Homemade Bagels

Homemade Bagel Tips

How do you make bagels fluffy?

The key to making fluffy bagels is to avoid overboiling. Doing so will cause them to sink and lose the air you incorporated during the rise. Cook for 45 seconds; turn and cook 45 seconds longer. Learn how to make homemade bagels!

How do you make plain bagels taste better?

You can make plain bagels taste even better by adding toppings. Once your bagels are boiled, top with sesame seeds, poppy seeds or everything bagel seasoning. Don't forget to add a spread on top like garlic-herb bagel spread, cranberry cream cheese spread or a smoked salmon cheese spread.

Do you have to boil bagels?

Boiling bagels gives them that distinct chewy exterior. Plain water will do the job, but you can also add barley syrup to the water for a slightly darker colored bagel. Some people add baking soda, lye or sodium carbonate for a more pretzel-type crust.

How do you make bagel toppings stick?

Most toppings will stick to the moisture of a just-boiled bagel, but you can also brush the tops with beaten egg white.

Can I make bagel dough the night before?

Yes, you can make bagel dough the night before! Shape the dough into rings; place in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking pan. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. In the morning, boil the bagels as directed. Try whipping up these other homemade bagel recipes the night before, too.