Homemade Budget Bagels (Printable Version)

Chewy, golden bagels crafted from staple ingredients for versatile meals and sharing.

# The Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Dough

01 - 4 cups bread flour, plus extra for dusting
02 - 2¼ teaspoons instant dry yeast
03 - 1½ teaspoons fine sea salt
04 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
05 - 1¼ cups warm water (approximately 105°F)

→ Poaching Water

06 - 8 cups water
07 - 1 tablespoon baking soda
08 - 1 tablespoon sugar

→ Toppings (optional)

09 - 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
10 - 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
11 - 2 tablespoons dried onion flakes
12 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash; optional)

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Combine bread flour, yeast, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Add warm water and mix until dough forms.
02 - Knead dough on lightly floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
03 - Place dough in lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
04 - Punch down dough and divide into 8 equal portions. Shape each into a ball, poke a hole through center, and stretch to form bagels.
05 - Place bagels on parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with towel, and rest for 15 minutes.
06 - Set oven temperature to 425°F.
07 - Bring 8 cups water to boil in large pot. Add baking soda and sugar, stirring to dissolve.
08 - Gently place bagels, 2 to 3 at a time, into simmering water. Boil each side for 45 seconds, then remove with slotted spoon and place on baking sheet.
09 - Brush bagels with beaten egg or water for vegan option. Sprinkle with desired toppings.
10 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown. Cool on wire rack before serving.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients
  • Great for meal prep and customizable with toppings
02 -
  • Skip the egg wash and use water for vegan bagels
  • Bagels freeze very well; slice before freezing for convenience
03 -
  • Add cinnamon and raisins to the dough for a sweet twist
  • Use high-gluten bread flour for extra chewy bagels
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