Easy Protein Bagels With Greek Yogurt
Bagels are a breakfast favorite, but they’re not always the healthiest choice. That’s where these protein bagels come in! Made with Greek yogurt, they’re packed with protein and have a soft, chewy texture without needing yeast or a long rise time. Whether you enjoy them plain, topped with cream cheese, or as part of a hearty sandwich, they’re a nutritious and satisfying way to start your day.
I love this recipe because it’s quick, easy, and only requires a few ingredients. If you’ve ever been intimidated by making homemade bagels, this is the perfect beginner-friendly recipe! No boiling water, no waiting for the dough to rise—just mix, shape, and bake.
These bagels are also a great meal-prep option. Make a batch at the start of the week and have a high-protein breakfast or snack ready to go. Plus, since they’re made with Greek yogurt, they have a slight tang that pairs well with both sweet and savory toppings.
Why You’ll Love It
- High in Protein – Thanks to Greek yogurt and protein-rich flour, these bagels help keep you full and energized.
- Quick & Easy – No yeast, no waiting for dough to rise—just mix, shape, and bake in under 30 minutes!
- Customizable – Add toppings like sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or even cinnamon and raisins.
- Healthier Alternative – Lower in carbs and fat compared to traditional bagels but just as delicious.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy them fresh or toasted!
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat)
- 1 cup self-rising flour (or 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder + ¼ teaspoon salt)
- 1 egg (for brushing, optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Sesame seeds
- Poppy seeds
- Shredded cheese
- Garlic powder
This simple ingredient list makes it easy to whip up a batch anytime. Now, let’s get baking!
Kitchen Tools Needed
You don’t need any fancy equipment for this recipe! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing bowl – For combining the dough ingredients.
- Fork or spatula – To mix the dough together.
- Floured surface – A clean countertop or cutting board for shaping the bagels.
- Knife or dough scraper – To divide the dough into even portions.
- Baking sheet – To bake the bagels.
- Parchment paper or silicone mat – To prevent sticking.
- Pastry brush – If you’re using an egg wash for a shiny, golden finish.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. - Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. Stir until the mixture forms a shaggy dough. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. - Shape the Bagels
Lightly flour your hands and a clean surface. Transfer the dough to the surface and gently knead it a few times until smooth. Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, then pinch the ends together to form a bagel shape. - Add the Egg Wash & Toppings
If using, whisk the egg and brush it over the tops of the bagels. Sprinkle your desired toppings, like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning, for extra flavor. - Bake
Place the bagels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–22 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm. - Cool & Enjoy
Let the bagels cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve them plain, with cream cheese, or as a sandwich base.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Use Thick Greek Yogurt – Regular yogurt won’t work well because it has too much liquid. Stick to thick Greek yogurt for the best texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough – Overworking the dough can make the bagels tough. Mix just until combined.
- Flour Your Hands – If the dough is sticky, lightly dust your hands with flour to make shaping easier.
- Make Them Crispier – If you like a crispier crust, bake for an extra 2–3 minutes or toast them before serving.
- Customize the Flavor – Add a pinch of garlic powder, cinnamon, or shredded cheese to the dough for extra flavor.
- Storage Tip – Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze them for up to a month. Just pop them in the toaster when you’re ready to eat!
These protein bagels are a game-changer—easy to make, healthy, and incredibly delicious. Give them a try and enjoy a nutritious homemade breakfast!
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this protein bagel recipe is how flexible it is! Here are some ingredient swaps and fun variations to try:
Substitutions:
- Greek Yogurt Alternative: If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use strained regular yogurt or even cottage cheese blended until smooth.
- Flour Options: Swap self-rising flour with a mix of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour with added baking powder.
- Egg Wash Substitute: If you don’t have eggs or prefer not to use them, brush the bagels with milk or a little olive oil for a golden crust.
Flavor Variations:
- Cheddar & Jalapeño: Add shredded cheddar cheese and finely diced jalapeños to the dough for a spicy twist.
- Cinnamon Raisin: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and ¼ cup of raisins for a sweet bagel variation.
- Garlic & Herb: Add ½ teaspoon of garlic powder and a sprinkle of dried oregano or Italian seasoning.
- Chocolate Chip: Stir in a handful of mini chocolate chips for a fun treat.
Serving Suggestions
These protein-packed bagels are super versatile! Here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:
- Classic with Cream Cheese – Spread with plain, herbed, or whipped cream cheese.
- Avocado Toast Style – Top with mashed avocado, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Breakfast Sandwich – Fill with eggs, turkey bacon, and cheese for a high-protein breakfast.
- Nut Butter & Banana – Spread peanut or almond butter and top with banana slices.
- Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese – A classic combination with a high-protein twist!
- Pizza Bagel – Slice in half, add marinara sauce, cheese, and toppings, then broil until bubbly.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing:
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: If you live in a humid climate, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to a month.
Reheating:
- Toaster or Oven: Slice and toast for a few minutes until warm and crispy.
- Microwave: Heat for about 15 seconds if you want a softer texture.
- Frozen Bagels: Let them thaw at room temperature or microwave for 30 seconds before toasting.
FAQ
1. Can I make these bagels without yogurt?
Greek yogurt is key for the texture and protein content, but you can try using blended cottage cheese or a dairy-free alternative like unsweetened coconut yogurt.
2. Why is my dough too sticky?
Greek yogurt brands vary in thickness. If your dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it becomes easier to handle.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just double all the ingredients and bake in batches if needed.
4. Do these bagels taste like traditional bagels?
They have a softer texture than boiled bagels but still have that delicious chewiness and flavor.
5. Can I add protein powder to the dough?
Yes! You can add 1-2 tablespoons of unflavored or vanilla protein powder. If the dough gets too dry, add a tiny bit of extra yogurt.
These protein bagels are a simple, healthy alternative to store-bought bagels, and they’re so easy to customize. Try them out and let me know your favorite toppings!
Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!
Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!
Easy Protein Bagels With Greek Yogurt
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Fork or spatula
- Floured surface
- Knife or dough scraper
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
- Pastry Brush
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt plain, full-fat or low-fat
- 1 cup self-rising flour or 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder + ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg for brushing, optional
Optional Toppings:
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Sesame seeds
- Poppy seeds
- Shredded cheese
- Garlic powder
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
Make the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and self-rising flour. Stir until the mixture forms a shaggy dough. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Shape the Bagels
- Lightly flour your hands and a clean surface. Transfer the dough to the surface and gently knead it a few times until smooth. Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, then pinch the ends together to form a bagel shape.
- Add the Egg Wash & Toppings
- If using, whisk the egg and brush it over the tops of the bagels. Sprinkle your desired toppings, like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning, for extra flavor.
Bake
- Place the bagels on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–22 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm.
Cool & Enjoy
- Let the bagels cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve them plain, with cream cheese, or as a sandwich base.
Notes
Nutritional Value (Per Bagel, Approximate)
- Calories: 140-160 kcal
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 22-25g
- Fat: 2-3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2-3g
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.