bagel recipe with greek yogurt

Bagel Recipe

Making a fresh bagel recipe at home may sound intimidating, but it is much simpler than most people expect. With just a handful of basic pantry ingredients and some patience, you can create chewy, bakery-style bagels right in your own kitchen. Homemade bagels are fresher, more affordable, and far more satisfying than store-bought versions.

This bagel recipe walks you through every stage of the process from mixing the dough to boiling and baking using clear, beginner-friendly instructions. Even if you are new to working with yeast doughs, this guide explains what to look for at each step so you feel confident from start to finish.Preparation Details

bagel recipe ideas
bagel recipe ideas

Ingredients

  • 1½ cups warm water (100–110°F / 38–43°C)
  • 2¾ teaspoons instant or active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon sugar or barley malt syrup
  • 4 cups bread flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • Oil or nonstick spray for greasing

For Boiling

  • 2 quarts water
  • ¼ cup honey or barley malt syrup

For Topping

  • 1 egg white mixed with 1 tablespoon water

Directions (How to Make a Bagel Recipe)

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. You should see light foam on the surface, which means the yeast is active.

Add the flour and salt to the bowl. Mix until a stiff dough forms and pulls away from the sides. The dough should feel firm, not sticky.

2. Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for 6–7 minutes, pushing the dough away with the heel of your hand, folding it back, and turning it slightly each time. The dough is ready when it feels smooth and springs back slowly when pressed.

3. First Rise

Lightly grease a clean bowl and place the dough inside, turning it once so all sides are coated. Cover with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for 1½–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

4. Shape the Bagels

Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball. Press your finger through the center of each ball and gently stretch the hole until it is about 1½–2 inches wide.

Place the shaped bagels on a lined baking sheet and let them rest for 5–10 minutes.

5. Boil the Bagels

Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
Bring the water and honey to a boil in a wide pot. Carefully place 2–3 bagels into the water at a time. Boil for 1 minute, flip, and boil for another minute. Remove and drain well.

6. Bake

Arrange the boiled bagels back on the baking sheet. Brush the tops and sides with egg wash.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway, until the bagels are deep golden brown.

Cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Tips for the Best Bagel Recipe

  • Always boil the bagels before baking this step creates the chewy texture
  • Bread flour is strongly recommended for proper structure
  • Let bagels cool before slicing to avoid a gummy interior
bagel recipe
bagel recipe

Preparation Details

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Dough Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours
  • Servings: 8
  • Yield: 8 bagels

Storage

Store cooled bagels at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months and toast before serving.