How to Make Bagels at Home
Learn how to make fresh, chewy homemade bagels with simple ingredients, a quick boil, and a golden bake.
How to Make Homemade Bagels
Homemade bagels are easier than most people think. This recipe shows you how to make the dough, let it rise, shape the bagels, boil them, add toppings, and bake them until golden brown. The boiling step is what gives homemade bagels their chewy texture and classic crust.
Watch How to Make Bagels
Follow along with this step-by-step homemade bagel video from The Baltimore Catering Company. The video walks through the full process so you can see how the dough, shaping, boiling, and baking all come together.
Quick Answers About Homemade Bagels
These quick answers help explain the most important parts of making bagels at home.
What makes homemade bagels chewy?
The chewy texture comes from kneading the dough and boiling the shaped bagels before baking.
Why do you boil bagels?
Boiling sets the outside of the dough and creates the classic bagel crust.
Can I make bagels with all-purpose flour?
Yes. All-purpose flour works well for this recipe. Bread flour can make them slightly chewier, but it is not required.
What toppings are best for homemade bagels?
Everything seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, onion flakes, garlic, and coarse salt are all great choices.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for kneading
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or neutral oil
- 1.5 tablespoons honey
- 2.75 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water, about 110°F
- 1 egg white beaten with a splash of water
- Optional toppings: everything seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, onion flakes, garlic, or coarse salt
Recipe Overview
This easy bagel recipe uses a simple yeast dough. After the dough rises, each bagel is shaped by hand, boiled briefly in honey water, brushed with egg wash, topped, and baked.
The result is a warm, chewy, homemade bagel that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, cream cheese, smoked salmon, sandwiches, or freezing for later.
How to Make Bagels Step by Step
1. Activate the yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and salt in warm water. Add the yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour and yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
4. Let the dough rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the bagels
Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then press your thumb through the center to form a hole.
6. Boil the bagels
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and stir in the honey. Boil the bagels for about 1 minute per side.
7. Add egg wash and toppings
Brush each bagel with egg wash, then add your favorite toppings while the surface is still wet.
8. Bake and enjoy
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let the bagels cool slightly before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Making Bagels
How long does it take to make homemade bagels?
Homemade bagels usually take about 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours from start to finish, including rising, boiling, and baking.
Do I have to boil bagels before baking?
Yes. Boiling is the step that gives bagels their chewy crust and classic texture.
Can I use all-purpose flour for bagels?
Yes. All-purpose flour works well for this easy homemade bagel recipe.
Can homemade bagels be frozen?
Yes. Let the bagels cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight bag. Slice them first if you want to toast them from frozen.
What should I put on homemade bagels?
Popular toppings include cream cheese, butter, smoked salmon, egg, cheese, avocado, or your favorite sandwich ingredients.