Delicious Chewy Bagels recipe

The Ultimate Chewy Bagels Recipe – Soft, Springy, and Irresistible!

There’s nothing quite like homemade bagels. Their perfectly chewy texture, soft and airy interior, and golden, crispy crust make them a breakfast staple. Whether you love them plain, slathered in cream cheese, or turned into the ultimate bagel sandwich, this recipe will quickly become your go-to.

But beyond the delicious outcome, making these delicious Chewy bagels from scratch is an experience in itself. The process of mixing the dough, kneading it into shape, and watching it rise is incredibly satisfying. The rich, malty-yeasty aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake will have your family eagerly waiting by the oven. And when you pull out that tray of golden, freshly baked bagels, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment like never before.

Why You’ll Love This Chewy Bagels Recipe

• Perfect Texture: A crispy, golden crust with a delightfully chewy inside.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples like flour, yeast, and water.
• Easy to Follow: A streamlined method that makes bagel-making a breeze.
• Versatile: Enjoy them plain, with spreads, or as a sandwich base.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Store or freeze for future delicious breakfasts.

Ready to bake your own batch of homemade bagels? Let’s dive into the step-by-step process!

Ingredients for the Best Homemade Chewy Bagels

Bagel Dough:

• 500g strong white bread flour – Provides structure and chewiness.
• 1 tbsp caster sugar – Enhances flavor and aids in yeast activation.
• 1 tsp salt – Strengthens the dough and balances flavors.
• 7g sachet fast-action yeast – Ensures a good rise and airy texture.
• 300ml warm water – Helps activate the yeast and form the dough.

Boiling Solution:

• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda – Adds chewiness and helps with browning.

Egg Wash & Toppings:

• 1 medium egg, beaten – Creates a shiny, golden crust.
• Optional toppings: Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or flaky salt.

Filling (Optional, for a sweet twist):

• 185g lemon curd – Adds a citrusy, tangy-sweet flavor.
• 50g white chocolate chips – Melts into the bagel for a rich, creamy bite.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chewy Bagels

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Keep the salt and yeast on opposite sides before mixing to prevent deactivating the yeast.
2. Add the warm water and mix until a rough dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes by hand or in a stand mixer with a dough hook. It should become smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)

4. Place the kneaded dough into an oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Shape the Bagels

5. Punch down the dough to remove air. Divide it into nine equal pieces, around 90g each.
6. Roll each piece into a ball, then use your fingers to poke a hole in the center, stretching it into a 3cm-wide ring.

Step 5: Second Rise (Final Proofing)

7. Arrange the shaped bagels on a lined baking tray. Cover with lightly oiled plastic wrap and let them rest for 30 minutes.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Water Bath

8. Preheat your oven to 200°C Fan / 220°C / 425°F / Gas Mark 7.
9. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add bicarbonate of soda.

Step 7: Boil the Bagels (For That Classic Chewy Texture!)

10. Drop the bagels into the boiling water, working in batches. Boil for 1 minute total, flipping them halfway through (30 seconds per side).
11. Remove and place back onto the baking tray, letting them dry slightly.

Step 8: Egg Wash & Toppings

12. Brush each bagel with beaten egg for a shiny, golden crust.
13. Sprinkle with your favorite toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden & Chewy

14. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the bagels are puffed up and golden brown.

Step 10: Cool & Serve

15. Allow the bagels to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy them fresh with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite spreads!

How to Store & Freeze Bagels

Short-Term Storage:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate and toast before serving.

Freezing Instructions:

• Let the bagels cool completely, then slice in half (optional for easy toasting).
• Wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• To reheat: Toast straight from frozen or microwave for 30 seconds before toasting.

Serving Ideas – Ways to Enjoy Your Chewy Bagels

Bagels are incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to elevate your homemade bagels:

Classic & Savory:

• Cream cheese & smoked salmon – A deli-style favorite.
• Avocado & poached egg – Perfect for a hearty breakfast.
• Ham & cheese melt – Toasted with cheddar for an ultimate sandwich.
• Peanut butter & banana – A delicious energy-boosting snack.

Sweet & Dessert-Inspired:

• Lemon curd & white chocolate (from this recipe!) – A sweet, tangy combo.
• Nutella & strawberries – A chocolatey indulgence.
• Honey & ricotta – Light, creamy, and naturally sweet.

FAQs – Tips for the Best Homemade Bagels

1. Why do I need to boil the bagels?
Boiling the bagels gelatinizes the outer layer, giving them their signature chewy crust. The bicarbonate of soda in the water enhances browning and chewiness.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! After the first rise, refrigerate the dough overnight and continue with shaping and baking the next day.

3. How can I make my bagels even chewier?
Use high-protein bread flour, knead well, and ensure a long rise for the best chewiness.

4. What’s the best way to get a golden crust?
Egg wash is key! Brushing with beaten egg before baking gives bagels their shiny, golden finish.

Final Thoughts – Why You Need to Try This Bagel Recipe

If you’ve never made homemade bagels before, now’s the time to start! This easy, foolproof method delivers bakery-quality results with minimal effort. Whether you love them sweet or savory, these bagels are sure to become a family favorite.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your bagel creations on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram!

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Happy baking!

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