Best and Easy way to make your own homemade bagles

Homemade Bagels Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 cups bread flour (plus extra for kneading)
• 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tbsp sugar
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 quarts water (for boiling)
• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for boiling water)
• Toppings (optional): sesame seeds, poppy seeds, coarse salt, everything bagel seasoning

Instructions

1. Activate Yeast:
   • Combine warm water and sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make Dough:
   • In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and oil, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead Dough:
   • Knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Proof the Dough:
   • Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
5. Shape Bagels:
   • Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, poke a hole in the center with your finger, and stretch it into a bagel shape.
6. Second Rise:
   • Place shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let them rest for 15-20 minutes.
7. Boil Bagels:
   • Bring water to a gentle boil in a large pot. Add honey for flavor (optional). Boil bagels, a few at a time, for 1 minute per side.
8. Add Toppings:
   • Sprinkle desired toppings on the boiled bagels while still wet.
9. Bake Bagels:
   • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place boiled bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Pairing Ideas

1. Classic Fillings:
   • Cream cheese and smoked salmon with capers and dill.
   • Egg salad, avocado, and lettuce.
2. Sweet Variations:
   • Peanut butter and banana.
   • Cream cheese and a drizzle of honey with fresh berries.
3. Savory Options:
   • Bacon, egg, and cheese for a breakfast bagel.
   • Grilled chicken, pesto, and mozzarella.

Nutritional Value (Per Plain Bagel)

• Calories: ~250 kcal
• Protein: ~8g
• Carbohydrates: ~50g
• Fat: ~1.5g
  • Saturated Fat: ~0.5g
• Fiber: ~2g
• Sodium: ~300mg

Adding toppings or fillings will change these values, but homemade bagels offer a fresher and customizable option compared to store-bought varieties.