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A the better bagel sandwich with grilled chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, and garlic aioli, placed on parchment paper under natural light.

The Better Bagel: A Game-Changer in Healthy Eating


  • Author: Emma Boatman
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 bagels 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Homemade bagels are soft on the inside, chewy on the outside, and packed with flavor. “The Better Bagel” is a step up from store-bought options, made with simple ingredients and a traditional boiling method for that perfect texture. Enjoy them plain, with cream cheese, or as a breakfast sandwich!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 3 ½ cups bread flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 ½ tsp salt

For Boiling & Topping:

  • 8 cups water
  • 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour and salt, then mix until a dough forms.

Step 2: Knead & Rise

Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

 

Step 3: Shape the Bagels

Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center and stretch it to form a bagel shape.

Step 4: Boil the Bagels

Bring 8 cups of water to a boil and add honey. Boil each bagel for 30-60 seconds per side, then drain on a towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Add Toppings & Bake

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush each bagel with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning if desired.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and firm. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Tips & Notes:

  • Chewier bagels: Boil for 60 seconds per side.
  • Softer bagels: Boil for only 30 seconds per side.
  • Customize flavors: Add cinnamon & raisins, garlic, or cheese for unique bagels.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snack
  • Method: Boiling & Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Jewish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8 bagels
  • Calories: 250 per bagel
  • Sugar: ~4g per bagel
  • Fat: 2g per bagel
  • Carbohydrates: ~50g per bagel

Keywords: Homemade bagels, chewy bagels, easy bagel recipe, breakfast bread