Easy Homemade Bagels Recipe

If you’re craving that perfect, chewy, golden-brown treat from your favorite bakery, look no further—this recipe for Easy Homemade Bagels will have you savoring bagels fresh from your own oven. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create bagels that boast a crispy crust, tender crumb, and that classic dense chew everyone adores. Whether you’re a breakfast lover or want to impress guests with a homemade brunch, these bagels are destined to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the list intimidate you—each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that iconic bagel color. From yeast that brings life and rise to the dough, to baking soda that gives the crust its irresistible shine and bite, these essentials come together beautifully.

• Warm Water (1 1/3 cups): The ideal temperature activates the yeast without killing it—warm, not hot!
• Instant Quick Rise Yeast (2 1/4 tsp): This ensures a fast yet reliable rise that keeps your bagels light and airy inside.
• Granulated Sugar (1 tbsp): Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory crust.
• Bread Flour (3 1/2 cups): High in protein for that chewy, chewy texture only great bread flour can offer.
• Salt (1 1/2 tsp): Enhances all flavors and helps strengthen the gluten network for elasticity.
• Boiling Water (6-8 cups): Used for the baking soda bath, it creates the signature chewy crust and shiny exterior.
• Baking Soda (1 tbsp): When added to the boiling water, it alkalizes the water helping to develop the crust’s unique texture and color.
• Honey (1 tbsp): Added to the boiling bath for a touch of sweetness and to encourage beautiful browning.
• Large Egg (1): Makes the egg wash for a glossy, professional finish.
• Water (1 tbsp): Mixed with the egg to create the perfect wash consistency.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning: Optional but highly recommended for adding a flavorful crunch on top.

How to Make Easy Homemade Bagels

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by whisking together the warm water, instant yeast, and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Let this mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it looks foamy and alive—that’s your yeast waking up and getting ready to work its magic. This step is crucial because it guarantees your bagels will rise beautifully and develop that airy interior we all love.

Step 2: Form the Dough

Add the bread flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Using a dough hook or your hands, mix the ingredients until it forms a dough that looks thick and slightly dry or scaly. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough becomes soft, smooth, and slightly tacky. The kneading strengthens the gluten strands, which is essential for that perfect chewy bite.

Step 3: First Rise

Shape the dough into a smooth ball and place it into a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm spot for 60 to 90 minutes. You’ll see the dough nearly double in size. A warm environment accelerates the rise, so if your kitchen is cooler, just give it a bit more time.

Step 4: Prepare for Shaping

While your dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425ºF and position the oven rack in the middle. Prepare a baking sheet lined with a silicone mat or lightly sprayed parchment paper—this prevents sticking during baking and helps your bagels come out perfectly golden.

Step 5: Divide and Shape the Bagels

Once the dough has risen, cut it into 8 equal portions. You can eyeball this or weigh each piece for consistency—around 100 grams each is perfect. Roll each piece into a smooth ball on an unfloured surface to maintain a slight tackiness. Using your thumb and finger, poke a hole through each ball and gently stretch it to form that classic bagel ring shape. Let them rest for 10 minutes to relax the dough before boiling.

Step 6: Prepare the Baking Soda Honey Bath

While the bagels rest, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add baking soda and honey, stirring to dissolve. The honey adds a subtle sweetness and helps with browning, while the baking soda creates a slightly alkaline bath that’s critical for the bagels’ unique crust.

Step 7: Boil the Bagels

Carefully place 3 to 4 bagels into the boiling water bath. Boil each side for about 1 minute using a timer to ensure precision. The bagels will puff and wrinkle but don’t worry—they’ll firm up in the oven. After boiling, remove with a slotted spatula or mesh strainer and place them back on your prepared baking sheet to drain excess water.

Step 8: Egg Wash and Seasoning

Brush each boiled bagel with a mixture of egg and water for that gorgeous shiny finish. If you love the classic flavors, sprinkle generously with everything bagel seasoning. This step elevates your Easy Homemade Bagels from simple to spectacular with just a quick sprinkle.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake the bagels for 20 to 25 minutes until they have a glossy, light to medium golden color. The smell alone will convince you it’s worth every minute. After baking, let them cool on a wire rack for at least 5 minutes to set the crust and make them easier to slice.

How to Serve Easy Homemade Bagels

Garnishes

Bagels are incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. Classic cream cheese with a sprinkle of fresh herbs is always a winner. Feel adventurous? Try smoked salmon, thinly sliced cucumber, capers, and a squeeze of lemon for a sophisticated twist. Don’t forget the classic butter or a drizzle of honey for a sweeter option.

Side Dishes

Pair your Easy Homemade Bagels with fresh fruit salad for a bright contrast or a warm bowl of your favorite soup to complement the hearty texture. A side of scrambled eggs or avocado slices also creates a balanced, protein-packed meal perfect for any time of day.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not turn your bagels into miniature sandwiches with layers of deli meats, cheese, and crisp lettuce? Or toast them lightly and spread with nut butter and sliced banana for a fun snack. For brunch, serve bagels with an assortment of flavored cream cheeses and fresh veggies for a build-your-own bagel station that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra bagels, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 to 2 days. This keeps the crust from becoming too hard while maintaining that chewy inside texture. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry out the bagels.

Freezing

Easy Homemade Bagels freeze wonderfully. Once fully cooled, wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed container or zip-top bag. Stored this way, they keep for up to one month and are ready for whenever your bagel cravings strike.

Reheating

To bring frozen bagels back to life, take them out of the freezer and allow them to thaw overnight at room temperature. Before serving, toast them lightly in a toaster oven or regular toaster to regain that crispy crust and warm, soft center. This method keeps your bagels tasting freshly baked every time.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

While bread flour is preferred for its higher protein content that creates the signature chew, you can substitute all-purpose flour in a pinch. Just expect a slightly softer texture.

Why do bagels need to be boiled before baking?

The boiling step gelatinizes the starch on the bagel’s surface, which helps develop a chewy crust and glossy exterior when baked. It’s what sets bagels apart from regular bread rolls.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise slowly in the fridge overnight. This slow fermentation improves flavor and allows busy bakers to plan ahead.

Is everything bagel seasoning necessary?

It’s not mandatory but highly recommended for that authentic flavor boost. You can also customize with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or garlic flakes depending on your taste.

How do I know when the bagels are done baking?

Look for a shiny, golden-brown crust that feels firm to the touch. The bagels should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, which means they’re fully baked through.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about biting into a warm, chewy bagel fresh from the oven, and making Easy Homemade Bagels allows you to enjoy that joy anytime. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and endless serving possibilities, this recipe invites you to bring a beloved bakery classic into your kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never want store-bought again!

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