If you're craving a fresh, warm bagel but want a healthier, quicker option, this 3-ingredient bagel recipe with yogurt is your answer. Inspired by the need for an easy yet delicious breakfast, this quick bagel recipe that requires no yeast, no rising time, and just a few basic ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
These 3-ingredient yeast free bagels are perfect for those looking for a quick, yeast-free option that’s also healthy and easy to prepare. Whether you’re making them in the oven or using an air fryer, these bagels are soft, chewy, and full of protein.
If you're looking to make them gluten-free, you can easily swap in almond flour, and with just a few tweaks, you can enjoy a low-calorie, 3-ingredient protein bagel. Ready in under 40 minutes, this simple recipe is perfect for busy mornings, a satisfying snack, or a healthier alternative to traditional bagels.
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🧂Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Making these 3 ingredient bagel recipe with yogurt is a breeze, and the ingredients are easy to find in most kitchens, but there are a few substitutions and variations you can try based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for the bagels, giving them structure and texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to check that the flour blend includes xanthan gum or another binding agent for the right consistency. For a low-carb version, almond flour works well and you can make 3 ingredient bagels with almond flour. But may give a slightly denser bagels.
- Low-Fat Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt helps bind the dough and adds a nice richness. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, regular yogurt can be used, but the bagels texture will differ slightly. For a dairy-free or vegan 3- ingredient bagel, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt such as almond yogurt or coconut yogurt. Just make sure the yogurt is unsweetened for the best flavor balance. You can also use homemade curd, but only after draining the excess moisture (use hung curd).
- Baking Powder: This is the leavening agent that gives the yeast free bagels their rise. Be sure to use baking powder rather than baking soda to get the right lift. If you’re out of baking powder, you can make your own by combining ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar and ¼ teaspoon of baking soda as a replacement for each teaspoon of baking powder.
- Salt: A small amount of salt is used to enhance the flavor. You can reduce or skip the salt if you're following a low-sodium diet, but it’s recommended for flavor balance. If you're on a specific diet like kosher, feel free to use kosher salt, but adjust the amount as it's typically coarser than table salt.
- Water: The water is added to adjust the consistency of the dough. If you want a slightly richer dough, you can swap water for milk or almond milk. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to get the right texture.
Optional Add-ins & Variations for the 3-ingredient bagel :
- Toppings: For a classic bagel topping, sprinkle the dough with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning before baking. You could also brush the bagels with a little olive oil and sprinkle with coarse salt for a savory crunch.
- Sweet Bagels: If you’re craving a sweeter yogurt bagel, try adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough for a touch of sweetness.
- Herbs & Spices: For a herbed twist to you r yogurt bagels, you can mix in some dried garlic powder, onion powder, or rosemary for added flavor in the dough itself.
- Cheese: Add some shredded cheddar or parmesan directly into the dough for a cheesy version, or sprinkle on top before baking.
⏲️Equipments
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the dry and wet ingredients.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: To accurately measure the ingredients.
- Dough whisk or wooden Spatula: For mixing the dough.
- Baking Sheet: To bake the bagels on, with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
- Cooling Rack: To cool the bagels after baking.
🔪Instructions to make 3-ingredient bagels
1. Combining the Dough Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Use a whisk to mix them together until they’re evenly distributed. Now, add the Greek yogurt to the dry ingredients and gently mix with the back of a wooden ladle or dough whisk.
As the dough starts to come together, you may notice it’s a little thick or sticky—this is normal! Slowly add water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough reaches a soft, workable consistency.
Tip: Be careful not to add too much water at once—add just enough to make the dough smooth, but not too wet. If your dough feels too sticky, you can sprinkle a little extra flour to help.
2. Kneading the Dough
Once your ingredients are combined, it’s time to get your hands in there! Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured work surface and begin kneading. Knead the dough for about 3-5 minutes, folding it over itself and pressing down to develop the texture.
You’ll want it to become soft and elastic, but not overly sticky. If you’re using a stand mixer, you can attach the dough hook and knead on low speed for 2-3 minutes until the dough comes together.
Tip: Don’t overwork the dough—just knead enough to get it smooth and pliable, or your bagels might turn out dense. If you’re struggling with sticky dough, sprinkle a little more flour while kneading.
3. Shaping Bagels
Now comes the fun part: shaping! Divide your dough into 4 equal portions and roll each piece into a ball. Then, poke a hole in the center of each ball with your finger and gently stretch it to form a bagel shape.
Don’t worry if your bagels aren’t perfectly round—this is homemade baking, and they’ll taste amazing either way! Place each shaped bagel onto your prepared baking sheet.
If you want a glossy finish, you can brush the tops with a mix of little milk and honey ( egg wash) before baking. Now sprinkle the bagel seasoning of your choice. I have used everything bagel seasoning with a spicy kick of jalapenos.
4. Baking the Bagels
Preheat the oven to 400 0F ( 2040C). When ready, pop the tray in the oven and bake your bagels until they’re golden brown and cooked through. This will take about 20-25 minutes, depending on your oven.
Tip: Keep an eye on them towards the end to make sure they don’t over-brown. Once done, transfer the bagels to a cooling rack to cool for a few minutes before enjoying them warm!
Baking 3-Ingredient Bagels in the Air Fryer
If you prefer to use your air fryer for baking, you’re in for a treat! It’s a quick and efficient way to get crispy, golden bagels without turning on the oven. Here’s how to bake your 3-ingredient bagels in the air fryer:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). This ensures that your bagels cook evenly and get a nice crispy crust.
- Shape the Bagels: Follow the same steps for shaping the dough into bagels. Once shaped, place the bagels on a parchment paper liner or lightly grease the air fryer basket to prevent sticking. Be sure to leave some space between each bagel so they cook evenly.
- Air Fry the Bagels: Place the shaped bagels into the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-17 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and have a nice crisp exterior. If you prefer your bagels a bit more crisp, you can add another 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a cooling rack. This helps them set and keeps the bottoms from becoming too soft.
🍽Serving Suggestions
These 3-ingredient no yeast bagels are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in so many delicious ways. Here are a few serving ideas to elevate your bagels:
- Classic Spread: Start with a simple spread like cream cheese—add some fresh herbs, smoked salmon, or cucumbers for an easy and tasty breakfast.
- Sweet & Savory: For a sweet twist, spread peanut butter or almond butter on your bagels, and top with sliced bananas or a drizzle of honey. For a savory option, try adding avocado and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a satisfying snack.
- Egg & Cheese: Make a delicious bagel sandwich by adding a scrambled or fried egg with melted cheese. You can also add bacon or sausage for an extra protein boost.
- Cottage cheese, honey and nuts spread: pulse some cottage cheese with honey and top with chopped nuts.
- As Part of a Meal: Serve your bagels alongside a warm bowl of soup or a fresh salad for a light yet fulfilling meal. They also pair wonderfully with charcuterie and cheese for an easy appetizer platter.
- Bagel with Butter: Sometimes, keeping it simple is the best choice. Just toast the bagels and spread them with a little butter or ghee for a warm, comforting treat.
🔗 Related Recipes
- Sesame Seed Bagels: Vegan Bagel Recipe
- Sourdough Bagels Recipe
- Toast Bagels in Air Fryer: Perfectly Crispy!
- Banh Mi Bread Recipe
- Oats and Millets bun
- Homemade mini hot dog buns
- Spanish Bread
These 3-ingredient bagels are the perfect solution for a quick, healthy breakfast or snack without all the fuss. Whether you’re making them with yogurt for extra protein, baking them in an air fryer for a crisp finish, or adding your favorite toppings, this simple recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
If you tried this 3-ingredient easy bagel recipe, let me know how they turned out in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends who are looking for a simple, delicious breakfast option!
3-Ingredient Bagels
Equipment
- Equipments
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Dough whisk or wooden Spatula
- Baking Sheet easy cleanup.
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- ½ cup low fat Plain Greek Yogurt
- 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoon Everything bagel seasoning
- 2-3 tablespoon water
Instructions
Combining the Dough Ingredients
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Use a whisk to mix the dry ingredients until evenly distributed.
- Add Plain Greek yogurt to the dry ingredients and mix gently with the back of a wooden ladle or dough whisk.
- As the dough starts to come together, it may feel thick or sticky, which is normal.
- Slowly add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough reaches a soft, workable consistency.
Kneading the Dough
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface.
- Begin kneading the dough for about 5-6 minutes, folding it over itself and pressing it down.
- The dough should become soft and elastic but not overly sticky.
- If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and knead on low speed for 2-3 minutes until the dough comes together.
Shaping the Bagels
- Divide the dough into four equal portions and roll each portion into a ball.
- Poke a hole in the center of each ball using your finger and gently stretch it to form the bagel shape. (Refer to the process shots given in the detailed blog post.)
- Place the shaped bagels onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with a mix of little milk and honey ( egg wash) before baking. Now sprinkle the bagel seasoning of your choice.
Baking the Bagels
- In oven:* Bake the bagels until they are golden brown and cooked through, which should take around 20-25 minutes.*Transfer the bagels to a cooling rack and let them cool for a few minutes before enjoying.
- In Air Fryer:* Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for an even cook and a crisp crust.* Place the bagels into the air fryer basket and cook for 15-17 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.* Add 2-3 extra minutes if you prefer them more crisp.* Once done, remove the bagels from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a cooling rack to prevent the bottoms from becoming too soft.
Notes
- Dough Consistency: Be cautious when adding water—add it gradually to avoid making the dough too wet.
- Kneading Tip: Don’t overwork the dough; just knead enough to get it smooth and pliable.
- Shaping Tip: Don’t stress over perfect circles—this homemade bagel recipe don’t need to be flawless, they’ll still taste great!
- Egg Wash: For a glossy finish, brush the tops with a mix of milk and honey (egg wash) before baking.
- Seasoning: You can sprinkle bagel seasoning of your choice, such as everything bagel seasoning or a spicy kick of jalapeños.
- Air Fryer Tip: If you prefer a crispier bagel, extend the cooking time by a few minutes in the air fryer, but keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
📋Nutrition Facts
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