Best Homemade Bagel Recipe

This Best Homemade Bagel Recipe delivers chewy, golden-browned bagels fresh from your oven. With a simple yeast dough, a brief boil for signature texture, and a crisp bake, these bagels are perfect for breakfast or brunch. Customize them with toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning for a bakery-style experience at home.

Ingredients

• 4 cups (500 g) bread flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 packet (7 g) instant yeast
• 1½ cups (360 ml) warm water
• 1 tablespoon barley malt syrup or honey (for boiling water)
• Toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning

Directions

1. In a large bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar; let sit until foamy (about 5 minutes).
2. Add flour and salt; knead until smooth and elastic, about 8–10 minutes.
3. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
4. Punch down dough and divide into 8 equal pieces.
5. Shape each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center and gently stretch into a ring.
6. Bring a large pot of water to a boil; add barley malt syrup or honey.
7. Boil bagels for 1 minute per side; remove and drain.
8. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment; sprinkle with desired toppings.
9. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
10. Cool on a wire rack before serving.