Bagel

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home, and with this homemade bagel recipe, you can recreate that enticing smell in your own kitchen. These bagels are soft on the inside, with a chewy crust that will have you savoring every bite. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast with cream cheese or as a sandwich for lunch, these homemade bagels are sure to become a staple in your household. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking!

Bagel

Ingredients:
– 4 cups bread flour
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 ½ cups warm water
– 1 ½ teaspoons salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Add the bread flour and salt to the bowl. Mix everything together until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
7. Flatten each ball slightly and poke a hole in the center with your finger. Gently stretch the hole to form a bagel shape.
8. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the honey to the boiling water.
9. Boil the bagels, 2-3 at a time, for about 1 minute on each side. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
10. If desired, sprinkle your chosen toppings onto the bagels while they are still wet from boiling.
11. Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown.
12. Allow the bagels to cool on a wire rack before slicing and enjoying them with your favorite spreads or fillings.

Homemade bagels are a delightful indulgence that can elevate your breakfast or lunch routine. The process of making bagels from scratch may seem intimidating at first, but with a little practice, you’ll soon master the art of creating these delicious treats in your own kitchen. Experiment with different toppings and fillings to customize your bagels to your liking. So why not set aside a weekend morning to bake a batch of fresh bagels and treat yourself to a taste of home-baked goodness? Your efforts will be rewarded with flavorful, soft, and chewy bagels that are bound to impress your family and friends.