There’s something undeniably magical about biting into a warm, chewy bagel fresh from the oven. The aroma wafting through your kitchen, the satisfying crunch of the crust, and the flavorful toppings all come together to create a breakfast experience that’s hard to beat. Today, we’re diving into the world of homemade bagels with a recipe for Homemade Everything Bagels that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With a delightful combination of seasonings and a simple method, you’ll wonder why you ever bought bagels from the store.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
Homemade Everything Bagels are not just a treat for your taste buds; they are a fun project that can bring the whole family together. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, lunch, or a late-night snack, these bagels are incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite toppings, and once you master the technique, you’ll find yourself making them again and again. Plus, there’s a certain satisfaction that comes from creating something from scratch, especially when it’s as delicious as these bagels!
What We’re Using
To make these Homemade Everything Bagels, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast – This helps our bagels rise beautifully.
- 1 cup water PLUS 2 tbsp, room temperature – Essential for activating the yeast.
- 1 cup high-gluten flour or bread flour – Gives the bagels that perfect chewy texture.
- 1 cup high-gluten flour PLUS 1 to 3 tablespoons – For adjusting the dough’s consistency.
- 1 tablespoon diastatic malt powder – Enhances the flavor and browning of the bagels.
- 1 tablespoon sugar – A touch of sweetness to balance flavors.
- 1 tablespoon salt – For seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper – A hint of spice.
- 4 teaspoons white sesame seeds – For that classic bagel crunch.
- 2 teaspoons black sesame seeds – Adds color and flavor.
- 2 teaspoons poppy seeds – A traditional topping.
- 2 teaspoons dried minced garlic – For an aromatic kick.
- 2 teaspoons dried minced onion – Adds depth to the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt – To sprinkle on top.
- Cooking spray – For greasing the baking sheet.
- 2 tablespoons molasses – Adds a rich flavor and color.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps in the boiling process.
- 2 egg whites – For a shiny finish.
- 1 teaspoon water – To mix with egg whites.
- 1 cup Everything bagel seasoning – For the ultimate flavor explosion.
Tools of the Trade
Before we get started, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:
- Mixing bowl – For combining your dough ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key!
- Wooden spoon – For mixing the dough.
- Kitchen scale (optional) – For precise measuring of flour.
- Baking sheet – Where your bagels will bake.
- Parchment paper – To line the baking sheet.
- Large pot – For boiling the bagels.
- Slotted spoon – To remove bagels from the boiling water.
- Pastry brush – For applying the egg wash.
The Method for Homemade Everything Bagels
Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Homemade Everything Bagels:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water (1 cup plus 2 tablespoons) and instant yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. This means the yeast is active and ready to work its magic!
Step 2: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Add the high-gluten flour (1 cup), diastatic malt powder, sugar, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. If your dough is too sticky, gradually add the additional high-gluten flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook if you prefer!
Step 4: Let It Rise
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap 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 the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then poke a hole through the center with your finger, gently stretching it to form a bagel shape.
Step 6: Boil the Bagels
In a large pot, bring water to a gentle boil and add the baking soda and molasses. Carefully drop the bagels into the boiling water, cooking them for about 1-2 minutes on each side. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 7: Add the Toppings
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg whites and water. Brush this mixture over the boiled bagels and generously sprinkle the Everything bagel seasoning on top.
Step 8: Bake the Bagels
Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Allow them to cool on a wire rack before enjoying!
Allergy-Friendly Swaps
If you’re looking to make some adjustments, here are a few suggestions:
- Use gluten-free flour to cater to gluten sensitivities.
- Replace the sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative for a low-glycemic option.
- Skip the egg wash and use a plant-based milk for a vegan option.
Chef’s Rationale
Creating Homemade Everything Bagels allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and flavor. The use of high-gluten flour promotes that iconic chewy texture we all love in a bagel. The boiling step is crucial, as it helps to develop the bagel’s crust, resulting in a perfect balance of chewiness on the inside and a crispy exterior. Plus, the toppings are entirely customizable—feel free to experiment with your favorite spices and seeds!
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your bagels fresh, consider the following tips:
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze any leftover bagels by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, pop them in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds until warm.
Popular Questions
Can I use regular all-purpose flour?
While you can use all-purpose flour, high-gluten or bread flour yields the best texture and chewiness associated with traditional bagels.
Why do we boil bagels?
Boiling bagels before baking helps create a dense, chewy interior and a shiny, crisp crust. It’s a key step in bagel-making!
How do I customize my bagel toppings?
You can mix and match spices, seeds, and even cheeses to create your own unique flavor combinations. Get creative!
Can I make bagel sandwiches with these?
Absolutely! These bagels make for delicious sandwiches, whether filled with cream cheese, lox, or your favorite sandwich fillings.
If you love these bagels, you might also enjoy trying out these delicious recipes:
Wrap-Up
Making Homemade Everything Bagels is an enjoyable and rewarding culinary adventure. With a little time and effort, you can create bagels that rival those from your favorite bakery. The process is straightforward, and the results are undeniably delicious. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress with your homemade creations. Happy baking!
Homemade Everything Bagels
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water (1 cup plus 2 tablespoons) and instant yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add the high-gluten flour (1 cup), diastatic malt powder, sugar, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then poke a hole through the center with your finger.
- In a large pot, bring water to a gentle boil and add the baking soda and molasses. Carefully drop the bagels into the boiling water, cooking them for about 1-2 minutes on each side.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg whites and water. Brush this mixture over the boiled bagels and sprinkle the Everything bagel seasoning on top.
- Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Allow them to cool on a wire rack before enjoying!
Notes
- Store bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze leftover bagels tightly wrapped in plastic for up to 3 months.
- Reheat bagels in the toaster or microwave until warm.
