Homemade Bagels

Soft, chewy, and golden—these homemade bagels will have you skipping the store forever.

Ingredients

For the Yeast Mixture (Wet Ingredients):

• 2 cups warm water
• 2½ tablespoons instant yeast
• 1 tablespoon organic sugar

For the Dough (Dry Ingredients):

• 5 cups organic all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ cup melted butter or avocado oil

For the Water Bath:

• 2 cups boiling water
• ¼ cup baking soda

For the Egg Wash & Topping:

• 1 egg, beaten
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast
   In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir well and let sit for 3 minutes.
2. Make the Dough
   In another bowl, mix flour and salt. Add to the yeast mixture along with melted butter or avocado oil. Using a stand mixer with a dough hook, mix on speed 4–5 for about 3 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Shape the Bagels
   Lightly flour your work surface. Transfer the dough, divide into 10–12 equal pieces, and weigh them for even baking. Stretch and fold each piece a few times, then roll into a ball. Poke a hole in the center with your thumb and shape into bagels.
4. Prepare the Water Bath
   Boil 2 cups of water and pour into a large bowl. Stir in the baking soda (it should look cloudy).
5. Preheat Oven & Add Toppings
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Brush each bagel with the beaten egg and add your desired toppings.
6. Bake
   Place bagels on the baking sheet and bake for 15–17 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Cool & Enjoy!
   Let bagels cool slightly before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for later

 Pro Tip
Make it a weekend project with the kids or prep a batch for the week ahead. These bagels are freezer-friendly and perfect for breakfast sandwiches or snacking.