Bagels are a delicious and popular bread item that can often seem intimidating to make from scratch. However, they can actually be quite simple to make at home with just a few ingredients. This 3 ingredient bagel recipe is about as easy as it gets, requiring just self-rising flour, Greek yogurt, and cream cheese for a tasty homemade treat.
In this blog post, we have an incredibly quick and easy 3 ingredient bagel recipe that will satisfy all your cravings. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal equipment, you can whip up a batch of delicious homemade bagels in no time.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You Will Need For 3 ingredient bagel recipe
To make these delectable 3 ingredient bagels, you will need the following:
- 2 cups of self-rising flour
- 1 cup of Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended for best texture)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Special Tips and Notes:
- Self-rising flour is recommended for this recipe as it already contains the necessary leavening agents. However, if you don’t have self-rising flour on hand, you can make your own by combining 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Greek yogurt works best for achieving a soft and chewy texture in the bagels. You can also use plain regular yogurt, but the texture may be slightly different.
- You can customize your bagels by adding toppings such as sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning before baking.
Equipment
Before diving into the recipe, gather the following kitchen tools and equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Whisk or fork for mixing
- Spoon or spatula for stirring
- Sharp knife or kitchen shears for shaping the bagels
- Pastry brush for the egg wash
Each item plays a crucial role in the bagel-making process. The mixing bowl allows you to combine the ingredients thoroughly, while the baking sheet provides a surface for baking the bagels. Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat prevents the bagels from sticking to the sheet. A whisk or fork helps in mixing the ingredients smoothly, and a spoon or spatula aids in stirring the dough. To achieve the classic bagel shape, a sharp knife or kitchen shears come in handy. Lastly, the pastry brush is used for applying the egg wash, which gives the bagels a shiny and golden crust.
Preparation
Now that you have all your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s move on to the preparation process. Follow these step-by-step instructions for efficient bagel-making:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt. Use a whisk or fork to mix them together until a sticky dough forms.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little extra flour while kneading.
- Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
- To form the bagel shape, flatten each dough ball and use your finger or the handle of a wooden spoon to poke a hole in the center. Gently stretch the hole to make it slightly bigger.
- Place the shaped bagels onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each bagel.
- In a small bowl, beat an egg. Use a pastry brush to brush the beaten egg over the tops of the bagels, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Optional: Add your desired toppings, such as sesame seeds or poppy seeds, to the egg-washed bagels.
- Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack before slicing and enjoying.
Note: For a fun twist, you can experiment with different flavors by adding herbs, spices, or even cheese to the dough during the kneading process.
Cooking Instructions
Now that the preparation is complete, it’s time to dive into the cooking instructions to achieve perfectly baked bagels. Follow these detailed steps to ensure great results:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt. Use a whisk or fork to mix them together until a sticky dough forms.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Adding a bit of extra flour while kneading will help if the dough is too sticky.
- Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
- To form the bagel shape, flatten each dough ball and use your finger or the handle of a wooden spoon to poke a hole in the center. Gently stretch the hole to make it slightly bigger.
- Place the shaped bagels onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each bagel.
- In a small bowl, beat an egg. Use a pastry brush to brush the beaten egg over the tops of the bagels, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Optional: Add your desired toppings, such as sesame seeds or poppy seeds, to the egg-washed bagels.
- Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
- To check if the bagels are ready, tap the bottom of one bagel and listen for a hollow sound. This indicates that they are fully baked.
- Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack before slicing and enjoying.
Remember, cooking times may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the bagels as they bake. Enjoy the tempting aroma that fills your kitchen while waiting for them to reach that perfect golden brown color!
Variations
You can easily customize this recipe to suit different dietary restrictions or preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace the self-rising flour with gluten-free self-rising flour to make gluten-free bagels.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt, such as almond or soy yogurt, and use a plant-based egg wash, like aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas), to achieve a similar glossy effect.
- Flavorful Additions: Add your favorite herbs, spices, or cheese to the dough during the kneading process to give your bagels an extra burst of flavor. Try rosemary and garlic for a savory twist or cinnamon and raisins for a sweeter option.
Remember to adjust the quantities and cooking times accordingly when making these variations to ensure the best results.
Tips and Tricks
To help you achieve the best results from this 3-ingredient bagel recipe, here are some useful tips and tricks:
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt: Full-fat Greek yogurt provides a creamier and richer texture compared to low-fat or fat-free varieties. It also adds a subtle tangy flavor to the bagels.
- Knead the dough thoroughly: Kneading the dough is essential for developing gluten and achieving a chewy yet soft texture in the bagels. Be patient and knead for at least 3-5 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Adjust the flour if necessary: Depending on the humidity and the consistency of your Greek yogurt, you may need to add a bit more flour while kneading to prevent the dough from becoming too sticky. Add small amounts at a time until the dough reaches the right consistency.
- Experiment with toppings: Take your bagels to the next level by adding various toppings such as sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning before baking. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delightful flavor.
- Don’t skip the egg wash: Applying the egg wash before baking gives the bagels a beautiful shiny and golden crust. It also helps the toppings adhere to the bagels, if you choose to use any.
- Allow proper cooling time: After removing the bagels from the oven, let them cool on a wire rack before slicing and indulging. This allows them to set and prevents them from becoming soggy.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be on your way to making exceptional homemade bagels that will impress your family and friends!
Serving Suggestions
Now that your homemade bagels are ready to be savored, let’s explore some delightful serving suggestions. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Classic Cream Cheese: Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on your freshly sliced bagel. Opt for plain, flavored, or even vegan cream cheese to suit your preference.
- Smoked Salmon: Top your bagel with thin slices of smoked salmon, a dollop of cream cheese, sliced red onions, and a sprinkle of capers for a delicious and savory combination.
- Avocado and Egg: Mash ripe avocado onto your toasted bagel and top it with a perfectly poached or fried egg for a creamy and protein-packed breakfast or brunch option.
- BLT Bagel: Create a delectable BLT bagel sandwich by layering crisp bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a touch of mayo.
- Bagel Chips and Dips: Slice your bagels into thin rounds, brush them with olive oil, and bake until crispy. Serve them alongside your favorite dips, such as hummus, tzatziki, or spinach and artichoke dip.
Feel free to experiment with different toppings and fillings to create your own personalized bagel creations. The possibilities are endless!
Nutrition Information
Now let’s take a look at the basic nutritional information for these 3-ingredient bagels:
- Servings: 4 bagels
- Calories per Bagel: Approximately 200 calories
- Protein: Approximately 12g per bagel
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35g per bagel
- Fat: Approximately 2g per bagel
Health Benefits: Greek yogurt is a good source of protein and calcium, which are essential for maintaining healthy bones and muscles. These bagels also provide carbohydrates for energy, making them a satisfying and balanced option for your day.
Please note that the nutrition information may vary slightly depending on the specific brand of ingredients used and any modifications made to the recipe.
Storage and Leftovers
If you have any leftovers or want to make a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week, here’s how to store your 3-ingredient bagels:
- Allow the bagels to cool completely to room temperature.
- Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or sealable plastic bag.
- Store at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 1 week.
- Before serving, you can toast the refrigerated bagels to refresh their texture and regain their slight crispness.
To reheat refrigerated bagels, you can either warm them in a toaster or oven until they are heated through. Enjoy the freshly reheated bagels with your favorite toppings once again!
Conclusion
We hope you try out this quick and easy 3-ingredient bagel recipe and enjoy the tasty results. We would love to hear your feedback and experiences with this recipe, so please feel free to leave your comments below.
Have you tried any interesting variations or combinations? Did you encounter any challenges or make any successful tweaks? We’re here to help, so don’t hesitate to ask any questions or share your thoughts. Let’s engage and share our love for homemade bagels together!
Remember, we value your feedback and are committed to responding to comments and engaging with our readers. Your input helps us improve our content and create a community of passionate food enthusiasts.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the delightful process of making your very own 3-ingredient bagels.
Share the love of delicious homemade treats with your family and friends, and don’t forget to spread the word about our friendly blog. Happy bagel-making!
Easy 3 ingredient bagels recipe
Homemade bagels are a delightful treat that can be made with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this three-ingredient bagel recipe will have you whipping up fresh, chewy, and flavorful bagels in no time. With just a little patience and minimal effort, you can enjoy the satisfaction of creating your own delicious bagels without the need for complex ingredients. So, let's get started!
Ingredients
- 2 cups self-rising flour: Self-rising flour is the primary dry ingredient that simplifies the bagel-making process. It contains the necessary leavening agents, such as baking powder, which help the bagels rise and become airy.
- 1.5 cups Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is the secret ingredient for both the dough's texture and flavor. It adds a tangy richness to the bagels and keeps them moist on the inside while giving them a slightly crisp exterior.
- 1 egg (optional): An egg wash is optional but recommended for a glossy, golden finish on your bagels. You can also sprinkle your choice of toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning over the egg-washed bagels.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large bowl, mix together the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough a few times until it comes together into a smooth ball.
- Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round bagel shape, poking a hole in the center with your finger.
- Place the bagels onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, then flip and bake for 5 more minutes until golden brown.
- Once cooled, slice the bagels in half horizontally. Spread cream cheese on each bagel half and enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 20 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 212Total Fat: 5gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 19mgSodium: 393mgCarbohydrates: 34gFiber: 1gSugar: 3gProtein: 8g
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