Bagel Recipe

Homemade bagels are a delicious treat that can be customized with your favorite toppings and enjoyed fresh from the oven. This recipe guides you through the process of making classic New York-style bagels, perfect for breakfast or anytime you crave a chewy, flavorful bread.

Ingredients

• 4 cups bread flour (plus extra for kneading)
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 1/4 cups warm water
• Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning, etc.

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water while stirring with a wooden spoon or dough hook attachment of a stand mixer, until a dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead the dough in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 8-10 minutes on medium speed.
2. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Bagels

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
2. Working with one piece at a time, shape each into a ball. Flatten the ball slightly, then poke a hole in the center with your thumb. Stretch and shape the dough to form a ring with a hole about 1-2 inches wide. Repeat with the remaining dough pieces.

Step 4: Boil the Bagels

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bring a large pot of water to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer.
2. Carefully place 2-3 bagels at a time into the simmering water. Boil for about 1-2 minutes per side, flipping once. The longer you boil, the chewier the bagel will be.
3. Remove the bagels with a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake

1. Brush the boiled bagels with egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water) and sprinkle with your favorite toppings, such as sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown and cooked through. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for even browning.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

1. Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
2. Enjoy your homemade bagels plain, toasted, or with your favorite spreads like cream cheese or butter.

Tips for Perfect Bagels

• Boiling Time: Adjust the boiling time for your desired texture—shorter for softer bagels, longer for chewier ones.
• Variations: Customize your bagels by adding flavors like cinnamon and raisins to the dough, or experiment with different toppings.
• Storage: Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Conclusion

With this homemade bagel recipe, you can create bakery-quality bagels right in your own kitchen. Enjoy the satisfaction of biting into a freshly baked, chewy bagel with your favorite toppings. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave a delicious treat!