Cinnamon Raisin Yogurt Bagels With No Yeast

Created on January 18th, 2026 at 08:20 am

A cozy homemade breakfast bake without yeast or long waiting

Cinnamon raisin yogurt bagels bring a sense of warmth and familiarity to the kitchen, especially on quiet mornings when there is time to bake something simple and comforting. The scent of cinnamon gently fills the air as the bagels bake, and the raisins soften inside the dough, creating little pockets of sweetness in every bite. These bagels feel nostalgic, yet they are refreshingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers.

What makes this recipe especially appealing is how approachable it feels. There is no yeast to bloom, no long rise time, and no complicated shaping. Instead, the dough comes together quickly with Greek yogurt, creating bagels that are soft on the inside with a lightly golden exterior. They feel homemade in the best way, imperfect, warm, and meant to be enjoyed slowly with a cup of coffee or tea.

Quick Facts

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 bagels

Kitchen Utensils

This recipe is designed to feel relaxed and accessible, using everyday kitchen tools. There is no special baking equipment required, which makes it easy to fit into a normal morning routine.

• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Knife or bench scraper

Why Yogurt Bagels Work Without Yeast

Traditional bagels rely on yeast and time to develop structure and chew. Yogurt bagels take a different approach by using Greek yogurt as both moisture and structure. The thickness of the yogurt binds the flour together, while its natural acidity helps create a tender crumb during baking.

In this cinnamon raisin version, the yogurt also helps carry the warm spice flavor evenly throughout the dough. The result is a bagel that feels soft and satisfying without being dense. While these bagels are not identical to classic boiled bagels, they offer a homemade alternative that feels comforting, practical, and reliable.

Ingredients

For the Bagel Dough

• Plain Greek yogurt
• All purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Raisins

Optional Topping

• Egg wash
• Cinnamon sugar

Instructions

This dough comes together quickly, so it helps to have everything measured and ready before you start. The process is simple and forgiving, making it ideal for relaxed baking.

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until evenly mixed.
3. Add the Greek yogurt and mix until a soft dough forms.
4. Gently fold in the raisins, distributing them as evenly as possible.
5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead briefly until smooth and cohesive.
6. Divide the dough into four equal pieces.
7. Roll each piece into a rope and shape into a bagel, pressing the ends together firmly.
8. Place the shaped bagels onto the prepared baking sheet.
9. Brush lightly with egg wash if using and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar if desired.
10. Bake until the bagels are lightly golden and set through the center.
11. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Tips & Substitutions

If the dough feels sticky, add a small amount of flour while kneading until it becomes manageable. Avoid adding too much, as this can make the bagels dry.

Golden raisins can be used instead of regular raisins for a milder sweetness. You can also soak the raisins briefly in warm water before adding them to the dough to keep them extra soft.

For a stronger cinnamon flavor, add a small pinch of cinnamon directly into the yogurt before mixing it with the dry ingredients.

Storage & Make Ahead

These bagels store well at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Cinnamon raisin yogurt bagels freeze very well. Slice them before freezing so they can be toasted straight from frozen, making busy mornings easier without sacrificing homemade quality.

How These Bagels Fit Into a Breakfast Routine

One of the biggest strengths of this recipe is how easily it fits into real mornings. The bagels can be baked on the weekend and enjoyed throughout the week, making breakfast feel prepared rather than rushed.

They are filling enough to stand on their own, but they also pair well with yogurt, fruit, or eggs for a more complete meal. The balance of carbohydrates, protein, and natural sweetness makes them a satisfying option for both adults and kids.

Serving Ideas That Feel Special

Classic butter or cream cheese highlights the cinnamon flavor beautifully. For a slightly sweeter option, try honey or a light spread of jam.

These bagels also work well as part of a breakfast sandwich. Add a layer of cream cheese and sliced fruit for a simple but thoughtful morning plate.

Lightly toasting the bagels brings out the cinnamon aroma even more and adds a pleasant contrast between the crisp exterior and soft interior.

What Makes These Bagels Different From Store Bought Ones

Store bought cinnamon raisin bagels are often overly sweet and dense. These homemade yogurt bagels focus on balance instead. The sweetness from the raisins is gentle, and the cinnamon enhances rather than dominates.

Because they are baked fresh and made with simple ingredients, they feel lighter and more wholesome. The texture is soft and tender, making them enjoyable even without heavy toppings.

A Simple Baking Project Worth Repeating

Cinnamon raisin yogurt bagels are the kind of recipe that feels good to return to. They are easy enough to make often, yet special enough to feel rewarding every time.

They offer comfort, warmth, and a sense of care that is hard to replicate with store bought options. Baking them becomes less about effort and more about enjoying the process and the result.

FAQ

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt is recommended because it is thicker and provides the structure needed for the dough. Regular yogurt contains more moisture and can make the dough sticky and difficult to shape. If regular yogurt is your only option, strain it first or add extra flour gradually until the dough becomes workable.

Do these bagels taste very sweet?
No, the sweetness is mild and balanced. The raisins provide natural sweetness while the cinnamon adds warmth rather than sugariness. This makes the bagels suitable for both sweet toppings and more neutral spreads like butter or cream cheese.

Why didn’t my bagels rise very much?
These bagels rely on baking powder rather than yeast, so the rise is more subtle. Make sure your baking powder is fresh and evenly mixed into the flour to help achieve the best texture.

Can I make smaller bagels with this dough?
Yes, you can divide the dough into smaller portions to make mini bagels. Reduce the baking time slightly and keep an eye on them so they do not overbake.

How should I reheat leftover bagels?
Slicing and toasting is the best way to reheat these bagels. Toasting refreshes the texture and brings out the cinnamon aroma, making them taste freshly baked again.