Soft Honey Wheat Yogurt Bagels

Name: Soft Honey Wheat Yogurt Bagels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups whole wheat flour; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Water for boiling

Highlighted under: Oven-Fresh Wonders

I absolutely love making these Soft Honey Wheat Yogurt Bagels! The combination of honey and whole wheat flour creates a delightful sweetness and a nutty flavor that feels so comforting. Each bagel turns out incredibly soft and chewy, thanks to the yogurt that adds moisture and richness. I enjoy making them on lazy weekend mornings and serve them warm with a spread of cream cheese. Believe me, this recipe has quickly become a family favorite, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-02-16T01:13:35.853Z

During my first attempt at making bagels, I was amazed by how simple and enjoyable the process was. I experimented with adding yogurt, which made them delightfully soft without losing that traditional chewiness. The honey balances the earthy sweetness of the whole wheat, creating a perfect bite every time!

One of my favorite tips is to boil the bagels in a honey-infused water bath. This technique not only enhances the flavor but also gives the bagels that distinct shiny crust we all love. It’s a little extra step that’s totally worth it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously sweet with a hint of honey
Soft and tender texture, perfect for any spread
Quick and easy to make at home

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Soft Honey Wheat Yogurt Bagels serves a unique purpose that enhances both flavor and texture. Whole wheat flour is not only healthier but also provides a nutty richness that complements the delicately sweet notes of honey. The yogurt is key in creating the soft and chewy texture that makes these bagels so tasty. It acts as a tenderizer while adding moisture, a must-have for achieving that soft bite when you pull them apart.

Honey does more than sweeten; it also adds a lovely golden color to the bagels as they bake. Using raw honey can intensify this effect while providing added nutrients. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, light agave syrup can mimic honey's sweetness without compromising texture. Just remember, the type of sweetener can subtly alter the flavor profile of your bagels.

Perfecting Your Bagel Technique

Kneading the dough is a critical step that shouldn't be rushed. Spend about 5 minutes working it until it's smooth and slightly elastic. This ensures that the gluten in the flour develops properly, leading to that delightful chewiness. If you're unfamiliar with kneading, you can tell it's ready once the dough no longer sticks excessively to your hands or the surface. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour gradually; if it’s too dry, a few drops of water can help.

When you shape the bagels, it's best to form a uniform thickness all around to ensure even cooking. After poking a hole in the center, use your fingers to stretch the dough gently rather than tearing it. This method preserves the air pockets you've created, which contribute to a soft texture inside. Avoid making the hole too large, as it can collapse during boiling and baking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

Bagel Ingredients

2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
Water for boiling

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to start making your bagels!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Soft Honey Wheat Yogurt Bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine the yogurt, honey, and olive oil. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.

Knead and Shape

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and form each into a bagel shape by poking a hole in the center and rolling it out.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a tablespoon of honey. Boil each bagel for about 1 minute on each side. Remove and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bagels for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before enjoying!

Once baked, these bagels are best enjoyed warm and fresh!

Pro Tips

For a little extra flavor, try adding toppings such as sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning before baking.

Storing and Reheating

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh within a day of baking, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain softness. If you need them to last longer, consider freezing them. Once they’ve cooled completely, wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They'll keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready, simply toast them directly from frozen or let them thaw at room temperature.

To reheat, you can either slice them in half and pop them in a toaster, or place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method will revive their crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft, just like fresh out of the oven. I often make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for busy mornings.

Serving Suggestions

These Soft Honey Wheat Yogurt Bagels are incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. While a classic choice is a smear of cream cheese, consider experimenting with herbed spreads or flavored butters to elevate your bagel experience. Adding slices of smoked salmon, fresh vegetables, or your favorite avocado toast toppings can turn these bagels into a full brunch dish that's impressive yet easy to prepare.

For a sweet twist, top your bagels with nut butter, fresh fruits, or a drizzle of honey for a decadent breakfast. I often like to pair them with seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches during their peak harvest for a refreshing touch. The balance of sweet and savory can add a delightful dimension to your morning routine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular flour instead of whole wheat?

Yes, you can substitute regular flour, but the texture and flavor will be different.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

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

→ Can I add toppings to the bagels?

Absolutely! You can sprinkle on sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even shredded cheese before baking.

→ How do I make bagels without yogurt?

If you don’t have yogurt, you can substitute with sour cream or even buttermilk for a slightly different flavor.