There’s something comforting and nostalgic about biting into a chewy, golden New York-style bagel still warm from the oven. Whether slathered with cream cheese, stacked into a breakfast sandwich, or enjoyed plain with a cup of coffee, bagels have carved out a permanent spot in our morning routines. But did you know you can make these bakery favorites right in your own kitchen? This guide walks you through the best bagel recipe for creating authentic, home made bagels recipes using simple pantry staples and straightforward techniques. This is your go-to for how to make bagels homemade with that perfect shiny crust and chewy interior.
New York-Style Bagels
Prep Time 30 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Rise Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins
Total Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins
Course Breakfast, Brunch, Snack
Cuisine American, European
Mixing bowl Any large mixing bowl will do for combining and kneading.
Stand mixer (optional) Speeds up the kneading process but isn't necessary.
Dough hook (if using a stand mixer)
Bench scraper or knife For dividing dough evenly.
Baking sheet Preferably lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Slotted spoon For removing bagels from the boiling water.
Cooling rack Keeps the bottoms from getting soggy.
Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap To cover the dough as it rests.
For the Dough
- 4 cups bread flour plus more for kneading
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp instant or active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water about 110°F
For Boiling
- 2 quarts water
- 2 tbsp honey or barley malt syrup for flavor and shine
For Topping
- 1 egg for egg wash
- Assorted bagels toppings sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onion, garlic flakes, sea salt, or everything bagel seasoning
Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, mix warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready to leaven your dough.
Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), combine bread flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead for 10 minutes by hand on a lightly floured surface, or 6 minutes with a stand mixer on medium using a dough hook. The dough should be stiff but elastic.
First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Bagels
Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball. Poke your thumb through the center of each ball and gently stretch into a ring shape, about 1.5 to 2 inches wide in the center.
Let shaped bagels rest for 10 minutes while you bring water to a boil.
Boil the Bagels
Preheat your oven to 425°F.
In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water and the honey (or barley malt syrup) to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and carefully drop in the bagels, 2-3 at a time. Boil for 1 minute on each side, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Add Toppings and Bake
Brush each bagel with beaten egg for a glossy finish, then sprinkle on your favorite bagels toppings. If you’re aiming for a classic everything bagel recipe, now’s the time to pile on that seasoning.
Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Pairings to Elevate Your Bagel Game
Bagels aren’t just breakfast fare — they can be the base for creative meals and snacks all day long. Here are some delicious ideas to pair with your homemade bagels:
- Bagel Recipe Sandwich: Slice a bagel and layer it with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and avocado for a power breakfast sandwich.
- Healthy Bagel Toppers: Go lighter with low-fat cream cheese, sliced cucumber, and smoked salmon.
- Greek Yogurt Bagels with Fruit: For a protein-packed twist, swap part of the flour with Greek yogurt and top your bagel with berries and a drizzle of honey.
- Sweet Tooth Fix: Try cinnamon sugar topping with a spread of apple butter or peanut butter.
- Lunch Delight: Turn a plain bagel into a mini pizza with marinara, mozzarella, and your favorite veggies.
FAQs
1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, but bread flour gives that signature chewy texture. If you use all-purpose flour, your bagels might be a bit softer and less chewy, but still tasty.
2. What's the best type of yeast to use?
Instant or active dry yeast both work well in this bagel recipe. Just make sure it’s fresh and properly activated if you’re using active dry.
3. Do I have to boil the bagels?
Yes! Boiling is crucial in home made bagels recipes. It sets the crust and gives the bagels their signature chewy exterior. Skipping this step would result in a roll, not a bagel.
4. How can I make bagels healthy?
Try using whole wheat flour for half the amount of bread flour, reduce the salt slightly, or incorporate Greek yogurt into the dough for added protein.
5. Can I freeze the bagels?
Absolutely. Once baked and cooled, slice the bagels and freeze them in an airtight bag. Toast straight from frozen for a quick breakfast.
