What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Making homemade bagels is easier than you think, and the results are so rewarding. You’ll love the chewy texture, golden crust, and the pride of baking them from scratch.
- Simple ingredients—just flour, yeast, water, and a touch of sweetness for dough that’s easy to work with.
- Endless customization—top with sesame seeds, everything seasoning, or keep them plain for classic goodness.
- Fresh-from-the-oven flavor—nothing beats the smell and taste of warm, homemade bagels.
Recipe
Homemade bagels are a classic baked good that can be made right in your kitchen. With a chewy texture and a crispy crust, these bagels are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
- 4 ½ cups bread flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, coarse salt, or everything bagel seasoning
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the yeast and warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add the sugar, salt, and oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center and stretch to form a bagel shape.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tbsp of sugar.
- Boil each bagel for 1-2 minutes per side, then transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Add optional toppings if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes:
- For a chewier texture, boil the bagels for the full 2 minutes per side.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large pot
Time:
- Prep time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
8 bagels
Nutrition
Here’s the nutritional information for one homemade bagel.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 56 g |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade bagels with creamy spreads like chive or honey walnut cream cheese—they add such delicious flavor. For something classic, I can’t resist topping them with smoked salmon and a sprinkle of capers for a brunch-worthy treat. Mixing and matching these options makes every bite feel special.
Cream Cheese Varieties
Cream cheese isn’t just a spread—it’s a blank canvas for flavor. I love experimenting with different varieties to make my homemade bagels shine. Plain cream cheese is classic, but I often mix in herbs like chives or dill for a fresh twist. Sweet options, like honey walnut or strawberry, are perfect for breakfast. For something bold, I’ll blend in jalapeños or roasted garlic. Vegan cream cheese works great too, if you’re dairy-free. The key is balancing flavors without overpowering the bagel itself. Trust me, once you start playing with cream cheese, you’ll never settle for plain again.
Smoked Salmon Pairings
When you’ve got smoked salmon, you’re halfway to a meal that feels fancy without much effort. I love pairing it with creamy avocado slices, crisp cucumber, or tangy capers for a fresh contrast. A schmear of dill-infused cream cheese ties everything together beautifully. For a heartier bite, add thinly sliced red onion or a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning. If you’re feeling indulgent, top it with a soft-boiled egg for extra richness. The key is balancing flavors—salty, creamy, and bright—so each bite sings. Trust me, it’s a combo that never disappoints.
