Soft and Salty Bagels

Written By Tânia .

There’s nothing like the smell of freshly baked bagels in your kitchen — and this simple 5-ingredient bagel recipe makes it easier than you think! Soft and chewy on the inside, golden and slightly crisp on the outside, these bagels are perfect for brunch, snacks, or meal prep.

Made with everyday ingredients and a quick boil before baking, this is my go-to recipe when I want bakery-style bagels without leaving home. Whether you load them with seeds, salt, or enjoy them plain with butter or cream cheese — they NEVER disappoint.

Why You’ll Love These Bagels

  • Just 5 basic ingredients

  • No preservatives or additives

  • Perfect chew and crust every time

  • Customizable toppings

  • Great for brunch or make-ahead breakfasts

Ingredients (Makes 8 Bagels)

Dough

  • 360 ml warm water

  • 1 tbsp brown sugar

  • 7 g dry yeast

  • 540 g bread flour

  • 2 tsp salt

For Boiling

  • 2.8 L water

  • 2 tbsp brown sugar

  • 1 tsp baking soda

Instructions

Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, mix warm water + brown sugar. Sprinkle in the dry yeast and let it activate for ~10 minutes until foamy.

Make the Dough
Add bread flour and salt, then mix and knead until you have a smooth, elastic dough.

First Rise
Cover and let the dough rise for 1 hour, until slightly puffy.

Shape
Divide the dough and shape into rings. You can roll into ropes and join the ends, or pinch down the middle like I showed in the reel. Rest for 20 minutes.

Boil
Bring water, brown sugar, and baking soda to a simmer. Gently drop each bagel in and boil 1 minute per side. This step gives bagels their chewy texture!

Top & Bake
Place boiled bagels on a lined baking sheet. Add your favorite toppings — sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or flaky salt.

Bake
Bake at 220°C for 15 minutes. Flip and bake another 5–10 minutes until golden.

💡 Tips for Perfect Bagels

  • Warm water matters — too hot kills the yeast, too cold won’t activate it. Aim for ~38–43°C.

  • Don’t skip the boil — this makes all the difference in chew and crust.

  • Get creative with toppings — everything bagel seasoning, herbs, or even coarse sugar for a sweet twist!

✨ Save this recipe and make your kitchen smell like a bakery — trust me, homemade bagels > store-bought every time!
If you try them, tag your photos with #BakeBetterWithMe 💛

Tânia .
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