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–+ servings

Easy Bagel Recipe

Lisa Street
Easy bagels are a delicious base perfect for endless tasty toppings to boost your breakfast. Cream cheese remains the classic, with options like herbs, smoked salmon, or honey for variety.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 18
Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

  • Pot

Ingredients
  

Water Bath

  • 64 ounces warm water
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 2 ounces pure maple syrup

Egg Wash

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon filtered water

Dough Ingredients

  • 14 grams instant or active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1½ teaspoons fine sea salt
  • 30 ounces bread flour or plain all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 16 ounces lukewarm water around 110ºF

Instructions
 

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  • In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm water with the yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates the yeast is alive and kicking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

  • In another bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, fine sea salt, and brown sugar. Combining these ingredients separately ensures a more uniform blend in the dough.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  • Pour the yeast mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients, followed by the olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

  • Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Don’t rush this step! Proper kneading is essential for that chewy bagel texture.

Step 5: First Rise

  • Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 6: Shape the Bagels

  • Once your dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape them into balls. Poke a hole in the center of each ball and gently stretch it to form your bagel shape.

Step 7: Prepare the Water Bath

  • In a large pot, bring the water, kosher salt, and maple syrup to a simmer. This bath gives the bagels their unique texture!

Step 8: Boil and Bake

  • Carefully drop each bagel into the simmering water for about 1 minute on each side. Then transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment.

Step 9: Egg Wash

  • Beat the egg with the tablespoon of water and brush it over the tops of the bagels. This will give them that beautiful golden color.

Step 10: Bake

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the bagels for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before enjoying!

Notes

  • Adjust Flour as Necessary: Depending on your altitude and humidity, you may need slightly more or less flour. The dough should be slightly tacky but manageable.
  • Topping Ideas: Consider adding toppings like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning before baking for extra flavor.
  • Storage: Store them in a zip-top bag at room temperature for 2-3 days. They also freeze well, so make extras for later!
  • Don’t Skip the Boiling: This step is crucial for that authentic bagel texture. Trust the process!
  • Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to mix in herbs and spices to the dough. It adds an extra layer of flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 6gFat: 5.1gSaturated Fat: 0.9gCholesterol: 42mgSodium: 878mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1IUCalcium: 3mgIron: 12mg
Keyword Easy Bagel Recipe
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