Family kitchen · Baking
Homemade Bagels
Soft, chewy, golden homemade bagels that are simple enough for a relaxed family baking day.
10–12bagels25 minprep15–17 minbake400°Foven
From Dianne's kitchen
A bakery favorite at home
Homemade bagels feel special, but the process is wonderfully approachable: mix, shape, give them a quick baking-soda bath, and bake.
Set out a few toppings so every family member can make a favorite—from sesame and everything seasoning to a simple golden plain bagel.
What you'll need
Ingredients
For the dough
- 2 cups warm water
- 2½ tablespoons instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup melted butter or avocado oil
For the bath and topping
- 2 cups boiling water
- ¼ cup baking soda
- 1 egg, beaten with a splash of water
- Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning
Step by step
Instructions
- Combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for about 3 minutes.
- Add the flour, salt, and melted butter or oil. Mix and knead until smooth, about 3 minutes in a mixer or a little longer by hand.
- Divide the dough into 10–12 pieces. Roll each into a ball, make a hole in the center, and gently stretch into a bagel shape.
- Stir the baking soda into the boiling water. Carefully dip each bagel in the bath, then place it on a lined baking sheet.
- Brush with egg wash and add your favorite toppings.
- Bake at 400°F for 15–17 minutes, until puffed and golden. Cool briefly before slicing.
Dianne's kitchen tip
Make a batch for the freezer.
Cool the bagels completely, slice them, and freeze in an airtight bag. Toast directly from frozen for an easy breakfast.
Use flour lightly while shaping; too much can make the bagels dense.