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
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