Soft Honey Wheat Yogurt Bagels

Name: Soft Honey Wheat Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups whole wheat flour; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; Water for boiling

Highlighted under: Home Kitchen Classics

I absolutely adore these Soft Honey Wheat Yogurt Bagels; they are a delightfully healthy twist on the classic bagel. The combination of honey and yogurt creates a tender texture and a subtle sweetness that makes them irresistible. I've made these countless times, and they never fail to impress my family and friends. Whether it's for breakfast or a brunch gathering, these bagels are simple to prepare and offer a delightful homemade touch. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll want to keep them on hand as a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-03-25T07:48:32.049Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of using yogurt in bagels, I was intrigued. After experimenting, I found that it not only enhances the flavor but also keeps them moist and fluffy. Each time I bake a batch, I relish the moment when the warm scent fills my kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around and enjoy. The combination of honey adds a subtle sweetness that transforms an ordinary bagel into something extraordinary!

One key tip that I learned along the way is to ensure your dough is neither too sticky nor too dry; it should have a slightly tacky feel. This balance allows the bagels to hold their shape during boiling and baking, resulting in a perfect chewy texture. Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you'll be making these bagels on repeat!

Why You'll Love These Bagels

Subtle sweetness from honey enhances the flavor.
Incredibly soft and fluffy texture thanks to yogurt.
Perfect for breakfast or a snack any time of day.

The Role of Yogurt in the Dough

In this Soft Honey Wheat Yogurt Bagel recipe, yogurt plays a crucial role in developing the bagels’ signature tender texture. Unlike traditional bagels that rely solely on water and flour, the inclusion of yogurt adds richness and moisture. This results in a softer crumb that still has a delightful chew. Make sure to use plain yogurt to keep the flavors balanced; Greek yogurt can also be used for added richness but may require slightly more flour due to its thickness.

When mixing the yogurt and honey, aim for a smooth, homogenous mixture. This ensures that the sweetness from the honey is evenly distributed throughout the dough. If you find the dough too sticky during kneading, simply sprinkle in small amounts of flour until the desired consistency is reached. The goal is to create a dough that is workable but not overly dry.

A Perfect Boil

Boiling the bagels is a critical step in achieving that distinctive chewy crust. When boiling, aim for a rolling boil; this not only cooks the bagels but also helps create a shiny exterior. Drop the bagels carefully into the water and avoid overcrowding the pot. Cooking them for 1-2 minutes on each side allows for a beautiful golden hue to develop as they bake. Keeping an eye on them during this step is key; if they boil for too long, they may become overly tough.

You can also enhance the bagels by adding a pinch of barley malt syrup to the boiling water for extra flavor and a slight sheen. If you’re avoiding sugar, simply stick to plain water, but remember that malt syrup contributes a depth of flavor that’s traditionally found in bagels. This step is a fantastic opportunity to customize your bagels before they hit the oven.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your bagels:

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Water for boiling

Mix together thoroughly for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the yogurt and honey together. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the yogurt mixture, stirring until a dough forms.

Shape the Bagels

On a floured surface, knead the dough gently for about 5 minutes until smooth. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a bagel by forming a ring with a hole in the center.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop in the bagels, cooking them for about 1-2 minutes on each side. This step ensures that they achieve that classic chewy texture.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the boiled bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Let them cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For additional flavor, consider adding herbs or spices to the dough, such as garlic powder or sesame seeds on top before baking. These bagels also freeze well, so feel free to make a double batch!

Storage and Freezing Tips

To keep your bagels fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you have leftovers beyond this time, I recommend freezing them to preserve their softness. To freeze, place the cooled bagels in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag for longer storage, which can last up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen bagel, remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer a warm bagel, pop it in a toaster or a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This quick reheating will restore their delightful texture, making them taste freshly baked.

Creative Serving Suggestions

These Soft Honey Wheat Yogurt Bagels are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a classic breakfast, I love to top them with cream cheese and fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or avocados. For a savory option, consider spreading a layer of hummus and adding sliced cucumbers or radishes for a refreshing crunch.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try making a breakfast sandwich by layering sliced turkey, spinach, and a fried egg on a toasted bagel. The combination of flavors and textures can elevate a simple bagel into a gourmet treat, perfect for brunch gatherings. Trust me, this is a delicious way to impress your family or guests!

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour if you prefer a lighter texture, but the whole wheat flour adds nutritional value.

→ How can I store the bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ What can I replace yogurt with?

You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt as a substitute.

→ Can I add toppings to these bagels?

Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings like sesame seeds, garlic, or everything bagel seasoning before baking.