3 Ingredient Bagels: 30 Minutes, Easy and Delicious

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Introduction

There’s something magical about pulling a tray of fresh, golden bagels out of the oven. The smell, the texture, that chewy bite—it’s the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug. But let’s be honest: traditional bagels are a labor of love. Hours of proofing, boiling, and baking? Not exactly a weekday project.

Enter 3 Ingredient Bagels: 30 Minutes, Easy and Delicious! This recipe is my ultimate lifesaver when I’m craving bagels but don’t have the time (or patience) for the long process. With just self-rising flour, Greek yogurt, and an egg wash, you can create bagels that are soft, flavorful, and totally satisfying. No yeast, no waiting, no boiling—just mix, shape, bake, and enjoy.

I remember making these for the first time on a Sunday morning when I was short on groceries. I was skeptical—how could just three ingredients possibly create real bagels? But after one bite, I was hooked. The tangy Greek yogurt balances beautifully with the flour, and the egg wash adds that gorgeous golden finish. Ever since, these quick bagels have been on repeat in my kitchen.

So whether you’re a busy parent, a student on the go, or simply someone who wants fresh bagels without the fuss, this recipe is about to become your new favorite.

Ingredients for 3 Ingredient Bagels: 30 Minutes, Easy and Delicious

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these quick and tasty bagels:

  • 2 cups self-rising flour
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or 2%)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Optional toppings:

  • Sesame seeds
  • Poppy seeds
  • Everything bagel seasoning
  • Shredded cheese

Substitution Ideas

  • No self-rising flour? Make your own by mixing 2 cups all-purpose flour with 3 teaspoons baking powder and 1 teaspoon salt.
  • Dairy-free version: Use a thick, unsweetened dairy-free yogurt (like coconut or almond yogurt) and brush with plant-based milk instead of egg.
  • Gluten-free option: Swap self-rising flour for a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum.
  • Egg-free: Skip the egg wash and brush the tops with olive oil or milk for browning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making 3 Ingredient Bagels: 30 Minutes, Easy and Delicious is surprisingly simple. Here’s how:

  1. Preheat your oven. Set it to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the dough. In a large bowl, combine the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead. Lightly flour your hands and surface, then knead the dough for about 3–4 minutes until smooth and slightly elastic. If it’s sticky, add a touch more flour.
  4. Shape the bagels. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a rope, then form into a ring by pinching the ends together.
  5. Prepare for baking. Place the bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg to give them that glossy, golden finish.
  6. Add toppings. Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning on top if desired.
  7. Bake. Place in the oven and bake for 22–25 minutes, until the bagels are puffed and golden brown.
  8. Cool slightly and enjoy. Let them rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Extra Tips for Success

  • Serving suggestions: These bagels are perfect plain, toasted with cream cheese, or stuffed with sandwich fillings. Try them as breakfast bagels, lunch sandwiches, or mini pizzas!
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in a toaster or oven before eating.
  • Freezing: Freeze cooled bagels in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and toast before serving.
  • Variations: Add cinnamon sugar to the dough for a sweet twist, mix in shredded cheese for a cheesy bagel, or fold in dried herbs for extra flavor.

Nutritional Information

According to The East Coast Kitchen, each bagel (without toppings) contains approximately:

  • Calories: 150–160 kcal
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fat: 2 g
  • Fiber: 1 g

(Values may vary depending on yogurt and flour used.)

FAQ Section

1. How long does it take to make these bagels?
Only 30 minutes total! Just mix, shape, bake, and you’re done.

2. Can I substitute the Greek yogurt?
Yes, use thick non-dairy yogurt for a vegan version, or sour cream for a richer flavor.

3. Can I freeze these bagels?
Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight bag for up to 2 months. Toast straight from frozen for best results.

4. Do I need to boil these bagels like traditional recipes?
Nope! That’s the beauty of this shortcut—they go straight into the oven.

5. How do I make them more chewy like classic bagels?
Brush with water instead of egg before baking and extend the bake time by 2–3 minutes.

Conclusion

If you’ve ever thought making bagels at home was too complicated, this recipe will change your mind. 3 Ingredient Bagels: 30 Minutes, Easy and Delicious are proof that you don’t need yeast, boiling pots, or hours in the kitchen to enjoy fresh, homemade bagels.

They’re quick, customizable, and perfect for busy mornings or last-minute meal prep. Whether you enjoy them plain, slathered with cream cheese, or loaded with sandwich fillings, these bagels deliver on flavor and convenience every time.

So go ahead—roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and whip up a batch of these easy bagels. Trust me, once you taste them, you’ll wonder why you ever bought bagels at the store.

If you try this recipe, don’t forget to leave a comment below and share your creations—I’d love to see how you top your bagels!