Easy Homemade Bagels

Soft and chewy on the inside with a light golden brown outside, these Easy Homemade Bagels are a delightful treat! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, you can enjoy them plain or topped with everything bagel seasoning. Toasted and spread with your favorite cream cheese, they will elevate your morning routine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses basic items you likely have at home.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your bagels with various toppings like seeds or herbs.
• Freshly Baked Goodness: Enjoy the aroma of freshly baked bagels right from your oven.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a breakfast gathering or a cozy weekend treat, these bagels fit the bill.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a batch and freeze for quick breakfasts on busy mornings.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your Easy Homemade Bagels, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Danish dough hook (or hands)
• Bench scraper (or sharp knife)
• Baking sheet
• Silicone baking mat or parchment paper
• Large pot
• Fine mesh strainer or flat slotted spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients and kneading dough.
• Bench scraper: Helps cut dough easily into equal portions without mess.
• Silicone baking mat: Prevents sticking and ensures even baking.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 1/3 cups Warm Water (between 90ºF-110ºF)
• 2 1/4 tsp Instant Quick Rise Yeast (1 packet)
• 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar
• 3 1/2 cups Bread Flour
• 1 1/2 tsp Salt

For Boiling

• 6-8 cups Boiling Water
• 1 tbsp Baking Soda
• 1 tbsp Honey

For Topping

• 1 Large Egg
• 1 tbsp Water
• Everything Bagel Seasoning

How to Make Easy Homemade Bagels

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the warm water, instant yeast, and granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Add in the bread flour and salt. Using a danish dough hook or your hands, mix until the dough forms. It should be thick and look dry. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until soft and smooth.

Step 3: Let it Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rest for 60-90 minutes in a warm spot until doubled in size.

Step 4: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 425ºF and prepare a baking sheet lined with silicone or parchment paper lightly sprayed to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Cut Dough Portions

Using a bench scraper or knife, cut the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball on an unfloured surface and create a hole in each using your thumb and pointer finger.

Step 6: Rest the Bagels

Let the formed bagels rest for about 10 minutes while you prepare the boiling bath.

Step 7: Prepare Boiling Bath

In a large pot, bring water to boil. Add in baking soda and honey once boiling starts.

Step 8: Boil Bagels

Boil each bagel in batches of 3-4 for no more than one minute per side. They will puff up slightly but will smooth out during baking.

Step 9: Drain Excess Liquid

Remove each bagel using a fine mesh strainer or slotted spatula, allowing excess liquid to drip off before placing back on the baking sheet.

Step 10: Egg Wash & Seasoning

Brush each bagel with egg wash made from mixing egg with water. Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning if desired.

Step 11: Bake Bagels

Bake in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until shiny and golden brown. Let cool on a wire rack for about five minutes before serving.

Step 12: Storage Tips

Store homemade bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze them wrapped tightly to enjoy later. To reheat, thaw overnight at room temperature, then toast before serving.

Enjoy making these Easy Homemade Bagels! They’re sure to become a favorite in your household!

How to Serve Easy Homemade Bagels

These Easy Homemade Bagels are as versatile as they are delicious. Whether you’re hosting brunch or enjoying a quiet breakfast at home, there are countless ways to serve them.

Classic Cream Cheese Spread

• Use smooth, whipped cream cheese for a light and fluffy texture. Add herbs or spices for extra flavor.

Avocado Toast

• Mash ripe avocado on a toasted bagel and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and chili flakes for a nutritious topping.

Smoked Salmon Delight

• Layer smoked salmon, capers, and red onion slices on your bagel for a savory and satisfying meal.

Egg and Cheese Sandwich

• Fry an egg and melt some cheese on top of a toasted bagel for a hearty breakfast option.

Nut Butter Bliss

• Spread almond or peanut butter on your bagel and top with banana slices for a sweet treat.

Seasonal Fruit Topping

• Add slices of seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches with a drizzle of honey for a refreshing twist.

How to Perfect Easy Homemade Bagels

Making the perfect bagel requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve that ideal texture and flavor.

• Use the Right Flour: Opt for bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. Bread flour has higher protein content, giving your bagels the perfect chewiness.

• Knead Thoroughly: Make sure to knead the dough until it’s smooth. This develops gluten, which is essential for that chewy texture.

• Don’t Skip the Boiling Step: Boiling the bagels in water with baking soda creates that signature shiny crust. It’s crucial for authentic bagel texture.

• Experiment with Toppings: Aside from everything seasoning, try sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even cinnamon sugar for different flavors.

• Cool Before Storing: Allow your bagels to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This helps retain their freshness longer.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Homemade Bagels

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Homemade Bagels can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the dense bagel.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy and crunchy side.
3. Vegetable Soup: A warm vegetable soup complements the chewy texture of the bagel beautifully.
4. Potato Hash: Crispy potato hash with peppers and onions makes an indulgent side dish that’s hard to resist.
5. Salad Greens: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette provides balance.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add depth to your meal while keeping it healthy.
7. Cheese Platter: Offer various cheeses alongside your bagels for an elegant touch.
8. Pickles: A selection of pickles adds crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making bagels at home can be simple, but small errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold water: Starting with cold water can hinder yeast activation. Always ensure your water is warm, ideally between 90ºF-110ºF.

• Skipping the kneading step: Not kneading enough can lead to dense bagels. Knead the dough until it is soft and smooth to achieve that perfect chewy texture.

• Not boiling long enough: Failing to boil the bagels long enough can result in a tough outer layer. Aim for about 1 minute per side in the baking soda honey bath.

• Neglecting resting time: Rushing through proving time will affect your bagels’ rise. Allow the dough to rest properly for a fluffy interior.

• Overcrowding the pot: Placing too many bagels in the boiling water at once can lead to uneven cooking. Boil only a few at a time for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your bagels in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for 1-2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Homemade Bagels

• Allow bagels to cool completely before wrapping.
• Use plastic wrap and place them in a sealed container or Ziploc bag.
• Frozen bagels remain good for up to 1 month.

Reheating Easy Homemade Bagels

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals (15-20 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop: Toast on medium heat until golden brown and warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Easy Homemade Bagels from scratch?

To make Easy Homemade Bagels, you’ll need warm water, yeast, sugar, bread flour, salt, and other ingredients detailed in the recipe above. Follow each step carefully for best results.

Can I customize my Easy Homemade Bagels?

Absolutely! You can add toppings like sesame seeds or poppy seeds before baking or mix herbs into the dough for unique flavors.

How do I store Easy Homemade Bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 days or freeze them wrapped securely for up to one month.

What should I do if my bagel dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels too sticky while mixing, gradually add more flour until it reaches a manageable consistency without overdoing it.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour; however, note that this may alter the texture slightly. You might need more liquid as well.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Homemade Bagels are not only delightful but also versatile. Whether enjoyed plain or topped with everything seasoning, they offer a satisfying breakfast option. Feel free to customize them with various toppings or fillings based on your taste preferences!