Name: Ridiculously Easy Homemade Bagels Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (bread flour also okay); 4 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon sea salt; 1 ½ cups Greek yogurt; Egg white from one egg; 1 teaspoon water; Sesame seeds; Poppy seeds; Flax seeds; Grated cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 26 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a perfectly chewy, golden, and fresh bagel but dreaded the complicated process, you’re going to fall in love with this Ridiculously Easy Homemade Bagels Recipe. It combines simple ingredients with straightforward techniques to deliver bagels that are fluffy on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside, all without the fuss of boiling or long rising times. Whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack, these bagels will become your new go-to—easy enough for a weeknight treat and delicious enough to impress friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two sides of a baking tray with bagels. The left side has nine raw bagels arranged in three rows; the top row has three bagels sprinkled with a mix of black and white seeds, the middle row has two plain bagels and one with sesame seeds, and the bottom row has three plain bagels. The dough is smooth and pale. On the right side, the nine bagels are baked and turned golden brown, with a soft and slightly shiny surface. The seed toppings on the bagels stayed visible after baking. The tray rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Ridiculously Easy Homemade Bagels Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role, creating that ideal bagel texture and flavor without complicated steps. From the tangy richness of Greek yogurt to the perfectly balanced rise from baking powder, every component brings something special to the table.

2 cups all-purpose flour (bread flour also okay): The base that gives structure and chewiness to your bagels.

4 teaspoons baking powder: The leavening agent responsible for the rise and fluffiness without yeast.
½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances flavor and balances the tanginess of the yogurt.
1 ½ cups Greek yogurt: Adds moisture, tenderness, and a slight tang that’s signature to these bagels.

Egg white from one egg: Used to create a shiny, golden crust when brushed on before baking.
1 teaspoon water: Mixed with the egg white for the perfect egg wash consistency.
Optional Toppings – sesame seeds, poppy seeds, flax seeds, grated cheese: Elevate flavor, texture, and visual appeal.

How to Make Ridiculously Easy Homemade Bagels Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple prep sets the stage for even baking and easy clean-up, making the whole process smoother.

Step 2: Prepare Your Egg Wash

In a small bowl, beat the egg white together with a teaspoon of water using a fork. This egg wash will give your bagels that irresistible golden sheen and an appealing crust once baked.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and sea salt in a large bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly ensures an even distribution of flavor and rise throughout your dough.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the Greek yogurt to the dry mixture and stir well with a fork or pastry cutter. The yogurt helps bind everything while providing moisture and a slight tang, creating that classic bagel taste.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Gather the mixture into a ball with your hands. If it feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water and mix again. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface about ten times to activate the gluten and develop the perfect bagel texture.

Step 6: Shape Your Bagels

Divide the dough into eight equal portions. Roll each one into a log shape, then connect the ends by overlapping and squeezing firmly to form a ring. Placing these on your prepared baking sheet gets you ready for the final touches.

Step 7: Add Egg Wash and Toppings

Brush each bagel generously with the egg wash, making sure to coat all visible surfaces, including the inside edges. Now is the time to sprinkle on your favorite toppings like sesame seeds or grated cheese to add extra personality and crunch.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven, placing it on an upper rack, and bake for 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the bagels turn a lovely golden brown and have that chewy, satisfying crust.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, transfer your bagels to a wire rack and let them cool for at least 15 minutes. This resting step allows the bagels to set, making slicing and topping easier and tidier.

How to Serve Ridiculously Easy Homemade Bagels Recipe

A pile of soft, light brown bagels rests on a white cloth with thin black stripes, placed on a white marbled surface. Two bagels, sliced open and showing their airy, pale, and slightly porous interiors, lie on top in the foreground. Surrounding them are whole bagels, some sprinkled with white sesame seeds and others with dark poppy seeds, showing their smooth, glossy surfaces. The arrangement focuses on the texture contrast between the crust and the soft inside of the bagels. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Bagels are a perfect canvas for an array of toppings. Spread a thick layer of cream cheese, layer on smoked salmon, or keep it simple with butter and jam—each garnish adds a new level of deliciousness to this already excellent base.

Side Dishes

Pair your bagels with fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, or a vibrant salad for a balanced meal. Warm soup or eggs also work wonderfully for a heartier brunch option that complements the textures of these bagels.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, turn your bagels into breakfast sandwiches with eggs and veggies, or mini pizzas by adding tomato sauce, cheese, and toppings before baking a few extra minutes. These creative presentations make the Ridiculously Easy Homemade Bagels Recipe even more versatile and exciting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any bagels left, store them in a sealed bag at room temperature for 1-2 days to maintain freshness and softness. This short window ensures they stay delightful without drying out.

Freezing

To keep your bagels fresh longer, freeze them after they’ve cooled completely. Place each bagel in a freezer bag or container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy, thaw your bagels at room temperature or toast them directly from frozen. A quick pop in the toaster revives their crispy crust and chewy interior, making them taste as good as fresh.

FAQs

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can, but since regular yogurt is thinner, start with 1 cup and add more gradually until the dough holds together well. This ensures your bagels don’t become too wet or sticky.

Why don’t we boil the bagels before baking?

This recipe skips boiling to keep it quick and simple. The baking powder helps create a tender, fluffy texture with a golden crust, so no boiling step is needed to get that classic bagel feel.

Can I make larger bagels with this recipe?

Absolutely! Simply divide the dough into 4 or 6 pieces instead of 8 for larger bagels. Just keep in mind that baking times may increase slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.

What toppings work best on these homemade bagels?

Traditional toppings like sesame and poppy seeds are fantastic, but flax seeds, grated cheese, or even everything bagel seasoning are all excellent choices to customize your bagels to your taste.

How do I know when the bagels are baked properly?

Look for a golden brown color all over, including the edges and inside ring. The bagels should feel slightly firm on the outside but still yield a chewy texture when bitten.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about baking your own bagels at home, especially when the recipe is as simple and rewarding as this Ridiculously Easy Homemade Bagels Recipe. From the straightforward ingredients to the quick preparation, these bagels offer the perfect blend of convenience and deliciousness. I can’t wait for you to give them a try and make these delightful treats a regular part of your kitchen adventures!