Are you a fan of that delightful chewy texture and slightly crispy crust of fresh bagels? If so, you’re in luck! Today, we’re sharing a straightforward yet absolutely delicious recipe for homemade bagels. Once you’ve tried making your own, you may never go back to store-bought. These bagels are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a snack any time of day. Let’s get baking with this step-by-step guide on how to make mouthwatering bagels at home.
**How To Make Bagels: Easy Chewy Bagel Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 cups bread flour
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 ½ teaspoons salt
– 1 ½ cups warm water
– 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg white, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
– Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning
**Instructions:**
1. **Activate the Yeast:** In a small bowl, mix the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture, give it a gentle stir, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Mix everything together until a shaggy dough forms.
3. **Knead the Dough:** Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Shape it into a ball.
4. **First Rise:** Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. **Divide and Shape:** Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball. To form the bagels, poke your thumbs through the center of each ball and gently stretch the hole to about 1 ½ inches in diameter. Place the shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet.
7. **Second Rise:** Cover the shaped bagels with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes.
8. **Boil the Bagels:** In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Carefully lower each bagel into the boiling water and boil for about 1 minute per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and place them back on the baking sheet.
9. **Egg Wash and Toppings:** Brush the boiled bagels with the egg white wash and sprinkle your desired toppings on top.
10. **Bake:** Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
These homemade bagels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven with your favorite spreads like cream cheese, smoked salmon, or avocado. They also freeze well, so feel free to make a batch and save some for later. Get creative with your toppings and flavors to make these bagels truly your own. Invite friends and family over for a bagel brunch and impress them with your baking skills. We hope you enjoy making and savoring these delicious homemade bagels!
