Description
A budget-friendly, easy-to-make recipe for homemade everything bagels that costs less than a dollar per bagel. Features a chewy texture achieved through boiling and baking, with customizable toppings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups (375g) All-Purpose Flour
- 1 cup (240ml) Warm Water
- 1 packet (2.25g or 2 ¼ tsp) Active Dry Yeast
- 1 tablespoon Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil
- 4 cups (1 liter) Water (for boiling)
- 2 tablespoons Honey or Maple Syrup
- 2–3 tablespoons Everything Bagel Seasoning
- 1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water (Optional Egg Wash)
- Cream Cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top, stir gently, and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the dough: Add salt and oil to the yeast mixture. Add flour one cup at a time, stirring until too thick to stir. Turn onto a floured surface.
- Knead the dough: Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add small amounts of flour or water if needed to achieve a soft, non-sticky consistency.
- First rise: Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours until doubled in size. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Shape the bagels: Punch down the dough and divide into 4-6 equal pieces. Roll each into a rope, wrap around a finger to form a hole, and pinch the seam shut.
- Boil the bagels: Bring a large pot of water with honey to a boil. Drop in 2-3 bagels at a time. Boil for 1 minute per side (2 minutes total). Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels.
- Add topping and bake: While still wet, press everything seasoning into the tops. Optionally brush with egg wash first. Place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes until deep golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Let bagels cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing to prevent gummy texture. Serve with cream cheese.
Notes
Ensure water is warm, not hot, when activating yeast. Do not rush the boiling step; 1 minute per side is crucial for chewiness. Cool bagels completely before slicing to avoid a gummy interior. Bagels freeze well individually for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 42
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 7
Keywords: homemade bagels, everything bagels, budget recipes, easy breakfast, DIY bagels, cheap meals, yeast dough, boiling bagels