What You’ll Love About This Recipe
There’s something special about making bagels from scratch, and this recipe makes it easy and fun for everyone. You’ll get the perfect chewy texture, a golden crust, and the freedom to customize your favorite toppings. Plus, they’re fresher and tastier than anything from the store, giving you that warm, homemade feeling. And did I mention the bragging rights? You’ll feel like a pro baker in no time!
Recipe
Making homemade bagels is a rewarding process that allows you to enjoy fresh, chewy bagels right from your own kitchen. This recipe walks you through the steps to create classic bagels with a golden crust and soft interior.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add bread flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center to form a bagel shape.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Boil each bagel for 1-2 minutes per side, then transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- If desired, sprinkle with toppings. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Notes:
– Make certain the water for boiling is gently simmering, not boiling vigorously, to prevent the bagels from breaking apart.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large pot
Time (Prep time, Cooking time):
Prep time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
8 bagels
Nutrition
A single homemade bagel provides a good source of carbs and protein. Here is the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Calories | Carbs | Protein | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 289 | 56g | 10g | 1g | 2g | 5g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade bagels with different cream cheese flavors, like chive or strawberry, to keep things interesting. If I’m craving something savory, I’ll spread on hummus or avocado mash for extra richness. You can’t go wrong with these simple, tasty options that make every bite better.
Cream Cheese Varieties
When it comes to pairing cream cheese with bagels, I can’t help but get excited about all the delicious options out there. My go-to is classic plain cream cheese—simple, creamy, and perfect for letting the bagel shine. But I also love experimenting with flavored varieties, like chive and onion or strawberry. For a touch of sweetness, honey walnut cream cheese hits the spot every time. I’ve even tried whipped cream cheese for a lighter texture that spreads like a dream. Each variety adds its own unique twist, making every bite a new adventure. Cream cheese truly transforms a bagel into something special.
Savory Spread Options
While cream cheese is a classic, savory spreads can take your bagel experience to the next level. I love slathering mine with garlic herb butter—it’s rich, fragrant, and pairs perfectly with a toasted everything bagel. For something tangy, try whipped feta with a drizzle of honey and cracked black pepper. Avocado mash with chili flakes adds creaminess and a kick, while hummus topped with roasted red peppers brings Mediterranean flair. If you’re feeling adventurous, mix pesto with Greek yogurt for a fresh, herby spread. Each option elevates your bagel, making every bite unforgettable. Experiment and find your favorite!
