Name: Easy Homemade Pretzel Bagels.
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups warm water; 1 packet instant yeast ((2 1/4 teaspoons)); 1 tablespoon molasses or honey; 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 6 tablespoons salted butter ((at room temperature)); 1/4 cup baking soda; 1 egg ((beaten)); Pretzel salt or flaky sea salt

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own bagels at home, especially when you can put a delightful twist on the classic recipe. Enter the world of Easy Homemade Pretzel Bagels. These bagels combine the chewy texture of a traditional bagel with the rich, deep flavor of a pretzel. With a golden-brown crust and a soft, fluffy inside, they make for the perfect breakfast or snack. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make!

Imagine the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, and the joy of pulling these beautiful bagels out of the oven. Whether you enjoy them with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or simply a pat of butter, Easy Homemade Pretzel Bagels will elevate your brunch game to a whole new level.

Top Reasons to Make Easy Homemade Pretzel Bagels.

Unique Flavor: The combination of a bagel and pretzel creates a rich, unique flavor that’s unlike anything you can find at the store.
Freshness: There’s nothing quite like the taste of freshly baked bread. You control the ingredients, ensuring maximum freshness.
Customizable: Top them with your favorite seasonings or add-ins like cheese or herbs for a personal touch.
Fun Activity: Making bagels is a fun and rewarding kitchen project, perfect for family bonding or a weekend activity.
Perfect for Meal Prep: These bagels freeze well, making them a convenient option for busy mornings.

Ingredient Breakdown

2 cups warm water: This helps activate the yeast and creates the perfect dough consistency.
1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): A crucial ingredient for rising the dough quickly.
1 tablespoon molasses or honey: Adds a touch of sweetness and enriches the flavor profile.
5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your bagel dough, giving it structure and chewiness.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the bagels.
6 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature: Adds richness and contributes to a tender crumb.
1/4 cup baking soda: Used in the boiling step to give the bagels their distinctive pretzel-like crust.
1 egg, beaten: For egg-washing the bagels, giving them a beautiful, glossy finish.
Pretzel salt or flaky sea salt: A finishing touch that adds texture and enhances flavor.

Toolbox for This Recipe

Large mixing bowl: For mixing and kneading the dough.
Wooden spoon or spatula: To combine ingredients before kneading.
Kitchen scale (optional): For precise measurement of ingredients, especially for flour.
Baking sheet: To place the bagels for baking.
Parchment paper: To prevent sticking on the baking sheet.
Large pot: For boiling the bagels before baking.
Slotted spoon: To remove the bagels from the boiling water.
Pastry brush: For applying the egg wash.

Make Easy Homemade Pretzel Bagels.: A Simple Method

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, instant yeast, and molasses (or honey). Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Add the all-purpose flour and kosher salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as needed.

Step 4: Add the Butter

Incorporate the room-temperature salted butter into the dough, kneading until fully combined and smooth. This will take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape the Bagels

Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your finger and gently stretch it to form a bagel shape.

Step 7: Prepare the Water Bath

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the baking soda. This solution will give the bagels their pretzel-like crust.

Step 8: Boil the Bagels

Carefully drop the bagels into the boiling water, cooking them for about 30 seconds on each side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 9: Egg Wash and Seasoning

Brush each bagel with the beaten egg and sprinkle them with pretzel salt or flaky sea salt.

Step 10: Bake the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the bagels for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 11: Cool and Enjoy

Let the bagels cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before enjoying them warm or at room temperature.

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

Molasses: You can use agave syrup or maple syrup if you prefer a different sweetener.
All-purpose flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for a heartier bagel, but it may change the texture slightly.
Butter: Use a vegan butter substitute for a dairy-free version.
Pretzel salt: If unavailable, coarse sea salt works well as an alternative.

Chef’s Rationale

Making Easy Homemade Pretzel Bagels is not just about the end product; it’s about the journey. The process of kneading the dough and watching it rise is incredibly therapeutic. Using ingredients you trust ensures that each bite is flavorful and wholesome. The baking soda bath is what truly sets these bagels apart, giving them that characteristic pretzel crust that is both chewy and satisfying. Plus, the ability to customize and add personal touches means that every batch can be a new adventure!

Storing Tips & Timelines

The beauty of Easy Homemade Pretzel Bagels is that they can be stored for later enjoyment. To keep them fresh, place the cooled bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the bagels in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the toaster for a quick warm-up!

Reader Questions

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast for instant yeast, but you’ll need to activate it in warm water first and let it sit until foamy before mixing it with the dough ingredients.

How can I ensure my bagels have a chewy texture?

The key to a chewy texture lies in the boiling step and the type of flour used. Using bread flour can also enhance the chewiness due to its higher protein content.

Can I add toppings to my bagels?

Absolutely! Feel free to sprinkle toppings such as everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or cheese before baking for a delicious twist.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast or not enough warmth. Make sure your yeast is fresh and try placing the dough in a warmer spot to encourage rising.

That’s a Wrap

Homemade bagels are a delightful treat that can bring comfort and joy to your kitchen routine. Easy Homemade Pretzel Bagels are not only fun to make but also incredibly rewarding to eat. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious batch of bagels that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process, savor the results, and don’t forget to share your creations!