Imagine biting into a freshly baked Easy Homemade Bagel, its warm, chewy exterior yielding to a soft, pillowy center. Each bite resonates with the flavors of sweet molasses mingling with rich, buttery goodness, all topped with a sprinkle of coarse salt. It’s the kind of homemade goodness that makes you want to throw a brunch party just to show off your culinary prowess. The best part? Making these delicious pretzel bagels at home is easier than you might think, and they are perfect for family gatherings or lazy Sunday mornings.
As you roll up your sleeves and dive into this recipe, you’ll feel the comforting blend of flour and water transform into something magical. Whether you enjoy them toasted with cream cheese, paired with a scrumptious breakfast sandwich, or just fresh out of the oven with a smear of butter, these Easy Homemade Bagels are bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s turn that kitchen into a bakery and get this dough rolling!
Why You'll Love This Easy Homemade Bagels
- This incredible Easy Homemade Bagels transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Easy Homemade Bagels
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Easy Homemade Bagels:
2 cups warm water – This will activate the yeast and help create the perfect dough consistency.
1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons) – Instant yeast ensures a quick rise, making your bagels ready in no time.
1 tablespoon molasses or honey – Adds a hint of sweetness and helps achieve that beautiful golden color.
5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation for your dough, giving it the right structure and chew.
1 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the flavor of the bagels and strengthens the dough.
6 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature – Adds richness and a wonderful buttery taste.
1/4 cup baking soda – This creates that classic pretzel flavor and dark color when boiling the bagels.
1 egg, beaten – For brushing, giving your bagels a shiny, golden crust.
pretzel salt or flaky sea salt – This finishing touch will add a delightful crunch and salty flavor.
How to Make Easy Homemade Bagels
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Easy Homemade Bagels:
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the warm water, instant yeast, molasses, all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and 2 tablespoons of softened butter. Knead this mixture until it forms a cohesive dough, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Cover the bowl and let it sit in a warm place for 1-2 hours, allowing the dough to double in size.
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Your kitchen should start smelling heavenly by now, with a hint of yeast and sweetness in the air, getting you even more excited about what’s to come!
Step 3: Shape the Bagels
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide the dough into 10-12 equal pieces. Working with one dough ball at a time, poke a hole through the center and gently stretch the dough to create a bagel shape, with the hole about 1/2-1 inch wide. Place each shaped bagel on the prepared baking sheets. After forming them all, cover the tray with a damp kitchen towel and let them rise for about 15 minutes.
Step 4: Boil the Bagels
Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil. Add the baking soda – be careful, it might bubble up a bit! Lower 2-3 bagels into the water and boil for 3 minutes. Flip them over and boil for another 1-2 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon, letting the excess water drain, and place them back on the parchment-lined sheets. Repeat this process until all the bagels are boiled.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
Once your bagels are boiling and looking fabulous, brush each one with the beaten egg, ensuring there’s no water pooling next to them. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. After that, take them out and brush the remaining 4 tablespoons of melted butter over each bagel. Generously sprinkle with pretzel salt before returning them to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, until they’re golden brown and irresistible.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
After baking, let the bagels cool slightly. Then, slice, toast, or enjoy them whole, perhaps slathering them with butter or cream cheese for an added treat. Trust me; the aroma is heavenly!
From start to finish, making Easy Homemade Bagels is not just about baking; it’s an experience filled with smells, textures, and mouthwatering goodness. You’ll wonder why you ever thought bagels were just for the bagel shop. Enjoy creating a new family favorite that everyone will love!
You Must Know About Easy Homemade Bagels
- This showstopping Easy Homemade Bagels delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Easy Homemade Bagels Cooking Process
To achieve the most delightful Easy Homemade Bagels, start by mixing and kneading your dough while it rests—prepping your baking sheets and boiling water at the same time ensures no waiting around. Boil in batches for even cooking, followed by a golden finish in the oven.
Add Your Touch to Easy Homemade Bagels
Feel free to experiment with your Easy Homemade Bagels! Try adding toppings like sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or even grated cheese before baking. You can also swap molasses for honey for a sweeter twist in flavor.
Storing & Reheating Easy Homemade Bagels
To store your Easy Homemade Bagels, place them in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag and reheat in the oven to regain their delightful crunch.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Easy Homemade Bagels
- This professional-quality Easy Homemade Bagels relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
I remember the first time I made these Easy Homemade Bagels for a brunch gathering. The kitchen filled with such a delicious aroma that my friends thought I had turned into a professional baker overnight!
FAQs About Easy Homemade Bagels
What are Easy Homemade Bagels?
Easy Homemade Bagels are delicious, chewy bread rings that combine the flavors of traditional bagels with the distinctive taste of pretzels. These homemade versions are surprisingly simple to make and require basic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. With a golden brown crust and a soft, fluffy interior, they are perfect for breakfast or a snack. When you make them yourself, you can customize toppings and fillings to suit your taste, making these bagels a delightful treat for any occasion.
How long does it take to make Easy Homemade Bagels?
The total time for Easy Homemade Bagels is about 2 hours and 45 minutes, which includes preparation, resting, and cooking time. The actual hands-on time is about 30 minutes, while the dough requires a resting period of 1 to 2 hours to rise properly. Once you’ve boiled and baked the bagels, they’ll be ready in 20-25 minutes, making them an excellent option for brunch or whenever you’re craving freshly baked bread.
Can I customize my Easy Homemade Bagels?
Absolutely! One of the best parts about making Easy Homemade Bagels at home is the chance to personalize them. You can experiment with toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding ingredients like cheese or herbs into the dough before shaping the bagels. Swapping molasses for honey or maple syrup can also give your bagels a unique flavor twist. Customizing them will make each batch feel special!
How should I store and reheat Easy Homemade Bagels?
To keep your Easy Homemade Bagels fresh, store them in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep them longer, freeze the bagels in a zip-top bag. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven for a few minutes until they’re warm and the crust is crisp again. This method will help you enjoy that delightful chewiness long after baking!
Conclusion for Easy Homemade Bagels
Making Easy Homemade Bagels is not only rewarding but also incredibly fun. You have the freedom to customize flavors and toppings, resulting in a delicious treat that can elevate any meal. With just a few hours, basic ingredients, and a little patience, you can enjoy freshly baked bagels right out of your own oven. So roll up your sleeves and get started on these delightful Easy Homemade Bagels that everyone will love!
Easy Homemade Bagels Recipe: Delightful Pretzel Bagels at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the water, yeast, molasses, flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons softened butter. Knead until the dough comes together, about 1-2 minutes. Cover and let sit in a warm place for 1-2 hours, until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Once the dough has doubled, punch it down and place on your counter, using a little more flour if needed to prevent from sticking. Divide dough into 10-12 balls.
- Working with one piece of dough at a time, use your finger to poke a hole in the middle. Gently stretch the dough until the hole is about 1/2-1 inch big. Place the bagel on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining pieces of dough. Cover the baking sheet with a damp kitchen towel and let the bagels rise for about 15 minutes.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Lower 2-3 bagels at a time into the water. Boil for 3 minutes then flip to the other side and boil for 1-2 additional minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the bagels from the pot letting the water drain. Transfer to a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Repeat until you've boiled all of the bagels.
- Brush each bagel with the beaten egg. Make sure there is no water piled up next to the bagels. Transfer to the oven and bake for 10 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and brush the remaining 4 tablespoons melted butter over each of the bagels. Generously sprinkle each bagel with salt. Return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown.
- Let cool. Slice, toast, eat whole, slathered with butter or cream cheese!
