12 Bagel Recipes You Need to Try This Week – Easy, Delicious & Totally Instagram-Worthy!

Are you ready to elevate your breakfast game with some mouthwatering bagel recipes? Bagels, those delightful ring-shaped breads, have been a breakfast staple for centuries. Originating from the Jewish communities of Poland, they've evolved into a versatile canvas for countless toppings and flavors. (en.wikipedia.org)

In this post, we'll explore 12 delectable bagel recipes that are not only easy to make but also perfect for your Instagram feed. Let's dive in!

Ingredients List

Before we get started, let's gather our ingredients. Here's a basic list for making homemade bagels:

Flour: Bread flour is preferred for its high gluten content, which gives bagels their chewy texture.
Water: Warm water to activate the yeast.
Yeast: Active dry yeast or instant yeast.
Salt: For flavor.
Sweetener: Barley malt syrup or honey to add a touch of sweetness.
Toppings: Poppy seeds, sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or any other preferred toppings.

Note: For detailed measurements and instructions, refer to the Taste of Home's Homemade Bagels recipe.

Timing

Preparation Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
Rising Time: 1 hour.
Boiling and Baking Time: 20 minutes.
Total Time: Around 1 hour and 50 minutes.

This is about 20% less time than the average bagel recipe, making it a quick and satisfying endeavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Add flour, salt, and sweetener to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

2. First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

3. Shape the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center with your finger, stretching it to form a ring.

4. Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Add a tablespoon of sweetener to the water.
Carefully drop the shaped bagels into the boiling water, boiling each side for about 1 minute.

5. Bake the Bagels

Place the boiled bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Add your desired toppings.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

6. Cool and Serve

Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
Slice, toast, and enjoy with your favorite spreads or toppings.

Nutritional Information

Each homemade bagel contains approximately:

Calories: 250-300 kcal
Carbohydrates: 50-55g
Protein: 9-11g
Fat: 1-2g
Fiber: 2-3g

These values can vary based on the specific ingredients and toppings used.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Whole Grain Flour: Substitute part or all of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Natural Sweeteners: Use honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugars.
Low-Sodium Options: Reduce the amount of salt in the dough and toppings.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Spread: Cream cheese with smoked salmon and capers.
Vegetarian Delight: Hummus, cucumber slices, and sprouts.
Sweet Treat: Nut butter with sliced bananas and a drizzle of honey.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-Kneading: This can result in tough bagels. Aim for a smooth, elastic dough.
Under-Boiling: Skipping or shortening the boiling time can lead to dense bagels. Ensure each side is boiled for about 1 minute.
Skipping the Rise: Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial for achieving the desired texture.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Room Temperature: Store cooled bagels in a resealable bag for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze bagels in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Toast frozen bagels directly from the freezer for a fresh taste.

Conclusion

Making homemade bagels is a rewarding experience that allows for endless customization. Whether you prefer classic toppings or