Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bagels, with a crispy golden exterior and a soft, chewy inside that puts store-bought versions to shame. These whole grain bagels aren't just a breakfast item – they're a culinary experience that will transform your weekend mornings from ordinary to extraordinary. Get ready to impress your family and friends with bakery-quality bagels made right in your own kitchen, packed with nutritious whole wheat goodness and a flavor that will make your taste buds dance!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 bagels
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole wheat flour
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon malt syrup (for boiling)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and slowly pour in warm water. Mix with a wooden spoon or stand mixer with a dough hook until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be firm and not sticky. If too dry, add water a teaspoon at a time.
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then use your thumb to create a hole in the center, stretching to form a bagel shape.
- Place shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rest for 15-20 minutes while preheating the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add malt syrup. Gently drop bagels into the boiling water, cooking for 1 minute per side. This creates the characteristic chewy exterior.
- Remove boiled bagels with a slotted spoon, drain excess water, and place back on the baking sheet.
- Optional: Sprinkle with desired toppings like sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or coarse salt before baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips
- • Ensure your water is warm (not hot) when activating the yeast to prevent killing the live cultures. • Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements to guarantee consistent results every time. • Don't rush the rising process – let the dough develop its flavor and texture naturally. • When shaping bagels, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking and create smooth surfaces. • The boiling step is crucial for that classic bagel chewiness – don't skip this key technique! • For extra flavor, experiment with toppings like everything bagel seasoning, poppy seeds, or dried onion flakes. • Allow bagels to cool completely before slicing to maintain their perfect texture. • These bagels freeze beautifully – wrap individually and store for up to 3 months for quick future breakfasts.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
