3 Ingredient Greek Yogurt Bagels Recipe

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In the mornings of our daily lives, where every second counts and simplicity is the key to a smooth start, the quest for quick, wholesome breakfast recipes is never-ending. It’s on these particularly rushed mornings or during a craving for a homemade touch without the intricacy of traditional baking that my discovery of the 3 Ingredient Greek Yogurt Bagels recipe felt like striking gold.

How to make 3 Ingredient Greek Yogurt Bagels

3 Ingredient Greek Yogurt Bagels are a simple and healthy recipe that uses just three main ingredients: Greek yogurt, self-rising flour, and an egg.

Ingredients

• Self-Rising Flour: The convenience of self-rising flour cannot be overstated. It’s mixed with leavening agents and salt, so you won’t need to add these separately. You’ll need about 2 cups of flour for the dough to create approximately 4 medium-sized bagels.
• Plain Greek Yogurt: A staple in healthier recipes, plain Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture and a slight tang to the bagels. Its thick consistency is ideal for this recipe, contributing not just flavor but also the necessary acidity to activate the leavening agent in the flour. You’ll want 2 cups of Greek yogurt.
• Egg (optional): Though traditionally used as a wash, the egg helps to create a golden-brown crust with a professional-looking shine. It’s optional but recommended for the aesthetic and textural qualities it brings.

Instructions

1. Prep Work: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the bagels from sticking.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt. Use a spoon to mix them until they start to come together, then use your hands to knead the mixture into a dough. The consistency should be tacky, but not so sticky that it’s unmanageable.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 8 minutes or until it’s smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, gradually add a bit more flour until it reaches the right consistency.
4. Shape the Bagels: Divide the dough equally into 4 parts (or more if you prefer smaller bagels). Roll each section into ropes, then connect the ends to form bagel shapes. Make sure the ends are securely attached by pinching them together.
5. Egg Wash (Optional): Beat your egg in a small bowl. Use a pastry brush to apply the wash over the top and sides of each bagel. This will give them a glossy finish and help any toppings stick.
6. Add Toppings (Optional): Now’s the time to sprinkle your choice of toppings, such as sesame seeds, poppy seeds, minced garlic, or coarse salt over the egg wash.
7. Bake: Place the bagels on your prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until they’re a rich golden brown.
8. Cool: Let the bagels cool on a wire rack before slicing. This ensures they have time to set and develop the right texture.

Tips for Perfect Bagels

• Yogurt Consistency: The thickness of the Greek yogurt is crucial. Use a strainer to drain any excess liquid from the yogurt if it seems too watery; the density of the yogurt affects the dough’s moisture level.
• Kneading: This step is crucial. Kneading activates the gluten in the flour, giving the bagels their chewy texture.
• Bagel Size: If you prefer your bagels on the smaller side, divide the dough into more than four pieces, but remember to adjust the baking time accordingly.
• Cooking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your bagels, especially towards the end of the baking time. They should be golden brown but not too dark.
• Cooling: Always let the bagels cool for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. Cutting into them too soon can result in a gummy texture inside.

What to serve with

Pairing your freshly baked 3 Ingredient Greek Yogurt Bagels with complementary sides and spreads can turn a simple bagel into a gourmet experience.

Savory Toppings and Sides

Cream Cheese Variations

• Classic Cream Cheese: Sometimes, keeping it simple is best. Classic cream cheese on a warm, freshly baked 3 Ingredient Greek Yogurt Bagels is a timeless choice.
• Flavored Cream Cheese: Spice up your cream cheese by adding fresh herbs, garlic, or spices. For something sweet, consider blending in honey or fresh berries.

Avocado

• Avocado Spread: Mashed avocado with a dash of lemon juice, salt, and pepper makes a creamy and healthy topping.
• Avocado and Egg: For a hearty breakfast, top your bagel with sliced avocado and a poached or fried egg.

Smoked Salmon

• Lox Bagel Sandwich: For a classic New York deli experience, combine cream cheese, smoked salmon, capers, and thinly sliced red onions.

Deli Meats and Cheese

• Ham and Swiss Cheese: A slice of ham and Swiss cheese melted under the broiler can create a quick, satisfying meal.
• Turkey and Avocado: For a lighter option, layer turkey slices with avocado and lettuce.

Eggs

• Egg Salad: A creamy egg salad spread on a sliced bagel makes a delightful lunch.
• Breakfast Bagel: Scrambled or fried eggs, maybe with some bacon or sausage, can be sandwiched in a bagel for a filling breakfast.

Sweet Toppings and Spreads

Nut Butters

• Peanut Butter: Spread a generous layer of peanut butter on your bagel and top with banana slices or a drizzle of honey.
• Almond Butter: Almond butter and sliced strawberries offer a nutty and fruity combination that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Fresh Fruits and Honey

• Berry Compote: A berry compote or fresh berries with a bit of honey drizzle can satisfy your sweet tooth in a more nutritious way.
• Apple and Cinnamon: Thinly sliced apples, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a dollop of yogurt can make a delightful treat.

Sweet Cream Cheese Spreads

• Cinnamon Raisin Cream Cheese: Mix cinnamon and raisins into your cream cheese for a sweetly spiced spread.
• Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese: For those with a sweet tooth, folding mini chocolate chips into cream cheese makes for a decadent spread.

Ingredients Substitutes

The beauty of 3 Ingredient Greek Yogurt Bagels is their simplicity and versatility, making it easy to substitute ingredients based on dietary preferences, allergies, or simply what you have on hand.

Self-Rising Flour

Substitutes for Self-Rising Flour:

• All-Purpose Flour with Leavening Agents: If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt. For each cup of self-rising flour, use 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
• Whole Wheat Flour: For a healthier alternative, you can use whole wheat flour. Note that whole wheat flour has less gluten than white flour, so the texture of your bagels might be denser. As mentioned above, you’ll also need to add baking powder and salt.
• Gluten-Free Flour Mix: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that is intended for baking. Ensure it contains xanthan gum, or add it according to the package instructions to prevent the dough from being too crumbly.

Greek Yogurt

Substitutes for Greek Yogurt:

• Regular Yogurt: If Greek yogurt is not available, you can substitute it with plain regular yogurt. It’s best to strain it through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove extra whey, which mimics the thicker texture of Greek yogurt.
• Dairy-Free Yogurt: For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based yogurt such as almond, soy, or coconut yogurt. Look for one with minimal additives for the best consistency, similar to Greek yogurt.
• Sour Cream: Sour cream can work as a substitute due to its similar texture and tanginess. However, this will increase the fat content of your bagels.

Egg (for Egg Wash, Optional)

Substitutes for Egg Wash:

• Milk or Cream Wash: Brushing the top of your bagels with milk or cream can give them a color and shine, though not as glossy as an egg wash.
• Butter: Melted butter can be used for a richer flavor and will help the topping to adhere.
• Olive Oil or Coconut Oil: For a vegan option, a light brushing of olive oil or coconut oil will help brown the crust and allow toppings to stick.
• Water: For the simplest solution, plain water can also help your toppings stick.

Final Thoughts

When serving 3 Ingredient Greek Yogurt Bagels, the possibilities for pairings are virtually endless. Aim for a balance of flavors and textures, considering the interplay of sweet and savory, creamy and crispy.

More 3 Ingredients Recipes:

• 3 Ingredient Beer Bread Recipe
• 3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies Without Butter