Fluffy High Protein Bagels Recipe with Greek Yogurt

Let me tell you, the first time I pulled these fluffy high protein bagels with Greek yogurt out of my oven, the scent of warm bread mixed with the subtle tang of yogurt was absolutely irresistible. It was the kind of moment that makes you stop and smile, knowing you’ve just created something truly special. The outside was golden and slightly crisp, while the inside had that perfect chewy texture that bagel lovers dream of. Honestly, I couldn’t wait to share them with my family—and they didn’t disappoint. My kids kept sneaking bites and my partner raved about how “they taste like they’re from a bakery!”

These bagels have quickly become a staple in our house, not just because they’re easy to make, but because they’re packed with protein and much healthier than store-bought versions. They’re perfect for breakfast sandwiches, a mid-afternoon snack, or even alongside a bowl of soup for dinner. Whether you’re looking to impress your brunch guests or just want to treat yourself to homemade goodness, this recipe is going to be your new favorite. Trust me, you’re going to want to bookmark this one!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: These bagels come together in just about 30 minutes from start to finish. No need for hours of proofing or complicated kneading.
• Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples and a container of Greek yogurt—no fancy ingredients required.
• High Protein: Greek yogurt and protein-rich flour make these bagels a fantastic choice for anyone looking to up their protein intake.
• Perfect Texture: The combination of yogurt and baking powder creates unbelievably fluffy bagels with a chewy bite.
• Customizable: You can add toppings like sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

What really sets this recipe apart is the use of Greek yogurt—it’s not just a random addition, but the secret to their soft, pillowy texture. Plus, the tang from the yogurt balances beautifully with the subtle sweetness of the dough. These bagels aren’t just a healthier option; they’re genuinely delicious and easy to whip up any day of the week!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without any fuss. You likely have most of these on hand already!

• Self-rising flour: This is key for that fluffy texture. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by mixing 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
• Plain Greek yogurt: Full-fat or low-fat works best here for richness and protein. Avoid fat-free yogurt as it can make the dough too sticky.
• Egg: Beaten, for brushing the tops of the bagels to achieve that golden-brown finish.
• Salt: Just a pinch to enhance the flavor of the dough.
• Toppings: Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or leave them plain—your call!

If you want to make these gluten-free, you can swap the self-rising flour for a gluten-free blend and add a little extra baking powder to compensate.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl: You’ll need a large bowl to combine the dough ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Useful for mixing the sticky dough.
• Baking sheet: A standard sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat works perfectly.
• Pastry brush: For brushing the egg wash onto the bagels before baking.
• Optional: A kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially if you’re swapping flours.

If you don’t have a pastry brush, you can use the back of a spoon to gently spread the egg wash—it’s not as perfect, but it gets the job done!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup (125g) of self-rising flour and 1 cup (240g) of plain Greek yogurt. Stir until the mixture comes together into a sticky dough.
3. Lightly flour your work surface and hands. Turn the dough out onto the surface and knead gently for about 2-3 minutes until it’s smooth and slightly elastic. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, but don’t overdo it!
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then use your fingers to create a hole in the center, shaping it into a bagel. Place the bagels on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Beat 1 egg in a small bowl and brush the tops of the bagels with the egg wash. Add your desired toppings, such as sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown and firm to the touch. Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving.

Pro tip: If you want even shinier bagels, double-brush the egg wash—once before baking and then again after 10 minutes in the oven.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Making these fluffy high protein bagels with Greek yogurt is easy, but here are some tips to make sure they turn out perfect every time:

• Don’t over-knead: While some recipes call for serious kneading, this dough just needs a gentle touch to keep the bagels tender.
• Test your toppings: If you’re using something like everything bagel seasoning, press it lightly into the dough after brushing the egg wash to ensure it sticks.
• Use parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Avoid fat-free yogurt: It tends to make the dough too wet and hard to work with.
• Check for doneness: The bagels should be golden and firm when they’re ready. If they’re too pale, let them bake a couple more minutes.

And don’t worry if your first batch isn’t bakery-perfect—practice makes better bagels!

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-Free: Swap the self-rising flour for a gluten-free blend and add ½ teaspoon extra baking powder.
• Sweet Bagels: Mix a tablespoon of sugar or honey into the dough and sprinkle the tops with cinnamon sugar before baking.
• Seasonal Twist: Add crushed dried rosemary or thyme for a savory herb bagel, or even mix in shredded cheddar for cheesy bagels.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even stuff the bagels with cream cheese or jam before baking—just make sure to seal the dough tightly to prevent leaks!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These bagels are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. Pair them with cream cheese, avocado slices, or your favorite deli meats for a hearty breakfast or lunch. For a lighter option, try them with hummus and cucumber slices.

To store, let the bagels cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Need to store them longer? Pop them in the freezer in a zip-top bag for up to a month. To reheat, simply toast them straight from the freezer or microwave for 30 seconds before toasting for a warm, fresh taste.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional value for one bagel:

• Calories: 150-180
• Protein: 8-10g
• Carbohydrates: 22-25g
• Fat: 2-3g

The Greek yogurt gives these bagels a protein boost, making them a great choice for a post-workout snack or a filling meal. Plus, they’re lower in calories and fat compared to traditional bagels. If you’re watching your carb intake, opt for a low-carb flour alternative!

Conclusion

If you’ve been searching for a healthier bagel recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture, these fluffy high protein bagels with Greek yogurt are a must-try. They’re simple to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Honestly, they’ve become a go-to in my kitchen, and I can’t wait to hear how they turn out for you!

Give them a try and let me know your favorite topping or twist in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends who love a good baking challenge—or just love a delicious bagel! Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I make these bagels without self-rising flour?

Yes! You can make your own by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt.

Can I use flavored Greek yogurt?

It’s best to stick with plain yogurt for this recipe. Flavored yogurts might alter the taste of the bagels and could affect the texture.

How do I prevent my bagels from sticking to the baking sheet?

Always use parchment paper or a silicone mat to ensure easy removal and hassle-free cleanup.

Can I freeze these bagels?

Absolutely! Once cooled, store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Toast them straight from frozen when ready to eat.

Can I make mini bagels with this recipe?

Sure thing! Just divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the baking time to around 15-18 minutes.

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