The Easiest Two Ingredient Bagels
As a former New Yorker and self-proclaimed bagel enthusiast, I will never turn down a really good bagel. Whether toasted and smothered in cream cheese or piled high with savory toppings, there's just something about a fresh bagel that hits the spot.
But let's be real, making your own bagels can be a daunting task, especially when you're short on time. That's why I was thrilled to discover (what I consider) the easiest bagel recipe known to man - the two ingredient bagel.
Just two simple ingredients and you'll have a batch of fresh, homemade bagels in no time. Keep reading and I'll teach you how to make them yourself and answer all the questions you might have.
What two ingredients are required to make two-ingredient bagels?
The first ingredient is self-rising flour. This type of flour already contains the necessary leavening agents (baking powder and salt) to make the dough rise. It's important to use self-rising flour for this recipe as regular flour will not rise properly without additional ingredients.
If you don't have self-rising flour, you can make it at home. Simply mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder.
The second ingredient is plain, non-fat Greek yogurt. This will serve as the binder for the dough and give the bagels their signature tangy flavor. It's important to use Greek yogurt as it is thicker than regular yogurt and will create a sturdier dough.
The last "ingredient" is optional, but I always use an egg wash and sprinkle Trader Joe's Everything But The Bagel seasoning (a blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic & onion, and sea salt flakes) on top to make an everything bagel when I want it to be savory.
Is it possible to make two-ingredient bagels without yeast?
Yes, it is possible to make two-ingredient bagels without yeast. The traditional method of making bagels involves a dough that is left to rise for several hours, but this can be time-consuming and not everyone has yeast on hand.
The good news is that you can still make delicious no yeast bagels with just two simple ingredients: self-raising flour and Greek yogurt.
How long do two ingredient bagels take to bake?
Two-ingredient bagels are incredibly quick and easy to make. Once you've mixed your dough and formed your bagels, they should take around 20 minutes to bake in the oven. You'll know they're done when the tops are a beautiful golden-brown color.
What type of yogurt is best for making two ingredient bagels?
When making two-ingredient bagels, it is best to use nonfat plain Greek yogurt. The thickness and tanginess of Greek yogurt make it the perfect substitute for traditional bagel ingredients like cream cheese or sour cream.
Additionally, the high protein content in Greek yogurt makes these bagels a nutritious and filling option. You can use whole milk greek yogurt too, but be sure to avoid any flavored varieties as they may alter the taste of the bagels.
How do you shape two-ingredient bagels?
Shaping two-ingredient bagels is actually quite simple. After kneading the dough, divide it into four equal parts and roll them into balls. Then, use your finger to poke a hole through the center of each ball and shape it into a bagel shape.
If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour to make it easier to work with. Once you have your bagel shape, brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle with your desired toppings before baking. It's that easy!
Are two-ingredient bagels healthier than regular bagels?
Two-ingredient bagels are often seen as a healthier alternative to regular bagels because they are made with only two ingredients: flour and non-fat Greek yogurt. This means that they are lower in calories, fat, and sugar than traditional bagels.
Additionally, Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and calcium, which makes these bagels a nutritious choice. The use of self-rising flour also eliminates the need for additional salt and baking powder, which can be high in sodium.
By making these bagels at home, you also have control over the ingredients and can customize them to your liking. For example, you can add in whole wheat flour for added fiber or use different seasoning blends to switch up the flavor.
What is the best way to store two ingredient bagels once they’re baked?
Storing your bagels properly will ensure they stay fresh and tasty for days. Here are some tips to keep them delicious when you're ready to eat them:
Room temperature: If you plan to eat your bagels within the day, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Do not refrigerate them as this can dry them out.
Refrigerator: If you want to store your bagels for a few days, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 5 days.
Freezer: To store your bagels for longer, freeze them. Wrap each bagel in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat them, thaw them at room temperature or in the microwave and enjoy!
Remember to label your bagels with the date you made them so you can keep track of their freshness. Also, don't forget to toast them before eating for that crispy, warm, and freshly baked taste.
What toppings work best on two ingredient bagels?
I love that these bagels serve as the perfect vessel for just about any topping, allowing you to customize them to your liking. Here are some of my favorites to get you started:
Cream cheese: A classic topping that pairs perfectly with the simplicity of the bagel. Try flavored cream cheese such as chive, herb or garlic for extra flavor.
Avocado and egg: Mash up some avocado and spread it on your bagel. I always sprinkle a little bit of Lawry's Seasoned Salt on my avocado, so you can do that or sprinkle one of your favorite seasonings. Top it off with a fried egg for a filling and healthy breakfast.
Smoked salmon: Spread cream cheese onto your bagel and top with smoked salmon, red onions, and capers for a delicious savory breakfast bagel full of flavor.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to toppings. Get creative and enjoy!
Are these bagels weight watchers friendly?
Yes, these two ingredient bagels are weight watchers friendly! Each bagel is only 3 points on the Weight Watchers Freestyle program, making them a great option for those on a health journey. Plus, they are made with non-fat Greek yogurt, which provides protein and calcium while keeping the fat content low.
Can I use almond flour in these bagels?
Unfortunately, almond flour is not a suitable substitute for the self-rising flour in this recipe. The self-rising flour provides the necessary structure and rise for the bagels, while almond flour does not have the same properties.
Can I make these bagels in the air fryer?
Yes, you can make these bagels in the air fryer! Simply follow the same steps for making the dough and shaping the bagels. Instead of baking them in the oven, preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees and cook the bagels for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Brush them with egg wash and sprinkle with Everything But The Bagel seasoning before cooking. Your air fryer bagels will come out crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, just like the baked version.
Two Ingredient Bagels
Ingredients
- 1 cup self-rising flour (or add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1.5 teaspoons baking powder to 1 cup all-purpose flour to make your own)
- 1 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 egg for egg wash
- Trader Joe's Everything But The Bagel Seasoning (Optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper, and spray with pam.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and Greek yogurt. I used a fork to mix it together. It will end up in flatter, sticky pieces.
- At this point get your hands in there and knead the dough until it's a bit more smooth. If it is sticking to your hands, sprinkle a little more flour in so you can keep going.
- Once you have a nice ball, divide the dough into 4 balls. Roll out these balls and then stick the two ends together to make a circle. If your dough is not sticking, score the two ends with a knife then try again and pinch it together.
- Put the bagels on the baking sheet. Scramble the egg to make the egg wash and use a brush (or your finger) to spread it on the top of each bagel. Sprinkle the bagels with Everything But The Bagel seasoning. Bake for 20 or so minutes until the tops are a golden brown. Enjoy!
