Freshly Baked Homemade Bagels

Homemade Bagels are soft on the inside with a perfectly golden, slightly crispy crust on the outside. Whether you prefer them with classic cream cheese or with a luxurious topping of smoked salmon, these bagels are sure to elevate your breakfast or brunch. With just a few simple ingredients and some time to rise and bake, you’ll have warm, freshly made bagels that taste miles better than store-bought ones!

What Are Bagels?

Bagels are round, chewy breads with a hole in the middle, traditionally boiled before baking to give them their characteristic dense texture and golden crust. Originating from Jewish communities in Poland, bagels have become a beloved staple in many cultures. They're perfect for slathering with spreads like cream cheese, or filling with savory ingredients like smoked salmon. These homemade bagels are just as delicious as the classic, and you can easily customize them to your liking!

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Freshly baked—there’s nothing like the aroma of homemade bagels filling your kitchen.
• Customizable—top with your favorite spreads, smoked salmon, or even sweet toppings.
• Easy to make—with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this is a great recipe for both beginners and experienced bakers.
• Perfect for breakfast or brunch—ideal for a special morning or a cozy gathering.

Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Bagels

1. Let the dough rise properly: Bagels need time to rise, so be patient. This will result in the perfect texture.
2. Boiling is key: The boiling step before baking is what gives bagels their signature chewiness. Make sure the water is gently simmering, not boiling vigorously.
3. Shape evenly: Make sure the bagel shapes are uniform to ensure even baking. Don't worry if they aren’t perfectly round—they’ll still taste amazing.
4. Don’t skip the honey in the water: The honey gives the bagels a beautiful golden color and adds a subtle sweetness to the crust.
5. Sprinkle toppings generously: Whether you go with sesame seeds or poppy seeds, ensure your bagels are well-coated before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?

Yes, you can! Whole wheat flour will give your bagels a heartier texture and flavor. If using whole wheat, you might need to add a little extra water, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

How Can I Make My Bagels Extra Chewy?

For an even chewier bagel, try adding a bit more butter or oil to the dough. The boiling step also contributes to the chewy texture, so don’t skip it!

Can I Add Other Toppings to My Bagels?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with toppings like poppy seeds, garlic, onion, or even everything bagel seasoning. You can also mix in dried herbs or cheese for a savory twist.

Can I Add Different Flavors to the Bagel Dough?

Yes! You can customize the bagel dough by adding ingredients like garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs such as rosemary and thyme. You can also incorporate shredded cheese or seeds directly into the dough before shaping.

How Can I Make My Bagels More Chewy?

To make your bagels extra chewy, make sure to boil them for the full minute on each side before baking. The longer the bagels are boiled, the chewier the crust will be. Additionally, using high-protein bread flour instead of all-purpose flour will enhance the chewy texture.

How to Freeze

For long-term storage, freeze bagels once they’ve cooled completely. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.

To reheat, simply bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or toast them directly from the freezer for a warm, crispy result.

How to Store

Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them (as mentioned above) and reheating when needed.

How To Make Homemade Bagels

In a bowl, mix lukewarm water with honey and dry yeast. Add the flour, butter, and salt, and stir until well combined.

Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rise for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

After the dough has risen, divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then poke a hole in the center of each ball to form the bagel shape. Let the bagels rise for another 30-40 minutes.

In a large pot, bring water to a gentle simmer. Add 2 teaspoons of honey to the water. Carefully place the bagels in the water, a few at a time, and let them boil for about 1 minute on each side.

After boiling, transfer the bagels to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and bake at 390°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Let the bagels cool slightly before serving with cream cheese and smoked salmon for a delicious breakfast or brunch treat.