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New York-Style Bagel Recipe

This easy homemade New York-Style Bagel recipe is simply the best! Basic pantry ingredients transform into deliciously chewy freshly made New York bagels.

New York-Style Bagel Recipe

This is simply the best homemade New York-Style Bagel Recipe. After so much love (this recipe has received over 11 years worth on here!), I had to share the recipe in Hand Made Baking, and I updated this page with various photos, tons of tips, tricks, and information you’ll need to achieve the most perfect chewy homemade bagels.

This easy bagel recipe is delicious and results in perfection. It does not need as much dedication as other bagel recipes you will find on the web– you do not need to dedicate 2 days to this. It’s a same-day homemade bagel recipe that comes together in 2 hours.

Bagel varieties

As a native New Yorker, I know there’s nothing better than a fresh bagel schmeared with cream cheese. I have a high standard when it comes to bagels and I don’t put unusual ingredients in mine.

In these bagels, you will not find any yogurt, maple-syrup, or ingredients you might not have in your pantry.

I no longer live in New York City, and I constantly crave the good old-fashioned bagels I grew up on– flavorful, modestly sweet, and chewy with soft, shiny crusts. These bagels are made the classic way: you boil them in water for a couple of minutes before you bake them. This is probably one of the most bizarre things a person can do to dough, but it just works.

This bagel recipe is a very altered adaptation of one from a cookbook, Ultimate Bread, that I borrowed over a decade ago from my aunt. It was my first introduction to homemade bagels. Over the years, this has become the best bagel recipe that I’ve ever made.

It doesn’t require unusual ingredients or require special equipment to make the recipe. These homemade chewy bagels are a treat fresh out of the oven, but when they’re toasted– oh, my! Can we just say that you’ll be making this bagel recipe time and time again?

Homemade New York-Style Bagels

After making this New York-Style bagel recipe on your own, you will feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. I know I always do! This will definitely give some competition to your local bagel shop- the recipe is that good (I mean, look at the comments!).

This homemade bagel recipe is so good that you’ll be impressed with yourself and totally satisfied after you take a nice bite out of one of these freshly made chewy bagels. So, if you mail order bagels from your favorite spot in New York City and pay $7.50 a bagel, save your money!

And if good bagels cannot be found where you live, worry no more; this recipe is infinitely adaptable, and the little bit of effort you put into making these bagels is well worth it. It’s time to get baking!

New York-Style Bagel with Cream Cheese

Homemade Bagel Recipe Ingredients

This homemade bagel recipe consists of four major parts– making and preparing the bagel dough, shaping and boiling the bagels, the bagel topping, and the things you’ll need to serve them with. Here’s what you’ll need:

The Bagel Dough: The Bagel Recipe Ingredients

• Granulated Sugar– this is used to slightly sweeten the bagel dough and to activate the yeast.
Feel free to use natural cane sugar here if you have it.

Active dry yeast– to help the bagel dough form and rise.

• Luke warm water– this needs to be between around 105ºF/ 40.5ºC and 115ºF / 46ºC; this will also help the yeast activate and bind the flour and other ingredients into a smooth, elastic bagel dough. On the rare occasion, you may need more water than listed in the recipe. The water called for in the recipe is a guide– your ultimate goal is to form a smooth bagel dough that is moist and firm.

• Bread flour – It contains a high protein content, perfect for making homemade bagels that are chewy. All-purpose flour works here too, they will be just as delicious– just not as chewy as ones made with bread flour (Read: New York-Style Bagel Recipe FAQ located below the recipe in this post for more information about flour alternatives for these homemade bagels).

• Fine-Grain Sea Salt– this adds the right amount of flavor to the bagels.

Resting Dough

Shaping and Boiling the Bagels

There are many methods in which you can shape a bagel; there is a more traditional method that many bagel shops use– you roll the bagel dough into logs and bind the ends together.

The method used here is done by simply poking the hole in the middle of taught rounds of bagel dough. Once that is done, the bagel rings are gently stretched to about a third of the diameter of the bagel.

After a short rest, each bagel is boiled. This gives the bagels their New York-Style signature delicious, chewy, and shiny crust.

Read more: New York-Style Bagel Recipe FAQ located below the recipe section in this post.

While you can opt to flavor your poaching liquid (there’s more information about this in the FAQ section), I keep it simple here and just use water and these come out perfect every time.

The Bagel Toppings

Favorite bagel toppings vary from person to person. Depending on the day, I like a good homemade everything bagel or a poppyseed bagel. I know many people who are partial to single toppings like minced onion or coarse salt. Whatever you like, definitely customize the toppings to match your tastes.

Everything bagel seasoning, minced fresh garlic, minced fresh onion or shallot, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, caraway seeds, coarse salt, cinnamon sugar- these are just some of the many topping options you can go with to customize the taste of your bagels.

What to Serve the Bagels With

A proper New York-Style bagel always requires a schmear. What is a “schmear” you ask? It’s a generous slather of cream cheese. It’s practically a requirement, especially when these homemade bagels come out of the oven. However, there are multiple ways you can serve them– all of which I have listed within this post.

How to Make Homemade New York-Style Bagels

First, proof the yeast. Proofing basically means you’re activating the yeast. To do this, you will need to add sugar and yeast into luke warm water. After about 5 minutes, the yeast will bubble up; this indicates that the mixture is ready to stir until everything is properly dissolved.

Kneading Dough for New York-Style Bagel Recipe

Then, mix the bagel dough together. You can you can opt to make the bagel dough by hand (which I highly recommend if you’re making this recipe for the firs time), or you can do so with a stand mixer fitted with the hook attachment, on the lowest setting (for about 5 to 6 minutes). If you’re making a double batch you might not be able to use your stand mixer for kneading– refer to your manufacturer’s instructions.

Dough in hands

When mixing the bagel dough, you may or may not need the entirety of the water called for in the recipe. You want the bagel dough to be moist and firm after it is mixed. Sometimes you may need more water, depending on humidity, brand of flour, your altitude, climate, amongst many other things.

Once the dough has come together and has been kneaded, place the bagel dough in an oiled bowl to rest for an hour (about 2 hours if you’re using less yeast) or covered overnight in the refrigerator.

Once the bagel dough has rested, you will need to deflate it. You will know it has rested enough when you poke the dough with your finger and the impression remains. If it bounces back, the bagel dough has not risen enough.

If you allowed the bagel dough to rest in the refrigerator, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 1/2 hour before working with it.

Once deflated, divide the dough. It should be divided into 8 equal portions. Feel free to use a scale or eyeball it. You do not have to be exacting about this; just make sure they’re roughly even so that all the bagels bake at the same time.

Rolling Dough Balls for Bagels

After that, form the bagel dough portions into rounds. Don’t use flour for this step. This is going to sound more complicated than it is, but hold your hand in a C shape while cupping a portion of dough.

Press the dough against the work surface (remember to avoid flouring it) and move your hand and the dough in a slow, circular motion. Allow the irregular edge of the dough to pull onto itself, while decreasing the pressure on top of the dough slightly until a perfectly smooth round ball forms.

Repeat this with the other portions. Have your eyes crossed? This probably does sound difficult at first, but essentially all you’re doing is making the dough round taut by pulling its sides in and keeping it round.

How to roll dough into rounds

Now, here comes the part when we shape the bagel dough! Working gently and firmly with the dough will result in perfectly smooth bagels.

Simply coat a finger with flour and gently press your finger into the center of each dough ball. Then you stretch the rings out to about a third of the diameter of the bagel and place them onto a prepared baking sheet.

Shaping Dough for Bagels

It’s time to boil the bagels. The bagels need a little rest in between shaping and boiling. So, while the unbaked bagels rest, bring a large pot of water to a bubbling boil.

Once it has reached a boil, lower the heat to a simmer. You’ll need a slotted spoon or a skimmer to place the bagels into the water. Some folks like to use small squares of parchment that they cut up before hand– do what is most comfortable for you.

Handling the uncooked dough with the utmost care will preserve their shape as well.

Boil the bagels and don’t overcrowd the water. Boil as many bagels as you can comfortably fit into the pot. They will puff up quite a bit, so do keep in mind they do need some breathing room.

Once in the water, the bagels will float on the top. Let them sit for 1 minute, then gently flip them over to boil for another minute on the other side.

This will give them a nice crust and their signature New York-Style chew. You can go a little bit longer on the poach, as well. This will give them a stronger crust and chew– more on that in the recipe.

After boiling them, top the bagels! This is the time when you can let your creativity run free. You can use any or all of the topping options listed in the recipe.

Often times I do a combination of toppings to make a delicious homemade everything bagel or I sometimes just keep it plain or stick to one ingredient on each bagel. Be creative!

Bagel Toppings

Once the bagels have been topped, bake them. Depending if your oven is calibrated or not (I like to keep an oven thermometer in mine to ensure it’s always accurate), you will need to bake the bagels between 20-25 minutes. Until they’re uniformly golden brown.

Now, here is the difficult part (not really). You’re supposed to let these cool for at least a few minutes once they’re out of the oven, until you can handle them. If you’re impatient like me, I brave through it, slice one open and schmear some cream cheese on mine right away.

Take a bite… Oooh, child!

Homemade New York-Style Bagel Serving Suggestions

There is no right or wrong way to eat a bagel, but I’ve listed a few ideas and classic options you would enjoy. A schmear is a classic.

A bagel with lox is also another classic. If you’re looking for a good breakfast idea, go the New York City deli route and make yourself an Egg and Cheese Bagel (bacon is preferred, but optional).

Bagel with cream cheese

Bagel with cream cheese– either plain, or your choice of flavored cream cheese. A schmear is a New York classic, and it’s so good.

Bagel with butter– especially with homemade butter or a delicious French butter. Heavenly.

Bagel with butter and jam– more specifically homemade butter and homemade strawberry jam– a match made in heaven. Highly recommended!

Bagel with lox– add a schmear of cream cheese, lox on top, a slice of fresh tomato, red onion, thinly sliced cucumbers, and some deliciously briney capers. Perfection.

Bagel with Avocado– a nice, healthy option. Toast the bagel, smash a ripe avocado on top, season to your liking, and serve it. Bacon is perfect on top, if you’re into that. Leftover guacamole is also delicious.

Bagel with Egg and Cheese– this is New York City deli / bodega-style, peeps. Toast the bagel. Butter it lightly. Make an egg and cheese omelet to your liking. Or fry an egg up, over easy, season it with salt and pepper, top it with cheese and bacon. Add ketchup, if you’re into it; add aioli, hot sauce, sriracha, sambal olek, or a combination thereof if you’d prefer that. Cut it in half. You’ll thank me later.

New York Deli Egg and Cheese on a Bagel

More Everyday Baking Recipes

Yield: Makes 8 medium-sized bagels

New York-Style Bagel Recipe

New York-Style Bagel Recipe

As a native New Yorker, I know there's nothing better than a fresh bagel schmeared with cream cheese. I no longer live in New York City, and I constantly crave the good old-fashioned bagels I grew up on– flavorful, modestly sweet, chewy ones with soft, shiny crusts.

These bagels are made the classic way: You boil them in water for a couple of minutes before you bake them. This is probably one of the most bizarre things a person can do to the dough, but it works. So, if good bagels cannot be found where you live, worry no more; this recipe is infinitely adaptable, and the little bit of effort you put into making these bagels is well worth it.

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Additional Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours

Ingredients

  • 2 teaspoons / 6 g active dry yeast
  • 4 ½ teaspoons / 19 g granulated sugar
  • 1 ¼ cups / 300 ml warm water (you may need ± ¼ cup /60 ml more)
  • 3 ½ cups / 440 g bread flour or high gluten flour (you may need up to 1/2 cup / 60g for kneading)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons / 6 g salt
  • Optional Toppings: (Refer to Notes)

Instructions

  1. In ½ cup /120ml of the warm water, pour in the sugar and yeast. Do not stir. Let it sit for five minutes, and then stir the yeast and sugar mixture until it all dissolves in the water.
  2. Mix the flour and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the middle and pour in the yeast and sugar mixture.
  3. Pour 1/3 cup / 80ml of warm water into the well. Mix and stir in the rest of the water (the scant 1/2 cup / 100ml that is remaining), as needed. Depending on where you live, you may need to add an additional couple tablespoons to about ¼ cup/60ml of water. You want a moist and firm dough after you have mixed it.
  4. On a floured countertop, knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Try working in as much flour as possible to form a firm and stiff dough.
  5. Lightly brush a large bowl with oil and turn the dough to coat. Cover the bowl with a damp dish towel. Let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, until the dough has doubled in size. Punch the dough down, and let it rest for another 10 minutes.
  6. Carefully divide the dough into 8 pieces (I used a scale to be extra precise, but it’s not necessary). Shape each piece into a round. Now, take a dough ball, and press it gently against the countertop (or whatever work surface you’re using) moving your hand and the ball in a circular motion pulling the dough into itself while reducing the pressure on top of the dough slightly until a perfect dough ball forms (as pictured). Repeat with 7 other dough rounds.
  7. Coat a finger in flour, and gently press your finger into the center of each dough ball to form a ring. Stretch the ring to about ⅓ the diameter of the bagel and place on a lightly oiled cookie sheet. Repeat the same step with the remaining dough.
  8. After shaping the bagels and placing them on the cookie sheet, cover with a damp kitchen towel and allow to rest for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 425ºF / 220ºC / Gas Mark 7.
  9. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Reduce the heat. Use a slotted spoon or skimmer to lower the bagels into the water. Boil as many as you are comfortable with boiling. Once the bagels are in, it shouldn’t take too long for them to float to the top (a couple seconds). Let them sit there for 1 minute, and then flip them over to boil for another minute. Extend the boiling times to 2 minutes each, if you’d prefer a chewier bagel (results will give you a more New York-Style bagel with this option).
  10. If you want to add toppings to your bagels, do so as you take them out of the water. Alternatively, you can use an egg wash to get the toppings to stick before baking the bagels. You may want to use the “Optional Toppings” listed above to top the bagels. Use just one topping, or a combination to make your own Everything Bagel Seasoning.
  11. Once all the bagels have boiled (and have been topped with your choice of toppings), transfer them to an oiled or parchment-lined baking sheet.
  12. Bake for 20 - 25 minutes, or until golden brown (I usually err on the side of 20 minutes).
  13. Cool on a wire rack (Or, if you’re impatient like I am, slice one of these babies open and spread on some of your favorite cream cheese or softened butter. Take a bite… Oh babyyy!)

Notes

Optional Toppings:

Caraway seeds, cinnamon sugar, coarse salt, minced fresh garlic, minced fresh onion, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or a mix of your favorite flavors.

Water measurement & similar concerns:

The recipe measurements for the water in the recipe is a guide; not all 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) will be used unless you need it. This is because of environmental factors (humidity, temperature, altitude, etc.) and the flour you are using. The most important thing when making the dough is to make sure it is homogenous and smooth– do not get caught up on the water measurement. If the dough is too firm, add in more water to ensure the dough is not dry and flaky– this has to be done when mixing the dough, not after you’ve allowed it to rise.

For all other concerns, please review past comments and refer to the FAQ below the recipe card for this recipe.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

8 Medium-Sized Bagels

Serving Size:

1 Bagel

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 228.4Trans Fat: 1.4gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 441mgCarbohydrates: 44.4gFiber: 1.7gSugar: 2.4gProtein: 6g

New York-Style Bagel Recipe: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The following is a comprehensive list of Frequently Asked Questions I receive about this New York-Style Bagel Recipe. You will find answers to your questions about Yeast, types of flour you can use, and everything you may need to keep in mind when it comes to preparing this homemade bagel recipe and storing the bagels properly.

The Yeast

• Can I use fresh yeast?

If you are unable to get active dry or instant yeast, you can use fresh yeast. The general rule of thumb is a ratio of 2.5:1, fresh to active dry. As the amount of active dry yeast used in the recipe is only 6 grams, you would need about 15 grams of fresh yeast.

When substituting fresh yeast, you may want to make a few adjustments to the method; fresh yeast does not need to be proofed like active dry yeast (the water, sugar, and yeast step will be unnecessary in this case), so do keep that in mind. But, as some have told me, they’ve simply substituted fresh yeast for the active dry yeast and followed the steps as directed without any issues.

• Can I use instant yeast for this bagels recipe?

You can. Substitute an equal amount. There’s no need to proof the yeast, so add the yeast to the flour with the sugar and jump straight to making the dough.

• I prefer less of a yeasty bread-like flavor, how can I achieve that?

You can reduce the amount of active dry yeast to 1 teaspoon in the recipe; do note that you will have to double the rising time to about 2 hours, instead.


Types of Flour

• What if I can’t find bread flour? Can I substitute regular (all-purpose) flour?

If you don’t have access to bread flour, it is okay to use all-purpose flour; they will still come out wonderfully. Alternatively, if you can find vital wheat gluten (it’s usually carried at health food stores), add 4 teaspoons to the all-purpose flour, and you should have a good substitute for the bread flour called for in the recipe.

• Can I make bagels with whole-wheat flour?

Yes, simply use half whole-wheat flour and half bread flour. If you like a milder tasting bagel, you can use white whole-wheat flour.

• Can I use spelt flour for bagels?

Yes. Use 2 cups / 255 g whole-wheat flour and 2 1/2 cups / 315 g sifted spelt four. Alternatively, readers have told me that they’ve made the bagels entirely out of spelt flour with great success.


Preparation

• How hot should the water be to proof the yeast?

The water should ideally be between 105F / 40.5C – 115F / 46C.

• Can I prepare the bagel dough in my bread maker or KitchenAid / stand mixer?

You can absolutely use either. For a stand mixer: use the hook attachment, and knead the dough on the lowest setting. Do this for 5 to 6 minutes until smooth and springy. If you’re making a double batch, you might not be able to use your stand mixer for kneading– refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.

• My bagels aren’t smooth. What did I do wrong?

There’s two factors that come into play here: the way the dough is handled and the water the dough is boiled in. Being gentle is crucial to the formation of smooth looking bagels. The less you handle it, the smoother it will be. If you squeeze the dough roughly, it’ll turn out wrinkly. Like many folks, I bake these bagels a lot, and some batches come out smooth and gorgeous, and on bad days some come out wrinkly. It’s all about how you handle the dough, but in the end- it always tastes amazing!

When it comes to boiling, make sure the water is not at a rolling boil; this will also prevent them from looking rough.

• How can I achiece an even shinier, sweeter bagel? Can I use barley malt or honey?

Yes! This will achieve a slightly sweeter and shinier product. Use about 1 teaspoon of barley malt in the dough and a generous tablespoon in the pot of boiling water. Because this is not easily found, I have not made it a required ingredient for the recipe. However, it does add a delicious taste. Alternatively, you can use a couple tablespoons of brown sugar and/ or honey in the boiling water to achieve a similar effect.

• Do the bagels need an eggwash before they go into the oven?

No, an egg wash is not necessary, though it does give a beautiful sheen to the bagels. The bagels will be just as beautiful and delicious if you forego the egg wash– this is especially a great option for vegans.

Once boiled, add toppings to the wet, unbaked bagels immediately so that the toppings stick.

• My bagels stuck to my pan. What can I do to prevent this in the future?

The original recipe calls for simply using an oiled pan (I’ve edited it). Like many folks, I am paranoid about things sticking to pans, so I use parchment paper or a silpat baking mat (as shown in this post). Feel free to do the same. I do oil the parchment just a bit to add a little bit of extra non-stick protection, but it’s not necessary.

• I live at high elevation, what can I do to ensure these come out properly?

I’ve been told by bakers who live at a higher elevation that this recipe works well as is, however I know that high-altitude baking, especially with yeast, can be a headache as dough tends to rise about 25 to 50 percent quicker than at lower altitudes, so do keep that in mind.

A sure-fire way to ensure that the finished product is not very dense would be to reduce the amount of yeast to 1 teaspoon and allow the dough to rise for the recommended time in the recipe. If the dough has doubled in size after 1-hour, it’s good to start working with. If not, continue to let it rise, checking on it every 15 minutes until doubled in size. Your altitude, brand of flour, humidity, and room temperature are factors that would make the rising times vary.

• Can I make the bagels bigger?

You can, just keep in mind that they will need longer to bake, so check on them every few minutes past the 20 minute mark until they are uniformly golden brown.


Make Ahead and Storage

• How can I make the dough ahead of time? Can I refrigerate the dough over night?

The best means of making the dough ahead of time would be to prepare it, cover its container with plastic wrap, and rest it over night in the refrigerator. This is called a cold-rise. I often do this and I love this method because it allows the dough to achieve a more complex flavor. If you are doing a cold rise, be sure to allow the dough about 1/2 hour to come to room temperature before working with it.

• Can I par-bake the bagels for later baking?

Yes, you can bake them until they are a faint gold tinge (about 10-15 minutes). Cool the par-baked bagels completely before storing them in a resealable bag to be stored in the freezer. To be bake from frozen, bake the bagels for an additional 10-15 minutes, until soft and golden brown.

• Can I freeze the bagels? Do they keep well?

Once cool, out of the oven, you can freeze the bagels without any issues. Slice them and then freeze them in a freezer-safe plastic bag, and let them thaw when needed. If you’re planning on toasting them, thawing them is unnecessary.

• How long do the bagels stay fresh for?

The bagels will keep in a resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Updated May 14th, 2020 – As one of the most popular recipes here and in my book, I’ve received many questions about this bagel recipe. For your convenience, I’ve updated the post with photos, more information, and answers to your Frequently Asked Questions.

Have another question? Leave a comment below!

1,475 Comments

  • Paulina
    January 8, 2021 at 12:11 pm

    Hi there,
    thanks for this amazing recipe! I made it last week for the 2nd time and it came out perfectly!
    I do have a question though – the first time I made them, I let it proof overnight and let it rest for 30-40min at room temperature before working it the next morning. The bagels came out delicious, but were really flat. Any idea what went wrong here?

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      January 8, 2021 at 5:03 pm

      Paulina- it could have been a series of things. Did the dough rise completely overnight? Did the bagels float when they were boiled? Was your yeast fresh? Was the dough properly kneaded? Did you punch the dough down after it came out of the refrigerator or after you let it sit for 1/2 hour?
      If you’d like, I can help troubleshoot with you via email (simply use the information provided on the contact page).

      Reply
      • Terry
        January 21, 2021 at 12:00 pm

        I have the same issue once the bagels cool they go flat still taste great but flat. I want high thigh bagels.. not toast bagels . I do all in one day.

        Reply
      • Cher
        March 25, 2021 at 6:32 am

        Should the dough be punched down after it came out of the refrigerator or after I let it sit for 1/2 hour? Thanks!

        Reply
  • Theresa
    January 9, 2021 at 5:49 am

    This Brooklyn girl says this recipe is the bomb. One comment, I add malt to the boiling water. I make a variety of toppings and deliver half dozen to my neighbors for Christmas! Being on the west coast, I have to explain the smear thing but they get it.. thanks for a great recipe I’m at 4800 ft in the Sierra Nv Mts. But after 3 tries, I got it down. Happy New Year!’

    Reply
  • LM
    January 10, 2021 at 8:38 pm

    Dough was a sticky mess. Need to bake them still. Hope they turn out

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      January 10, 2021 at 8:56 pm

      LM- I think you may have overlooked step 4 in the recipe which states “Try working in as much flour as possible to form a firm and stiff dough.” Bread baking is about feel and when the dough is too sticky, you do want to add more flour. When there’s too much flour, you want to add more water. I do hope the bagels come out well for you, though!

      Reply
  • Suesan
    January 14, 2021 at 8:27 am

    First attempt, absolutely delicious

    Reply
    • Annie
      February 3, 2021 at 3:06 pm

      Hi. Can this recipe be doubled by doubling all the ingredients or do some adjustments need to be made? We are a big family and 8 bagels only lasts a couple days. Wonderful recipe!

      Reply
      • kirsten kulick
        February 17, 2021 at 9:20 pm

        I will let you know hahaha I just doubled everything

        Reply
  • Vicky Kratz
    January 14, 2021 at 11:02 pm

    Love love love! I made 2 batches in 1 day and shared with friends. Wish I could post pictures of my awesome bagels. Thank you!

    Reply
  • Bobby
    January 15, 2021 at 12:56 pm

    Thanks for providing such an easy-to-follow recipe – these bagels are fast becoming a Sunday morning tradition for our family!
    I’m sure one or both of these questions have probably been answered but nonetheless; 1. at what stage would it be best to add frozen blueberries to the dough (or should the blueberries be at room temp before adding)? 2. I’ve seen some recipes utilise a tray of water in the bottom of the oven to help create steam – do you think this is necessary?

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      January 16, 2021 at 3:39 am

      Bobby – I would have them at room temperature. You can just simply put the frozen blueberries in a sieve and run them under some warmish water for a little less than a minute, and that should do the trick too. Shake them in the sieve to get out as much excess water as possible. And just keep in mind that you will more than likely need to add extra flour to the dough during kneading.

      Regarding The tray of water: it’s not necessary since you’re already boiling the bagels.

      Reply
  • Allison
    January 15, 2021 at 2:36 pm

    Do you have any suggestions for how to use this dough to make blueberry or cinnamon raisin bagels? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      January 16, 2021 at 3:35 am

      Allison- it’s nothing complicated, you can simply mix them into the dough. If you’re using fresh blueberries, you may need to add extra flour as you’re kneading the dough.

      Reply
      • Allison
        January 17, 2021 at 4:01 am

        Hi Kamran,
        I figured as much, I was just wondering if you had a recommendation as to what point in the mixing I should add them. I know some recipes have you mix the dough first, then introduce the add-ins. When would you mix them in? Also, how much blueberries or cinnamon/raisins would you use?
        Thanks!
        Allison

        Reply
        • Kamran Siddiqi
          January 17, 2021 at 4:16 am

          Allison- I add them as I am mixing the dough together. A generous cupful of either blueberries or raisins should work. I have a more exacting recipe for both of those flavors in my book. I’ll work on a post to share the exact recipes for those as many people keep asking! :)

          Reply
          • Allison
            January 18, 2021 at 4:41 am

            Thank you so much! I wasn’t sure if the sugar or moisture content would affect the dough if they were mixed in with all of the other ingredients. I thought maybe you added them during the final kneading before the rise (like when using a bread machine).

          • Kamran Siddiqi
            January 18, 2021 at 2:41 pm

            Allison- the moisture content may alter the dough, but that’s why you’re adding in flour during the kneading process. Hope that helps!

    • Kayley
      March 14, 2021 at 4:24 pm

      These are simply the best! This was my second time using this recipe and I love how simple it is.
      I boil mine for 1.5 minutes and too the with everything but the bagel seasoning and they’re delicious!
      I could easily eat two in one sitting!

      Reply
  • Cailie B.
    January 15, 2021 at 5:53 pm

    I tried making an egg bagel recipe from my moms 30 yr old Betty crocker cook book and they were lets say a disappointment. Were not at all like I was expecting. My family stilll are them because we love anything with carbs in it but they lasted a day too long than normal. But girllll your bagels literally tasted like I went to a professional. So thank you will be using this for years to come. Ps made them an hour ago and there all gone

    Reply
  • Ces
    January 16, 2021 at 11:20 pm

    Can I use instant yeast and just add them with the flour? Or active dry yeast is better for this recipe?

    Reply
  • Christina
    January 17, 2021 at 2:42 am

    Can I let the dough rise for more than an hour while I run errands, this usually takes about two and a half hours, or will it ruin the dough and outcome?

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      January 17, 2021 at 4:09 am

      Christina, I would just do a cold rise instead.

      Reply
    • Iris Miller
      January 29, 2021 at 12:43 am

      I made these bagels last night, all gone! I have been ordered by family to make more bagels!
      I need the correct instructions for doubling the recipe please. My family loves your recipe and I make my own “everything” topping.
      Eight bagels are not enough four adult piggies.

      Reply
  • Megan
    January 17, 2021 at 10:35 am

    I’ve just made these bagels and they look great. Only problem is they’re not as soft and fluffy as I had hoped. A bit crusty on the outside. I baked them at 220 for 20 minutes, maybe my oven is running hot?

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      January 17, 2021 at 8:36 pm

      Megan- that is likely. You might want to check them around 10 minutes and rotate the pan and let them bake for an extra 5-8 minutes. But I highly recommend investing in an oven thermometer so you can gauge how much you might have to adjust the temperature whilst baking.

      Reply
  • Monika
    January 17, 2021 at 6:35 pm

    The recipe sounds great. I left the country a couple years ago and crave the bagels beyond believe! I would like to know what is the baking temperature?

    Thank you

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      January 17, 2021 at 8:38 pm

      Monika, the baking temperature is located in the recipe card.

      Reply
  • Hattie
    January 18, 2021 at 4:16 am

    Amazing, thank you!

    Reply
  • Ingrid Reynolds
    January 18, 2021 at 2:11 pm

    Hello! We have made these bagels twice and it’s a terrific recipe. We will continue to improve our technique. My college-aged daughter wanted to make bagels today and noticed in the nutritional information for these bagels a good amount of trans fats per bagel. I am confused. There is no oil in the recipe! Could you explain why there are trans fats/educate me? Thank you very much!

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      January 18, 2021 at 2:59 pm

      Ingrid, the nutritional information provided is an automatic calculation that is an estimate provided by one of the largest verified nutrition databases, Nutritionix. The recipe calls for the use of oil in steps 5 and 11 (the latter being optional because you can use parchment paper to bake the bagels), which explains why there is a trans fat reading in the nutritional data. To reduce that number, simply use a healthier oil with little to no trans fat.

      Reply
  • Annie
    January 19, 2021 at 1:45 pm

    First time making bagels, I made them as directed and they came out great. My shaping and stretching technique needs some work (smile). I added poppy seeds to half and sesame seeds to the rest. They were done at about 15 minutes (internal temp of 190°F). The recipe is a keeper! Would love a NY style pumpernickel bagel recipe.

    Reply
  • Annie
    January 22, 2021 at 1:55 am

    Thank you for a wonderful recipe! My first try at making bagels was a few weeks ago and your recipe was the first and only one I have tried. I’ve made at least 6-7 batches in these few weeks and they all tasted great. I made Asiago Cheese bagels, cinnamon raisin, plain, and Everything bagels. Everyone in my family loves them and are surprised at the chewiness and slight crunch. I’m pretty lazy, so I make the dough and let it rise in my breadmaker. I’ve used both bread flour and AP flour and they come out great. However, bread flour definitely makes for a chewier bagel.

    Reply
  • Mommyof4
    January 22, 2021 at 11:39 am

    Can these be made with gluten free flours by chance?

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      January 23, 2021 at 4:14 am

      Yes! I know a few people in previous comments have successfully done so with gluten-free flour.

      Reply
      • Celiac Child
        February 3, 2021 at 11:57 am

        I only see this post about making these gluten free. Is the four ratio the same? Does anything else need to be added? Any other tips?

        Reply
  • Samantha
    January 22, 2021 at 9:42 pm

    These bagels are amazing! I’ve made them so many times for my family and they always finish them off within a day. I keep running into a problem of them cracking once they are baking. I read through the FAQs, and you mentioned living in high altitude to possibly lessen the amount of yeast used if dense. However, it didn’t mention cracking. Could the amount of yeast be contributing to the cracks formed while baking? As I do live in high altitude. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      January 23, 2021 at 4:32 am

      Samantha- So glad you like the recipe! Unfortunately, from what I know about high-altitude baking, breads, cakes, and even pastries have a tendency to crack, dry-out, and deflate around 3,000 ft (914 m).

      Because this is a lean dough, not many adjustments usually need to be made. However, I would keep the following in mind:

      • When kneading, avoid adding too much flour. You don’t want your dough to be dry; the higher altitude doesn’t help with this as the air is drier. You want the dough to be a bit moist.

      • For proofing, try doing a cold rise. If you’re in a bind for time, allow the dough to rise in the coolest room in your house. Because of your high altitude, the dough will rise quicker. A cool place is best in order to slow the fermentation process down.

      • Use plastic wrap during the rising process– because the air is drier at higher altitudes, you want to ensure the dough stays moist. Plastic wrap will help prevent the dough from drying out and forming a crackly skin.

      I hope that helps, and thank you for such a great question! I’ll add it to the FAQ!

      Reply
  • Pam
    January 24, 2021 at 4:43 pm

    This is my first time trying bagels and they turned out delicious! Soft on the inside and chewy on the outside. Maybe not picture perfect but I’m looking forward to practicing! Thank you for taking the time to explain each step. The directions were easy to follow along with the pictures! ❤️

    Reply
  • Jenni
    January 25, 2021 at 8:17 am

    This recipe is amazing. I couldn’t believe how easy it is to make good bagels!
    Yesterday I made them for the second time, this time making a double recipe.
    I topped some of them with cheese which baked into a nice golden crunch cheese goodness on top.
    This is one of my favorite recipe finds for sure. Thank you!

    Reply
  • Brian
    January 25, 2021 at 2:34 pm

    Hi there, I noticed the water in the list of ingredients do not match the water in the step by step instructions. Would the accurate one be 200ml or 300ml?

    Reply
  • Lindsay
    January 27, 2021 at 6:33 am

    Love, love, LOVE this recipe! If I double the ingredients to make a double batch, how would you suggest cutting the dough before shaping?

    Reply
  • Kaity
    January 30, 2021 at 2:44 pm

    I’m confused about the weight vs measurement. When I measure the salt, 6g of salt is less than 1 tsp. Same with the yeast–2 tsp of yeast is more like 10g, so which do I go with? The measurement to the weight?

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      January 30, 2021 at 9:02 pm

      Kaity, go with the weighed measurements. The issue with volume measurements is that there is not a perfect standard for measuring cups and measuring spoons. How much they’ll each hold varies from brand to brand, whereas a gram is always a gram.

      Reply
  • Gina
    February 4, 2021 at 7:02 pm

    Great recipe! I’m having trouble shaping them nicely. I cut up the dough into 8 sections that come out triangular shaped but when I try to roll each section into a ball the dough doesn’t stick together nicely. Any suggestions?

    Reply
  • Marcela
    February 5, 2021 at 11:46 pm

    I didn’t grow up with bagels, and have a very special relationship with Czech rye bread. Last Friday night I made both the bagels and the rye bread for next day’s breakfast feast. I was only going to “taste” the bagels, but ended up inhaling 3, without even touching the rye bread. This recipe is fantastic. I just made another batch tonight. This time I’m not even taking a bite so that I don’t devour them all.

    Reply
  • Charan
    February 7, 2021 at 10:17 pm

    This was my first time making bagels and they turned out amazing!!! So delicious. Thank you for sharing!! :)

    Reply
  • Selinda
    February 8, 2021 at 5:46 am

    I made these and they came out beautiful! I followed the recipe exactly and their taste was just like the bagels in NY. This recipe is a keeper.

    Reply
  • CT
    February 9, 2021 at 6:52 am

    Tried your recipe and it turned out great, thanks for sharing! Do you know if the dough can sit in the fridge for 2 nights?

    Reply
  • Michelle
    February 12, 2021 at 3:44 pm

    These are soooo easy and taste absolutely amazing! Definitely recommend this recipe. I love how basic the ingredients are. So often there’s always that one ingredient that you think “really? Who has that on hand?” This is not one of those recipes. I had everything I needed. I topped a few of mine with random spices that I had on hand and even they turned out great 😊

    Reply
  • JOE
    February 12, 2021 at 4:34 pm

    I enjoy green olives with my bagels and schmear. Is it OK to add chopped green olives to the dough to infuse the flavor? How about blue berries, etc.?

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      February 13, 2021 at 12:56 am

      Joe- Yes you can add olives or blueberries to the dough!

      Reply
  • J
    February 13, 2021 at 2:26 pm

    Is it possible to add cheese to the mix? And blueberries ? Or would that need a different recipe all together? I am excited to make these !

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      February 14, 2021 at 8:32 pm

      J, yes and yes! You won’t need another recipe; you can simply mix them in. Just keep in mind that you may need a little more flour as the blueberries can make the dough a bit sticky.

      Reply
  • Sue Lea
    February 14, 2021 at 7:16 am

    Im a novice baker living in south west England who has only ever obtained decent bagels when visiting London. I have been disappointed by shop bought bagels in Cornwall. I tried this recipe about a month ago and WOW! I have made the bagels at least weekly since – every time they turn out perfectly – they are even getting prettier to look at! I always WEIGH everything and use strong white bread flour and just follow the recipe – PERFECTION! Thankyou so much for the share – these bagels really are the business!

    Reply
  • Lori
    February 15, 2021 at 6:09 pm

    First time bagel maker. These had really great taste but were chewy without the crunch. They looked “golden brown” at 20 minutes. I assume a longer bake would take care of this problem?

    Reply
  • Rachel
    February 17, 2021 at 12:15 pm

    Have made these dozens of times. Always fantastic. Even better when using the weight measurements. Thank you! However, the last time I made them, the bagels cooked well but the cheese got overcooked (had never happened before). Any suggestions?

    Reply
  • Sarah
    February 19, 2021 at 3:46 pm

    Have you ever made these with a gluten free flour?

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      February 20, 2021 at 11:57 pm

      Sarah, yes! People have reported they have very successfully done so in the comments!

      Reply
  • Nick
    February 22, 2021 at 4:03 am

    Mine came out a tad wrinkly, BUT they tasted divine! Did a few on parchment paper and a few on an oiled tray, and I prefer the ones on the oiled tray for a gorgeous brown crust at the bottom two. Wolfed down two with smoked salmon and cream cheese and can’t wait to tuck into the others! :-D

    Reply
  • Deb
    February 22, 2021 at 11:55 am

    Thank you for taking the time to include all of this useful and helpful information! I appreciate all of your hard work and because of it, I feel like now I can jump right in and get to bagel making!

    Reply
  • Kim
    February 26, 2021 at 3:26 pm

    Hi Kamran,

    I have always been a little intimidated by homemade bagels, but I think I’m ready to give these a try! Thank you for being so detailed with each of the steps! :)

    Reply
  • Emily
    February 28, 2021 at 12:48 pm

    Came out perfectly on the first try, even after adding jalapenos and onions and cheese to it a little too late haha. Great recipe, the texture was *chefs kiss* both on the inside and out! Will definitely make more variations using this recipe in the future.

    Reply
  • Julie
    March 2, 2021 at 10:46 am

    I have made 6 batches of your bagels now and my family loves them. I have been wondering about how much to use when it comes to cinnamon and raisins if making cinnamon raisin bagels and if more sugar is added. I saw someone else had asked and that a link was mentioned but i couldn’t find one as of yet.

    Reply
  • Shannon
    March 2, 2021 at 12:44 pm

    Thank you for the detailed instructions. I just made these to surprise my son for his 21st birthday. He LOVED them! Great instructions. I suggest reading all the way through them before starting. The bagels turned out great! They take time, but they were not complicated. Hooray to NY Bagels in San Diego, California!

    Reply
  • Marianne
    March 7, 2021 at 11:47 am

    Best bagel recipe ever…..and I have tried many. So impressed that I just bought your book. Can you please let me know how to adjust the recipe for pumpernickle bagels?

    Reply
  • Emily
    March 7, 2021 at 12:33 pm

    Can’t recall if I left a comment the first time I made these, but I’ve gotta make sure I leave one to let people know how awesome this recipe is! I couldn’t find my bread flour the first time I made this (I had knocked the container over), so I thought I ended up unintentionally using only whole wheat. The bagels were dense and skinny but still delicious.

    Yesterday, I was able to actually follow the recipe as it was meant haha! As you suggested, I did half bread flour and half whole wheat. The bagels came out nice and thick, and they taste better than store bought! Thank you for the recipe!

    Reply
  • Nils
    March 7, 2021 at 6:52 pm

    I can’t thank you enough for this gem. Great instructions and delicious result! Greetings from Brazil

    Reply
  • Mary
    March 10, 2021 at 12:59 pm

    We have been making these bagels and they turn out great – every time!!! When the entire family is home, eight bagels are just not enough. It’s known in my house that I cannot make double batches of anything. They are always a little off.

    Are there any tricks to doubling this recipe?

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      March 13, 2021 at 11:12 am

      Mary, you might not be able to knead the dough in a stand mixer if you double the recipe. However, you can simply double the recipe, though I do recommend the method I mention in the FAQs section below the recipe–use 1 teaspoon of active dried yeast per batch (in this case: 2 teaspoons). It might take a little bit longer for the dough to rise, but the bagels will be phenomenal!

      Reply
  • Clem
    March 11, 2021 at 1:27 am

    A friend recommended I try this recipe and – having dim memories of trying to make bagels years ago and failing hard – I was a bit sceptical about how easy it would really be. Happy to say they came out fantastic first try! Your tips on each step are really useful and make it pretty foolproof. I made cinammon sugar, sesame, and sea salt ones – next batch I’m going to experiment with the flavours a little more! Thanks so much :)

    Reply
  • Riley
    March 11, 2021 at 1:41 pm

    Whenever I’ve baked ‘everything’ bagel spice, the garlic within it burns, giving the bread/bagel a bitter/burnt flavor. How can I avoid this – especially for long/high cook times like this one?

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      March 13, 2021 at 11:03 am

      Riley, you might want to raise the oven rack in the oven, you can also loosely tent foil over the tops of the bagels once the bagels start to get a little color in the oven.

      Reply
  • Pamela
    March 12, 2021 at 12:34 pm

    Was dying for a bagel but wasn’t getting food from outside because of the pandemic. Found this recipe online and I cannot stop making these bagels. This recipe is easy and produces delicious, chewy bagels that rival a very popular chain that is only 5 minutes from my house. I don’t think they will ever get my money again. Making bagels from your recipe is easy and fun, not to mention scrumptious!

    Reply
  • Dori
    March 20, 2021 at 8:05 am

    As NYC transplants living in CT, we have had a very difficult time finding decent bagels. I have made this recipe 3 times and it’s amazing. In fact, my food critic husband said they are better than some of the best NYC bagels we’ve had. The key is baking them on the pizza stone.
    Have you tried cinnamon raisin bagels using the same dough recipe?

    Reply
  • SC
    March 21, 2021 at 10:03 pm

    I am slightly confused by your comment about sweeter bagel result. I like a bagel with just a touch of sweetness. Not sure if your original recipe has noticeable sweetness? Can’t tell by measurements. In response to a sweetness question, you wrote, “Alternatively, you can use a couple tablespoons of brown sugar and/ or honey in the boiling water to achieve a similar effect.”
    Are you indicating 2 T brown sugar should go into dough and if you want, add additional sugar or honey to the boiling water? Or just sweeten water with sugar or honey? Thank you.

    Reply
    • Kamran Siddiqi
      March 22, 2021 at 7:18 pm

      SC, it’s just a touch of sweetness–nothing comparable to a Hawaiian roll or anything that would turn these into a dessert bread! You’re not adding any additional sugar into the dough, just in the water.

      Reply
      • SC
        March 23, 2021 at 1:36 pm

        So no extra sugar in dough, just in boiling water? Will try today!

        Reply
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