Homemade Bagels
There’s something undeniably satisfying about making your own bagels at home. The process may seem a bit daunting at first, but with the right recipe and some patience, you will be rewarded with golden-brown, chewy bagels that are far superior to anything you can buy at the store. Whether you prefer them plain, topped with seeds, or slathered with cream cheese, these homemade bagels will elevate your breakfast game. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!
Why I Love This Recipe
This homemade bagel recipe is a staple in my kitchen because it combines simplicity with fantastic results. The dough is incredibly forgiving, allowing for a bit of experimentation. Plus, the ingredients are straightforward and accessible, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever the craving strikes. The smell of freshly baked bagels wafting through your home is an added bonus that can’t be beaten!
What Goes In
To make these delightful bagels, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted – Adds richness and flavor to the dough.
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast – The key to that perfect rise.
- 2 cups tepid water – Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour.
- 2 tablespoons sugar – Feeds the yeast and enhances the bagels’ flavor.
- 3 tablespoons shortening – Provides tenderness and moisture.
- 1 tablespoon salt – Essential for flavor and controlling yeast activity.
- 5 cups bread flour or unbleached all-purpose flour – The backbone of our bagels, creating that chewy texture. (You may add another ½ cup if needed.)
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before diving into the bagel-making adventure, gather the following kitchen gear:
- Mixing bowl – For combining ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key in baking.
- Wooden spoon or dough hook – For mixing the dough thoroughly.
- Clean surface or countertop – For kneading the dough.
- Large pot – For boiling the bagels.
- Baking sheet – To hold the bagels while they bake.
- Parchment paper – To prevent sticking while baking.
- Cooling rack – For cooling the bagels after baking.
Homemade Bagels in Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, tepid water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Once the yeast mixture is bubbly, add the shortening, salt, and 5 cups of flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it comes together.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. You may need to add a bit more flour if the dough is sticky.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Bagels
Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then use your finger to poke a hole in the center, stretching it to form a bagel shape.
Step 6: Second Rise
Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them with a cloth and let them rest for about 30 minutes while you prepare the boiling water.
Step 7: Boil the Bagels
Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil. Carefully drop in a few bagels at a time, boiling them for about 1-2 minutes on each side. This step is crucial for developing that chewy crust.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once boiled, place the bagels back on the baking sheet. You can sprinkle them with your favorite toppings at this stage—think sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are a deep golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Slice, toast, and enjoy with your favorite spreads!
Dietary Customizations
If you’re looking to customize your bagels, here are some options:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the bread flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Vegan: Replace the butter and shortening with coconut oil or a vegan margarine.
- Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat flour for a heartier bagel.
- Flavor Variations: Add herbs, spices, or cheese directly into the dough for unique flavors.
Mistakes That Ruin Homemade Bagels
Making bagels can be an art form, and there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:
- Using cold water: Tepid water is essential for activating the yeast properly.
- Not kneading enough: Insufficient kneading can result in a dense bagel. Aim for that smooth, elastic texture.
- Over or under-boiling: This step is critical for texture; too long can make them tough, too short can make them fluffy.
- Skipping the second rise: This step allows the bagels to develop flavor and texture. Don’t rush it!
Save for Later: Storage Tips
Once your bagels are baked, you’ll want to ensure they stay fresh:
Store the bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. They can be reheated in the oven or toaster directly from the freezer for a quick breakfast treat.
Quick Q&A
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can use unbleached all-purpose flour, but bread flour will yield a chewier texture due to its higher protein content.
How do I know when my yeast is active?
When your yeast mixture becomes foamy and bubbly after combining it with warm water and sugar, it indicates that your yeast is active and ready to use.
Can I add toppings to the bagels before baking?
Absolutely! After boiling, you can sprinkle your desired toppings on top before placing them in the oven.
What’s the best way to reheat bagels?
The best way to reheat bagels is to toast them directly from the freezer or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Save & Share
If you enjoyed this homemade bagel recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family! Making bagels is a fun weekend project that can bring everyone together. You can also save this recipe for later so you can make it again and again!
There’s something magical about the process of making homemade bagels. From mixing the dough to boiling and baking, every step is a labor of love that culminates in a deliciously satisfying result. With this recipe, you’ll have everything you need to create your own batch of homemade bagels that are sure to impress. Happy bagel-making!
Homemade Bagels
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, tepid water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Once the yeast mixture is bubbly, add the shortening, salt, and 5 cups of flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
- Once risen, punch down the dough, divide it into 12 equal pieces, and shape each into a bagel.
- Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them rest for about 30 minutes.
- Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil. Boil the bagels for about 1-2 minutes on each side.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the boiled bagels on the baking sheet and sprinkle with toppings if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are a deep golden brown.
- Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
Notes
- Store bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, wrap in plastic and freeze.
- Reheat directly from the freezer in the oven or toaster.
