Easy Bagel Recipe

There’s something deeply satisfying about making bagels from scratch. The dough is simple, the process is grounding, and the reward is a batch of warm, golden bagels with that classic chewy bite. These bagels are perfect for breakfast spreads, snack boards, or freezing for easy mornings — crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy inside.

Whether you keep them plain or dress them up with seeds and seasonings, this basic bagel dough is endlessly customizable and surprisingly approachable, even if you’ve never made bagels before.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft & chewy: That signature bagel texture, made at home

• Beginner-friendly: Straightforward ingredients and simple steps

• Perfect size: bagels are great for toasting, sandwiches, or sharing

Ingredients

Makes 12 large bagels or 24 mini

• 2¼ cups warm water

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 1½ tbsp yeast

• 5 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tsp salt

Instructions

1️⃣ Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Cover with a towel and let sit for about 10 minutes, until foamy and active.

2️⃣ Make the Dough

In a separate bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly springy to the touch. (if making cheddar jalapeno bagels; kneed about 2 cups of shredded cheese and 1/4 cup of minced jalapeno into the dough)

3️⃣ Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball, poke a hole through the center, and gently stretch into a bagel shape. Let rest for 30 minutes.

4️⃣ Boil

Bring a large saute pan of water to a boil. Carefully drop bagels into the water and boil for 1–2 minutes per side. This step gives bagels their classic chewy crust.

5️⃣ Bake

Transfer boiled bagels to a lined baking sheet. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with toppings like sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, cheese, and/ or sliced jalapeno. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown.

6️⃣ Cool

Move bagels to a wire rack immediately to prevent soggy bottoms. Allow to cool slightly before slicing or serving.

Topping & Serving Ideas

• Classic: Cream cheese, butter, or jam

• Savory: Avocado, smoked salmon, or egg

• Sweet: Honey, cinnamon sugar, or nut butter

• Make ahead: Slice and freeze once cooled — toast straight from frozen

Final Thoughts

These homemade mini bagels prove that great bread doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of pantry staples and a little time, you’ll have fresh, chewy bagels that taste far better than store-bought — and make your kitchen smell incredible while they bake.

Soft • Chewy • Comforting