Wheat Yogurt Bagels not only have a delightful chewiness, but they also pack a nutritious punch with whole wheat flour and yogurt. The best part is, they are incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients, I can whip up a batch that the whole family enjoys. Trust me, once you try making bagels from scratch, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought!

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-02-16T04:41:37.194Z

When I first made these Soft Whole Wheat Yogurt Bagels, I was surprised at how simple the process was. The yogurt adds moisture and richness, making them incredibly soft and fluffy. The whole wheat flour gives them a nutty flavor that I adore. I’ve experimented with various toppings, and I found that sprinkling sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning makes them even more irresistible.

Another tip I discovered is to let the bagels rest on the counter while the water boils. This small step helps create that perfect chewy texture we all love. I always make sure to have them fresh out of the oven for breakfast with a spread of cream cheese or my favorite jam. You can also customize them with herbs or spices for a fun twist!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutritious whole wheat flour gives a healthy boost
Satisfyingly chewy texture with a soft interior
Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack

      

Mastering the Dough

The key to perfect bagels lies in the dough. Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and denser texture, contributing to the satisfying chewiness. Ensure that your yogurt is at room temperature before mixing, as it incorporates better and allows for a smoother dough. Knead the dough just until smooth—before it becomes too elastic, as over-kneading can make the bagels tough. A well-mixed dough will have a slightly sticky but manageable consistency that holds its shape.

If your dough seems dry, you can add a teaspoon of water at a time during the kneading process to achieve the right texture. Conversely, if it feels too wet, incorporate a little more flour, but be cautious not to add too much. The goal is to create a dough that is soft and easy to shape without being overly sticky, which is critical for forming bagels without them losing their shape during boiling.

Boiling for the Perfect Texture

Boiling the bagels is a crucial step that significantly impacts their final texture. The process gelatinizes the surface starches, helping to create that signature chewy crust. Aim to bring your water to a rolling boil before adding the bagels to ensure they cook evenly. Adding a tablespoon of honey or malt syrup to the boiling water can enhance the flavor and give your bagels a beautiful golden hue as they bake.

When boiling, don’t overcrowd the pot; work in batches of two to four, depending on your pot’s size. Boil each side for one minute to strike the right balance between a chewy exterior and a soft interior. If the bagels start to float too quickly, give them a gentle press with a slotted spoon; this ensures they maintain their shape and don't over-inflate.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make delicious bagels:

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Water for boiling

Feel free to experiment with additional toppings like seeds or spices!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your bagels:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt. Add yogurt and honey, stirring until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 2-3 minutes until smooth.

Form Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the middle to shape it into a bagel.

Boil the Bagels

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Carefully add bagels and boil for 1 minute on each side.

Bake the Bagels

Transfer the bagels to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Enjoy your homemade bagels fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding herbs or spices to the dough or experiment with flavored yogurts.

Storing and Freezing

To store your Soft Whole Wheat Yogurt Bagels, let them cool completely before placing them in a sealed plastic bag or airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, I recommend freezing them. Wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen bagel, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. To revive freshness, toast them in a toaster or bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins to personalize your bagels. Cheddar cheese adds a delightful sharpness, while adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can infuse a lovely aroma. For a sweeter variation, incorporate raisins or dried cranberries into the dough before shaping, and sprinkle cinnamon on top for a delicious twist.

Another fun idea is to top your bagels before baking. You can sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning on top of the dough after boiling but before baking to enhance flavor. Just make sure the bagels are still damp after boiling to help the toppings stick better.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat?

Yes, all-purpose flour can be used, but the bagels will be less nutritious.

→ How do 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 to the bagels?

Absolutely! Top them with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning before baking.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

You can substitute yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt and use maple syrup instead of honey.