Are you craving those chewy, delicious bagels but dreading the seemingly complicated process of making them from scratch? Fear not! This recipe will show you how to make incredibly satisfying homemade bagels using your bread machine – making this a quick and easy breakfast or brunch. Forget store-bought bagels; these homemade versions are bursting with flavor and texture, and they're surprisingly simple to create, even for beginner bakers. Let's get started on this delicious journey into the world of easy recipes and healthy meals!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 ½ teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 ½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Everything bagel seasoning (or sesame seeds, poppy seeds, etc.)
Instructions:
Step 1: Bread Machine Magic:
Add the warm water, sugar, yeast, salt, and olive oil to your bread machine pan in the order recommended by your machine's manual. This is crucial for optimal yeast activation.
Step 2: Flour Power:
Gradually add 3 ½ cups of flour to the bread machine pan. Your bread machine will do the mixing and kneading for you – making this one of the easiest recipes you'll ever try.
Step 3: The First Rise:
Select the "dough" cycle on your bread machine. This will allow the dough to rise properly. The exact time will vary depending on your machine, so consult your user manual.
Step 4: Shaping the Bagels:
Once the dough cycle is complete, gently turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball. Then, poke a hole in the center of each ball using your finger and gently enlarge the hole to about 1-1 ½ inches.
Step 5: The Second Rise (Proofing):
Place the bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up slightly.
Step 6: Boiling Point:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently drop 3-4 bagels into the boiling water for 1 minute per side. This step is essential for that signature chewy bagel texture. Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheet.
Step 7: Egg Wash and Seasoning:
Brush the boiled bagels with the beaten egg and sprinkle generously with your favorite toppings (everything bagel seasoning is a classic!).
Step 8: Bake to Perfection:
Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Tips for Bagel Success:
- Water Temperature: Make sure your water is the correct temperature (105-115°F). Too hot and you'll kill the yeast; too cold and it won't activate properly.
- Flour Adjustments: You may need slightly more or less flour depending on the humidity and your specific flour. Add flour one tablespoon at a time until the dough is no longer sticky.
- Don't Overwork the Dough: Gentle handling is key! Overworking will result in tough bagels.
Variations:
- Flavored Bagels: Add herbs, spices, or even shredded cheese to the dough for a unique twist.
- Sweet Bagels: Reduce the salt and add a tablespoon or two of cinnamon or other sweet spices.
- Different Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Try different seeds, dried fruits, or even chopped nuts.
Nutritional Information (per bagel, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 200-250 Protein: Approximately 5-7g Fat: Approximately 5-7g Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
This recipe makes delicious homemade bagels incredibly easy. Enjoy the satisfying experience of homemade cooking and the incredible taste of fresh, warm bagels. These are perfect for a quick breakfast, a satisfying brunch, or even a delicious addition to a light lunch. This quick dinner idea is sure to become a family favorite!