Plain Bagel recipe served on a plate, by Panera
RecipesPaneraPlain Bagel

Plain Bagel Recipe

inspired by

@panera

Oct 19 2025

2h

Serves 8

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Recipe information

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

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Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

Boiling Water

Topping (optional)

Preparation

Dough Preparation

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water (1.5 cups) and sugar (1 tbsp). Sprinkle the active dry yeast (2 tbsp) over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.

2. Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour (4 cups) and salt (2 tsp). Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour mixture along with vegetable oil (1 tbsp). Stir until a dough begins to form.

3. Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.

4. Let the Dough Rise

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

Bagel Shaping

5. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

6. Shape the Bagels

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then use your finger to make a hole in the center, stretching it to about 2 inches in diameter.

Boiling and Baking

7. Boil the Bagels

In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the baking soda (0.25 cups) to the water. Carefully drop the shaped bagels into the boiling water, cooking for about 1-2 minutes on each side.

8. Bake the Bagels

Using a slotted spoon, remove the bagels from the boiling water and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, sprinkle coarse sea salt on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

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