How do I master the art of homemade bagels?

Skip the bakery queue with our homemade bagel recipe! Achieve that perfect chewy texture and customize your creations with various toppings.

You'll need

Items needed to answer the question, How do I master the art of homemade bagels. Items include: Bread Flour Instant Yeast Sugar Salt Water Baking Soda

Bread Flour 4 cups
Instant Yeast 2 teaspoons
Sugar 2 tablespoons
Salt 2 teaspoons
Water Enough for boiling
Baking Soda 1 tablespoon

Take note
Beware: Once you've mastered this homemade bagel recipe, there's no going back to store-bought bagels. They just won't compare anymore!

1

Mixing the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of bread flour, 2 teaspoons of instant yeast, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of salt. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.

2

Kneading like a Pro

Dump your mixture onto a clean and lightly floured surface. Start kneading the dough, pressing it away with the heel of your hand, then fold it back over itself. Repeat this process for about 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Don't be afraid to show that dough who's boss!

3

Let It Rest

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest in a warm spot for about 1 hour. During this time, the dough will rise and double in size. That's some serious growth!

4

Shape It Up

Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Divide it into 8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a smooth ball. Then, using your index finger, poke a hole through the center of each ball and stretch it out to form a bagel shape. Practice your bagel twirling skills if you're feeling fancy!

5

The Boiling Bath

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 tablespoon of baking soda to the boiling water. Carefully drop 2 or 3 bagels into the pot and let them boil for 1 minute on each side. This boiling step gives bagels their distinctive chewiness. Repeat with the remaining bagels.

6

Toppings Galore

Now it's time to get creative with your bagel toppings. Whether you prefer everything bagels, sesame seeds, or just a plain classic, choose your favorites! Sprinkle your chosen toppings over the boiled bagels and gently press them down to make sure they stick.

7

Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the topped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them for 15-20 minutes until they turn golden brown. Your kitchen will smell like pure bagel heaven!

8

Enjoy the Fruits of Your Labor

Let the bagels cool for a few minutes, then slice them open and slather on your favorite spreads. Cream cheese, butter, or even avocado - the choice is yours! Enjoy your homemade bagels and revel in your bagel mastery!