Real Homemade Bagels

Recipe View Combine Dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine water, bread flour, sugar, salt, vegetable oil, and instant yeast. Mix on low speed for approximately 8 minutes, until a smooth, elastic dough forms. Windowpane Test: To ensure proper gluten development, pinch off a small piece of dough, flour your fingers, and gently stretch it. If it tears easily, continue kneading for a few more minutes. A well-developed dough should stretch into a thin, translucent membrane (the 'windowpane'). (Total time: 10 minutes)

Recipe View First Rise: Lightly oil a large bowl. Transfer the dough to the bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and a clean kitchen towel. Let rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size. (Total time: 2 hours)

Recipe View Shape Bagels: Punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured work surface. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces, depending on your desired bagel size. Roll each piece into a 6-inch rope. Join the ends of each rope to form a circle, pinching to seal. Repeat with the remaining dough. Allow the shaped bagels to rest for 15 minutes. (Total time: 30 minutes)

Recipe View Prepare for Boiling and Baking: Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Prepare small plates with poppy seeds, sesame seeds, and dried onion flakes for topping. (Total time: 10 minutes)

Recipe View Boil Bagels: Bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. If desired, add honey to the boiling water for a touch of sweetness and a richer color. Gently drop 2-3 bagels into the boiling water at a time. Boil for 1 minute per side, or until they puff up and rise to the surface. Remove the bagels with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheet. (Total time: 15 minutes)

Recipe View Add Toppings: While the bagels are still wet, dip the tops into your desired toppings (poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried onion flakes). Arrange the bagels, topping-side up, on the baking sheet. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt, if desired. (Total time: 5 minutes)

Recipe View Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. (Total time: 20 minutes)

Recipe View Cool: Transfer the bagels to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and enjoying. (Total time: 20 minutes)