Description

There’s nothing quite like a fresh, chewy, golden-crusted New York Bagel—and now, you can make this iconic bakery treat right at home. Boiled before baking and made with just the right ingredients, these bagels have that signature shine, dense yet tender texture, and flavor that just hits differently. Whether you enjoy them plain, topped with cream cheese, or stacked into a sandwich, this recipe brings the authentic bagel shop experience to your kitchen.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

4 cups bread flour (plus more for kneading)
2 tsp instant yeast
1 ½ tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F)

For Boiling:

2 quarts water
2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
1 tbsp baking soda (optional for more shine)

For Toppings (Optional):

Sesame seeds
Poppy seeds
Everything bagel seasoning
Coarse sea salt

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together bread flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast.
Add warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead by hand for 10 minutes (or 6–8 minutes in a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic.
Form into a ball, cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap, and let rest for 1 hour, or until nearly doubled.

Step 2: Shape the Bagels
Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces.
Shape each piece into a smooth ball.
To form bagels, poke a hole through the center with your thumb and gently stretch it to about 1½ inches wide.
Place shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rest for 20–30 minutes.

Step 3: Boil the Bagels
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Stir in brown sugar or honey (and baking soda if using).
Boil bagels 2–3 at a time for 30–45 seconds per side.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer them back to the baking sheet.
While still wet, sprinkle your favorite toppings over the bagels.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until bagels are golden brown and cooked through.
Cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use Bread Flour – Higher protein content gives bagels their chewy texture.
Boil Before Baking – This is key to getting that iconic crust.
Don’t Overproof – Bagels should be puffy but still firm before boiling.
Toppings Stick Best – Sprinkle them right after boiling while the surface is still damp.
Get Creative – Add cinnamon and raisins to the dough for a sweet version.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American (New York Style)