Bagels are beloved for their chewy texture and glossy crust, making them a breakfast staple and sandwich essential. Baking them at home ensures freshness, customization, and better flavor. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can achieve bakery-quality bagels in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 4 cups (500g) bread flour
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water (105–115°F / 40.5–46°C)
- 1 ½ tablespoons (13.5g) active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons (36g) brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon (6g) fine sea salt
For Boiling:
- Large pot of water
- ¼ cup (50g) brown sugar
For Topping:
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
✔ In a small bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar.
✔ Whisk and let sit for 10 minutes until frothy and bubbly—this means the yeast is activated.
2. Prepare the Dough
✔ In a large bowl, whisk together bread flour, remaining brown sugar, and salt.
✔ Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture.
✔ Stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until a rough dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough
✔ Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
✔ If too sticky, add a bit of flour; if too dry, sprinkle a few drops of water.
4. First Rise
✔ Shape dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat.
✔ Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for 1 hour (until doubled in size).
5. Shape the Bagels
✔ Punch down the dough to release air.
✔ Divide into 8 equal pieces and roll each into a ball.
✔ Poke a hole through the center with your thumb and gently stretch into a ring shape (about 1.5 inches wide).
6. Second Rise
✔ Place shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
✔ Cover with a damp cloth and rest for 15–20 minutes.
7. Boil the Bagels
✔ Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
✔ In a large pot, bring water to a boil and stir in ¼ cup brown sugar.
✔ Drop 2–3 bagels at a time into boiling water.
✔ Boil for 1 minute per side (for extra chewiness, boil 2 minutes per side).
8. Prepare for Baking
✔ Remove bagels with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheet.
✔ Brush tops with beaten egg wash for a shiny crust.
✔ Sprinkle with desired toppings while the egg wash is wet.
9. Bake the Bagels
✔ Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and firm.
✔ Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even baking.
✔ Transfer to a wire rack to cool before serving.
Tips for Perfect Bagels
✔ Use Bread Flour – Higher protein content creates a strong gluten structure for a chewy texture.
✔ Don’t Skip the Boil – Boiling sets the crust and gives bagels their signature texture.
✔ Enhance Flavor – Adding sugar or barley malt syrup to the boiling water deepens color and taste.
✔ Experiment with Toppings – Try garlic, onion flakes, coarse salt, or cheese for variety.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade bagels is a rewarding experience that results in fresh, chewy, and flavorful baked goods. Whether plain, topped with cream cheese, or used for sandwiches, these bagels will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Now, grab your ingredients and start baking the perfect bagel!
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