Homemade Bagels
There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma wafting through your kitchen when baking homemade bagels. Freshly baked bagels with their golden brown exterior, chewy texture, and delightful toppings can transform any meal into something extraordinary. Whether enjoyed during cozy mornings with a hot cup of coffee or shared among family and friends at a weekend brunch, these bagels are sure to delight every palate. Let’s dive into the addictive allure of making bagels from scratch!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
 - Cook Time: 25 minutes
 - Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
 - Servings: 8 bagels
 - Difficulty Level: Medium
 
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 230
 - Protein: 9g
 - Carbohydrates: 45g
 - Fat: 1g
 - Fiber: 2g
 
Why Make This Recipe
Homemade bagels are a fantastic way to enjoy the goodness of freshly baked bread without the need for a bakery run. The process of kneading the dough and watching it rise is therapeutic, and there’s nothing quite like biting into a warm bagel, still slightly chewy on the inside and crispy on the outside. It’s simply satisfying! These bagels can be tailored to your preferences, and the aroma as they bake fills your home with a cozy warmth, creating the perfect backdrop for any gathering or morning routine.
How to Make Homemade Bagels
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water
 - 2 tablespoons sugar
 - 1 packet active dry yeast
 - 5 cups all-purpose flour
 - 2 teaspoons salt
 - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
 - 1 tablespoon malt syrup (optional)
 - Toppings (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or coarse salt, optional)
 
Optional Ingredients and Substitutions
- Nuts or Seeds: Add chopped nuts or seeds inside the dough for extra flavor.
 - Alternative Flours: You can experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
 
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
 - Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture, and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.
 - Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
 - Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
 - Punch down the dough and divide it into equal pieces (about 8).
 - Roll each piece into a ball and poke a hole in the center to form a bagel shape.
 - Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add malt syrup if using. Boil the bagels for 1-2 minutes on each side, then remove and place on a greased baking sheet.
 - If desired, sprinkle toppings on each bagel.
 - Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
 - Let them cool before serving.
 
Baking Tips
- Don’t overmix the dough; it should be smooth and elastic but not overly sticky.
 - To test for doneness, tap the bottom of the bagel; it should sound hollow.
 - Use a slotted spoon for boiling to easily remove bagels from water.
 
How to Serve
Enjoy your bagels plain, with a generous spread of cream cheese, or toasted with butter and a drizzle of honey. Pair them with fresh fruit and a hot cup of tea or coffee for the perfect morning feast.
How to Store
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
 - Refrigerator: Keep in a tightly sealed bag for up to 1 week.
 - Freezer: Freeze in individual bags for up to 3 months. Just pop them into the toaster or oven when you’re ready to enjoy.
 
Expert Tips
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for better results.
 - Experiment with different toppings like everything bagel seasoning or dried herbs for added flavor.
 
Delicious Variations
- Vegan Version: Substitute vegetable oil with any plant-based oil and use a non-dairy yogurt with your choice of toppings.
 - Cinnamon Swirl: Add cinnamon and a sugar mixture to the dough for a sweet twist.
 - Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free bagel blend; the texture may vary slightly.
 
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits?
- While this recipe does not include fruits, you could serve your bagels with fresh fruits or fruit spreads.
 
Why is it dry/dense?
- If your bagels turn out dry, ensure you measure your flour correctly and do not add extra during kneading.
 
What can I do with leftovers?
- Leftover bagels can be toasted and used for sandwiches or made into bagel chips.
 
Can I use frozen ingredients?
- Yes! If you have frozen bagels, you can thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat them for a fresh taste.
 
Conclusion
Homemade bagels are a delightful project that brings joy to your kitchen and fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma. They are perfect for special occasions, family brunches, or simply treating yourself on a relaxing morning. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your thoughts or your variations! Let’s bring the bakery experience home, one bagel at a time!
Print
		Homemade Bagels
- Total Time: 40 minutes
 - Yield: 8 bagels 1x
 - Diet: Vegetarian
 
Description
Delicious homemade bagels with a golden brown exterior and chewy texture, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 2 cups warm water
 - 2 tablespoons sugar
 - 1 packet active dry yeast
 - 5 cups all-purpose flour
 - 2 teaspoons salt
 - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
 - 1 tablespoon malt syrup (optional)
 - Toppings (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or coarse salt, optional)
 
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
 - Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture, and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.
 - Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
 - Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
 - Punch down the dough and divide it into equal pieces (about 8).
 - Roll each piece into a ball and poke a hole in the center to form a bagel shape.
 - Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add malt syrup if using. Boil the bagels for 1-2 minutes on each side, then remove and place on a greased baking sheet.
 - If desired, sprinkle toppings on each bagel.
 - Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
 - Let them cool before serving.
 
Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
 - Cook Time: 25 minutes
 - Category: Bread
 - Method: Baking
 - Cuisine: American
 
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
 - Calories: 230
 - Sugar: 2g
 - Sodium: 400mg
 - Fat: 1g
 - Saturated Fat: 0g
 - Unsaturated Fat: 0g
 - Trans Fat: 0g
 - Carbohydrates: 45g
 - Fiber: 2g
 - Protein: 9g
 - Cholesterol: 0mg
 




