Perfect New York Style Bagel Recipe
There’s something undeniably special about a freshly baked New York-style bagel. Their chewy texture, shiny exterior, and delicious flavor make them a breakfast classic that can’t be beaten. This Perfect New York Style Bagel Recipe will guide you through the process of creating these delightful bagels right in your own kitchen. Whether you enjoy them plain, with cream cheese, or piled high with toppings, you’ll find that homemade bagels are worth every minute spent in the kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe combines the right balance of ingredients and techniques to achieve that classic New York bagel texture. The use of bread flour gives the bagels their characteristic chewiness, while the boiling process before baking ensures a shiny crust. This method is time-tested and has been perfected to create bagels that are not only authentic but also incredibly satisfying to make.
Ingredient Breakdown
- 1 cup warm water – Activates the yeast for a fluffy interior.
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast – Helps the dough rise quickly.
- 4 teaspoons sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness and aids in browning.
- 3 cups bread flour – Provides the necessary gluten for that chewy texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough structure.
- 1 tablespoon warm water – Used in the boiling solution for extra steam during baking.
- 4 tablespoons flour – For dusting and preventing sticking.
- 1 teaspoon oil – Keeps the dough moist and easy to handle.
- 1 tablespoon sugar – Added to the boiling water for a subtle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Enhances the color and texture of the bagel crust.
Equipment & Tools
- Mixing bowl – For combining ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate quantities.
- Dough scraper – Helps in handling the dough with ease.
- Large pot – For boiling the bagels to achieve that perfect texture.
- Baking sheet – Where the bagels will bake in the oven.
- Parchment paper – Prevents sticking on the baking sheet.
- Cooling rack – Allows the bagels to cool evenly after baking.
How to Prepare Perfect New York Style Bagel Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water and 2 teaspoons of instant yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Then, add 4 teaspoons of sugar, 3 cups of bread flour, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
Step 3: First Rise
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Bagels
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then poke a hole through the center with your finger to shape it into a bagel. Gently stretch the hole to about 1-2 inches in diameter.
Step 5: Second Rise
Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them with a damp cloth and let them rest for another 30 minutes.
Step 6: Boil the Bagels
In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Carefully drop the bagels into the boiling water, a few at a time, and boil for about 1 minute on each side. This step is crucial for that authentic New York bagel texture.
Step 7: Bake the Bagels
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Transfer the boiled bagels back to the baking sheet. Brush the tops with a little warm water and sprinkle with extra flour if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or store for later!
International Equivalents
- 1 cup = 240 ml
- 1 tablespoon = 15 ml
- 1 teaspoon = 5 ml
- 3 cups bread flour = 360 grams
- 1 teaspoon salt = 6 grams
What I Learned Testing
- Consistency is key. Ensure your dough is not too sticky or dry for best results.
- Boiling the bagels is a non-negotiable step; it truly changes the texture.
- Experimenting with toppings can elevate your bagel game—try sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning!
- Allowing the bagels to cool fully before storing helps maintain their texture.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
Once your bagels have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or toast directly from frozen for a quick breakfast. These techniques will ensure that your bagels remain delicious and fresh!
Perfect New York Style Bagel Recipe FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
While you can use all-purpose flour, bread flour is recommended for the best chewy texture that typical New York bagels have.
How do I know when the bagels are done boiling?
The bagels should float to the surface within a few seconds of being dropped in the water. Boil them for about 1 minute on each side for the perfect texture.
What toppings can I add to my bagels?
You can add a variety of toppings such as sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, or a mix for an “everything” bagel. Just sprinkle them on right after boiling while the bagels are still wet.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just remember to shape and boil them before baking when you’re ready to enjoy.
Keep Cooking
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- Creamy Spinach Artichoke Tortellini Bake – Another delightful twist on tortellini that you won’t want to miss.
Let’s Eat
Now that you’ve mastered the Perfect New York Style Bagel Recipe, it’s time to enjoy your creation! Slice them open, spread on a generous layer of cream cheese, or top with your favorite spreads and toppings. These bagels are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack any time of the day. Happy baking!
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Perfect New York Style Bagel Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water and 2 teaspoons of instant yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Then, add 4 teaspoons of sugar, 3 cups of bread flour, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If sticky, sprinkle with more flour as needed.
- Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough, divide it into 8 equal pieces, roll into balls, and poke a hole through the center to shape into bagels. Stretch the hole to 1-2 inches in diameter.
- Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a damp cloth and let rest for another 30 minutes.
- In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Boil bagels for about 1 minute on each side.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Transfer boiled bagels back to the baking sheet, brush tops with warm water, and sprinkle with flour if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove baked bagels from the oven and let cool on a wire rack. Enjoy warm or store for later!
Notes
- Consistency is key; ensure dough isn't too sticky or dry.
- Boiling is essential for authentic texture.
- Try various toppings like sesame or poppy seeds for variety.
