Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsBenchwarmers BagelsPlain Bagel Recipe

Plain Bagel Recipe

Time2h
Serves8

Make Plain Bagel Recipe in just 2h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

Toppings (Optional)

Method

Dough Preparation

  1. 1

    Activate the Yeast

    In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 110°F/43°C) and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.

  2. 2

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt.

  3. 3

    Combine Ingredients

    Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the activated yeast mixture and vegetable oil. Mix until a dough begins to form.

  4. 4

    Knead the Dough

    Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  5. 5

    First Rise

    Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Shaping and Boiling

  1. 6

    Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. 7

    Shape the Bagels

    Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your finger and stretch it to form a bagel shape.

  3. 8

    Second Rise

    Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a damp cloth, and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.

  4. 9

    Boil the Bagels

    In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Gently drop the bagels into the boiling water (2-3 at a time) and boil for about 1-2 minutes on each side.

  5. 10

    Remove and Cool

    Remove the bagels from the water with a slotted spoon and place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.

Baking

  1. 11

    Add Toppings (if desired)

    If using, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds over the wet bagels before baking.

  2. 12

    Bake the Bagels

    Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

  3. 13

    Cool and Serve

    Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

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