Forget complicated yeast-based recipes! This easy bagel recipe delivers delicious, chewy bagels without the wait and fuss. Perfect for beginners, these bagels are surprisingly simple to make and offer endless possibilities for topping. Let's get baking!
What Makes This Bagel Recipe So Easy?
This recipe skips the traditional yeast rise, utilizing baking powder as a leavening agent. This drastically reduces the preparation time, allowing you to enjoy fresh bagels in a fraction of the time it would take with a yeast-based recipe. The result is a slightly denser, but equally satisfying bagel, perfect for enjoying with your favorite cream cheese and toppings.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Toppings of your choice (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning, etc.)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
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Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
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Shape the Bagels: Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball, then poke a hole in the center using your finger or a wooden dowel. Gently stretch the hole to about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
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Add Toppings: Place the bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle generously with your choice of toppings.
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Bake the Bagels: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the bagels for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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Cool and Enjoy: Let the bagels cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of flour?
While all-purpose flour works best in this recipe, you can experiment with bread flour for a chewier texture. Keep in mind that the amount of water you might need to adjust slightly depending on the type of flour used.
How long can I store these bagels?
These bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I make these bagels ahead of time?
You can shape the bagels ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What other toppings can I use?
The possibilities are endless! Consider using everything bagel seasoning, onion flakes, garlic powder, dried herbs, or even chopped nuts. Get creative and have fun with it!
Why are my bagels flat?
This could be due to several factors: not enough baking powder, not enough kneading, or baking at too low a temperature. Make sure you're using the correct amount of baking powder and kneading the dough thoroughly. Baking at the correct temperature is also crucial for achieving a good rise.
This easy no-yeast bagel recipe is a fantastic starting point for your baking journey. Enjoy the fresh-baked goodness and the satisfaction of making your own bagels from scratch! Remember to experiment with different toppings and variations to find your perfect bagel. Happy baking!
