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Deliciously Chewy Sourdough Bagels Recipe

Deliciously Chewy Sourdough Bagels

There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of fresh-baked bagels wafting through your kitchen. Recreate that delightful experience right at home with these easy sourdough bagels.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sourdough Bagels
  • 1 cup active sourdough starter
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 4 cups bread flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt Essential for flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon sugar A little sweetness goes a long way!
  • 1 tablespoon malt syrup or honey Adds depth to the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Used in the boiling water.
Toppings
  • sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or coarse salt

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Parchment-lined Baking Sheet
  • Large Pot
  • Slotted Spoon

Method
 

  1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter and warm water. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Step 2: Add the bread flour, salt, sugar, and malt syrup or honey to the mixture. Stir until a rough dough forms.
  3. Step 3: Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  4. Step 4: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  5. Step 5: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
  6. Step 6: Shape each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center to form a bagel shape. Stretch the hole slightly to ensure it doesn't close during baking.
  7. Step 7: Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover with a damp cloth. Allow them to rest for about 30 minutes.
  8. Step 8: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the baking soda.
  9. Step 9: Boil each bagel for about 1 minute on each side, then remove them using a slotted spoon and return them to the baking sheet.
  10. Step 10: If desired, sprinkle toppings onto the bagels while they are still wet.
  11. Step 11: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  12. Step 12: Allow the bagels to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.