There’s something irresistibly magical about the smell of freshly baked Plain Homemade Bagels wafting through your kitchen. As those golden beauties rise in the oven, you can practically taste the perfect combination of chewy, puffy goodness and that slight crust that brings the cozy comfort of a bagel shop right to your home. You can imagine pulling apart the warm dough, the steam escaping, revealing a soft, inviting interior just waiting to be slathered with cream cheese or topped with your favorite spreads.
Jump to:
- <strong>Ingredients for Plain Homemade Bagels</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Plain Homemade Bagels</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting Plain Homemade Bagels Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch to Plain Homemade Bagels</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating Plain Homemade Bagels</strong>
- FAQs About Plain Homemade Bagels
- What are Plain Homemade Bagels?
- How do I know if my Plain Homemade Bagels are done?
- Can I freeze Plain Homemade Bagels?
- What do I serve with Plain Homemade Bagels?
- Conclusion for Plain Homemade Bagels
Now, let me take you back to the last time I made these treasure troves of doughy delight. It was a Sunday morning, the sun shining through the kitchen window, and I decided that instant coffee and stale toast just wouldn’t cut it this time. As I rolled and shaped each bagel, I couldn’t help but grin—there’s just something joyful in transforming simple ingredients into a dish that feels like a hug from home, perfect for lazy brunches or an unexpected lunch. Get ready, because you will savor every bite of your homemade bagels!
Why You'll Love This Plain Homemade Bagels
- Transforming simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Plain Homemade Bagels
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Plain Homemade Bagels:
2 cups plus 2 tablespoons lukewarm water – Make sure the water is at 110°F (43°C) to wake up the yeast.
1 tablespoon molasses – This adds a subtle sweetness and helps give the bagels their beautiful glaze.
2 teaspoons active dry yeast – Choose fresh yeast for the best rise in your dough.
7 cups bread flour – High-protein flour like bread flour is key for that perfect chewiness.
2 teaspoons Morton kosher salt – This brings out all the flavors and balances the dough beautifully.
cornmeal – For dusting the baking sheets, giving your bagels a lovely texture on the bottom.
How to Make Plain Homemade Bagels
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Plain Homemade Bagels:
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm water, molasses, and yeast. Whisk until the yeast has dissolved and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s all foamy—yep, that’s the good stuff.
Step 2: Combine Flour and Salt
In your stand mixer bowl, whisk together the bread flour and kosher salt. This is where the magic starts to happen. Slowly add the yeast mixture to the flour while mixing on low speed until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Set your mixer to medium speed and knead that dough for about 10 minutes until it’s flexible and bouncy. It should be smooth and give you a tiny workout—no gym necessary!
Step 4: First Rise
Once the dough is ready, roll it into a tight ball, place it in a clean bowl, and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area until doubled in size, which will take about 60 to 90 minutes. Sneak some peeks, but don’t poke it too much; we want it to rise to the occasion!
Step 5: Shaping the Bagels
After rising, punch down the dough a few times to release the gas. Divide your dough into 12 pieces, each weighing about 4 ounces. Roll each piece into a ball, then push your finger through the center to create a hole. Gently stretch it out until it’s about 4 inches across—you’re looking for that classic bagel shape.
Step 6: Overnight Proofing
Place your shaped bagels on a baking sheet dusted with cornmeal, leaving about 2 inches between each one. Cover them with plastic wrap and let them proof in the refrigerator overnight for 12 to 18 hours. This step is crucial for flavor and texture; patience is key!
Step 7: Boiling and Baking
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with pizza stones on both upper and lower racks for at least 30 minutes. Fill a large pot halfway with water and bring it to a boil. Stir in some molasses until the water turns a dark brown. Gently lower two bagels into the pot at a time, boiling them for 30 seconds on each side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let them cool on a wire rack.
Transfer the cornmeal from the baking sheets to the hot pizza stones once the water is boiling. Place the bagels on the stones, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 15 to 19 minutes until they’re golden brown and shiny on top. Let cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
And there you have it! Your homemade bagels, ready to dazzle friends and family (or just you, on a solitary snack adventure). It’s like you just dropped the mic on the breakfast scene. Enjoy every chewy, delicious bite!
You Must Know About Plain Homemade Bagels
- This showstopping Plain Homemade Bagels delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Plain Homemade Bagels Cooking Process
To achieve perfect Plain Homemade Bagels, start by preparing your dough while allowing your ingredients to reach room temperature. Once mixed and kneaded, let it rise before shaping and boiling, giving you a head start on your kitchen masterpiece.
Add Your Touch to Plain Homemade Bagels
Feel free to customize your Plain Homemade Bagels with toppings like everything bagel seasoning, garlic powder, or sesame seeds. You can even experiment with different types of flour like whole wheat or rye for unique flavor profiles that suit your taste.
Storing & Reheating Plain Homemade Bagels
Store your Plain Homemade Bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them and reheat in the toaster or oven for a quick, crispy treat that tastes fresh-baked every time.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Plain Homemade Bagels
- This professional-quality Plain Homemade Bagels relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
The first time I made these Plain Homemade Bagels, my family couldn’t believe I had pulled them off. Watching them devour each bagel was a moment I won’t soon forget. I’ll always cherish their happy faces munching away!
FAQs About Plain Homemade Bagels
What are Plain Homemade Bagels?
Plain Homemade Bagels are deliciously chewy, slightly sweet, and wonderfully versatile bread rings. Made with simple ingredients like flour, water, yeast, and molasses, these bagels stand out for their unique texture, obtained through boiling before baking. They can be enjoyed on their own, topped with cream cheese, or used as a base for countless sandwiches. Mastering the art of bagel-making at home allows you to create a fresh, delightful breakfast or snack that is far superior to store-bought options.
How do I know if my Plain Homemade Bagels are done?
To determine if your Plain Homemade Bagels are done baking, look for a golden brown color on top and a shiny crust. The internal texture should be pliable yet firm, with a slight chewiness. A quick tap on the bottom of a bagel will produce a hollow sound if it’s cooked thoroughly. The baking time usually ranges from 15 to 19 minutes at 450°F, but keep an eye on them towards the end to achieve your preferred finish.
Can I freeze Plain Homemade Bagels?
Absolutely! Freezing is a wonderful way to preserve your Plain Homemade Bagels for later enjoyment. Once they are completely cool, simply wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to indulge, reheat them straight from the freezer. For a crispy finish, pop them in the toaster or the oven until warmed through for that fresh-baked experience.
What do I serve with Plain Homemade Bagels?
Plain Homemade Bagels pair excellently with a myriad of toppings! Cream cheese is a classic choice but don’t limit yourself. Try avocado, smoked salmon, or sliced turkey for a satisfying sandwich experience. You can also add sliced cucumbers or tomatoes for freshness. For something sweet, spread some butter or jam on a warm bagel. The options are endless, making these bagels perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any meal of the day.
Conclusion for Plain Homemade Bagels
In conclusion, Plain Homemade Bagels are a delightful addition to any meal, offering great taste and versatility. The process may seem intricate, but with a bit of patience and practice, you will master this delightful recipe. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or saved for later, your homemade bagels will surely impress. So gather your ingredients and give these Plain Homemade Bagels a try; you won’t regret it!
Delicious Plain Homemade Bagels Recipe You Can Master Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add warm water, 1 tablespoon molasses, and yeast to a small bowl, and whisk together until dissolved. Allow the mixture to sit until it’s foamy on top, about 5 minutes.
- Whisk together flour and salt in a stand mixer bowl. Combine the water and yeast mixture with the flour on low speed, until a shaggy dough forms.
- Increase speed to medium and knead the dough for 10 minutes until it is flexible and bouncy to the touch.
- Roll the dough into a tight ball, place it in a clean bowl, and cover with plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place until doubled in size, about 60–90 minutes.
- Prepare two baking sheets generously sprinkled with cornmeal.
- Punch down the risen dough a few times to release the gas. Divide the dough into pieces weighing 4 ounces.
- Roll each piece into a ball, then push through the center to make a hole. Stretch the bagel out to about 4 inches across.
- Place bagels about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets, cover with plastic wrap, and allow to proof overnight in the refrigerator for 12–18 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) with pizza stones on the upper and lower racks for at least 30 minutes.
- Fill a large pot or dutch oven about halfway full with water and bring to a boil. Add molasses until the water is dark brown.
- Remove the bagels from the refrigerator and gently place them into the boiling water, boiling for 30 seconds on each side. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack to cool.
- Transfer the cornmeal from the baking sheets to the hot pizza stones. Place the bagels on the stones about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 15–19 minutes, until the bagels are golden brown and shiny on top. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
