Bagels are a classic breakfast food that are easy to love. The chewy texture and unique shape make them a fun and delicious addition to any brunch spread. While store-bought bagels are convenient, nothing beats the taste of homemade bagels. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make soft, chewy bagels from scratch that are perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
To make 8 bagels, you will need:
- 500g bread flour
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp dry yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 300ml warm water
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp water
- sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, salt, dry yeast, and sugar. Mix well.
- Add warm water to the mixture and stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Use your thumb to make a hole in the center of each ball and shape it into a bagel.
- Preheat the oven to 220°C. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the bagels, two at a time. Boil for 1-2 minutes on each side.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the egg wash over the bagels and sprinkle them with sesame seeds or poppy seeds if desired.
- Bake the bagels for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool on a wire rack before serving.
Serve your homemade bagels warm with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or your favorite breakfast spread. They also make a great base for breakfast sandwiches or can be enjoyed on their own as a satisfying breakfast or brunch treat.
Variations
For a sweeter bagel, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough. You can also add raisins or cinnamon to the dough for a delicious cinnamon raisin bagel.
If you prefer a seeded bagel, mix sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning into the dough. You can also sprinkle the seeds on top of the egg wash for a more pronounced flavor.
For a vegan version of this recipe, replace the egg wash with a mixture of non-dairy milk and maple syrup. You can also use a vegan cream cheese or avocado spread as a topping.
Give this easy homemade bagel recipe a try and enjoy a delicious breakfast or brunch treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
FAQ
What is a bagel?
A bagel is a ring-shaped bread that is typically boiled and then baked. Bagels originated in Jewish communities in Poland in the early 17th century.
What ingredients do I need to make bagels?
To make bagels, you will need flour, yeast, sugar, salt, water, and optionally, toppings such as sesame seeds or poppy seeds.
Can I use all-purpose flour to make bagels?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour to make bagels, but bread flour is recommended because it has a higher protein content, which gives the bagels their chewy texture.
Do I need a special machine to make bagels?
No, you do not need a special machine to make bagels. You can make them by hand or with a stand mixer.
How long does it take to make bagels?
It takes about 2 hours to make bagels, including rising time and baking time.
Can I freeze bagels?
Yes, you can freeze bagels. Let them cool completely, then wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat frozen bagels?
To reheat frozen bagels, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap the bagels in aluminum foil, and bake for 10-15 minutes.
What are some common bagel toppings?
Common bagel toppings include cream cheese, lox (smoked salmon), tomato, onion, capers, and various spreads and jams.
Can I make whole wheat bagels?
Yes, you can make whole wheat bagels by substituting whole wheat flour for some or all of the bread flour in the recipe.
How do I know when the bagels are done baking?
The bagels should be golden brown and have a slightly crispy exterior when they are done baking. You can also tap the bottom of a bagel – it should sound hollow.
