By admin Forget overpriced, lukewarm bodega bagels. This weekend, ditch the takeout and unleash your inner baker with this easy-to-follow bagel recipe. Trust us, homemade bagels are a game-changer. Not only are they cheaper than store-bought, but they’re also infinitely more customizable. Craving everything bagel spice? Garlic knots? Poppy seed perfection? The possibilities are endless. Plus, impressing your friends with fresh, warm bagels straight from the oven? Major flex. So grab your aprons, fellow millennials, and let’s get baking!
Ingredients:
- 3 ½ cups bread flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 tablespoons malt syrup (optional, for richer flavor)
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 8 cups water
- Toppings: Get creative!
- Everything Bagel Seasoning (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, onion flakes, garlic powder, salt)
- Caramelized Onions
- Fresh Herbs (rosemary, thyme, chives)
- Cheese (shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan)
Instructions:
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
- Dough Time: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and malt syrup (if using). Stir to combine, then knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Rise Up: Lightly oil a large bowl. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat with oil. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape Up: Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball.
- Poke a hole in the center of each ball with your finger.
- Gently widen the hole to form a bagel shape.
- Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Boil & Bake:
- In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water, baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of sugar to a rolling boil.
- Carefully drop 2-3 bagels into the boiling water.
- Boil for 30 seconds per side.
- Remove bagels with a slotted spoon and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake bagels for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Top It Off: Immediately sprinkle with your desired toppings.
- Cool Down: Let bagels cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing and enjoying.
There you have it, folks! Your guide to crafting the perfect homemade bagel. Now, go forth and conquer your breakfast game. Top your creations with your favorite schmear, pile on the lox and capers, or get creative with avocado, egg, and everything bagel seasoning.