Soft Oven Baked Bagels

Name: Soft Oven Baked Bagels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast; 1 1/2 cups warm water; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Sesame seeds; Poppy seeds; Everything bagel seasoning; Coarse sea salt

Highlighted under: Oven Inspiration

I’ve always had a love for bagels, but the thought of making them from scratch seemed daunting. After trying different methods, I discovered this simple recipe for soft oven-baked bagels. The result is a delightfully chewy and fluffy bagel that you can enjoy fresh from the oven. Plus, it only takes about 20 minutes of hands-on time, making it a perfect weekend project or a fun activity for the whole family. Trust me, once you try these homemade bagels, you'll never want store-bought again!

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:05:36.353Z

When I first attempted making bagels, I was surprised at how easy and rewarding it was. The dough comes together quickly, and with just a few ingredients, you can create something truly special. One key tip I learned is to boil the bagels before baking them; it gives them that classic chewy texture and golden crust.

As the smell of baking bagels wafted through my kitchen, I couldn't help but feel proud of my creation. I started experimenting with toppings, from classic sesame seeds to everything bagel seasoning, and each variation left everyone wanting more. Making bagels at home has become a weekend ritual we all look forward to.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The satisfying chewiness that comes from the perfect bagel dough
Customizable toppings to suit every taste
The aroma of baking bagels will make your kitchen feel like a bakery

The Importance of Proper Yeast Activation

Activating the yeast correctly is crucial for achieving the perfect bagel texture. When you dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water, it should become frothy after about 5 minutes. This froth indicates that the yeast is alive and ready to help the dough rise. If you don’t see bubbles, your yeast may be expired, and it's best to start over. This initial step sets the foundation for your bagels' softness and chewiness.

Be attentive to the temperature of the water; it should ideally be between 110°F and 115°F (43°C - 46°C). Too hot, and you risk killing the yeast; too cool, and it won’t activate properly. If you have a thermometer, it’s wise to check the water temperature. Alternatively, you can test it with your wrist; it should feel warm, but not hot.

Kneading and Dough Consistency

Kneading is vital for creating the gluten structure that gives bagels their signature chewiness. After transferring the dough to a floured surface, knead it for about 10 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic, easily springing back when poked. If it’s too sticky, you can gradually add small amounts of flour as you knead; however, be careful not to overdo it, or your bagels may become dense.

During the rise, let the dough rest in a warm area, covered with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out. A draft-free environment can help achieve the ideal texture. You might also want to prepare the dough in advance and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight for enhanced flavor.

Boiling Technique for Perfect Bagels

The boiling step sets oven-baked bagels apart from breads, sealing in moisture and giving them that classic shiny exterior. Once your water reaches a rolling boil, lower the bagels gently to avoid splashing. Boil for 1-2 minutes per side; you can gauge readiness by observing whether they have puffed slightly and developed a glossy surface.

After boiling, don’t let the bagels sit too long before baking. The longer they rest, the less chewy they become. Additionally, when baking, watch for golden edges that indicate doneness. Make sure to rotate the baking sheet halfway through to promote even baking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious soft bagels:

Bagel Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Toppings (optional)

Sesame seeds
Poppy seeds
Everything bagel seasoning
Coarse sea salt

Make sure to adjust toppings as per your preference!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your homemade bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Then, add the salt and flour gradually, mixing until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 30 minutes.

Shape the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center to shape it into a bagel. Let them rest for 10 minutes.

Boil and Bake

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Gently place the bagels in the boiling water, cooking for 1-2 minutes on each side. Remove them and place on a lined baking sheet. Add desired toppings and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Enjoy your homemade bagels warm or toasted!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a touch of malt syrup to the boiling water, which can enhance the bagels' color and flavor.

Customizing Your Bagel Experience

The beauty of this bagel recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with toppings to suit your taste or dietary requirements. If you’re avoiding traditional toppings, consider using everything bagel seasoning or coarse sea salt for a flavor kick. You can also incorporate gourmet ingredients like herbs or spices into the dough for an enhanced flavor profile.

For a sweeter bagel, try adding cinnamon or raisins to the dough. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the sugar content slightly to maintain the right balance of flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store your freshly baked bagels, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag to maintain their texture and prevent them from drying out. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply toast them directly from the freezer. A few minutes in the toaster will restore their warmth and chewiness. If you prefer a soft texture, you can wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for about 15-20 seconds.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels turn out tough, it’s usually a sign of over-kneading. Always knead until just smooth and elastic, and remember that more isn’t always better. If your bagels collapse after boiling, you may have let them sit too long before baking. Keep an eye on the clock from boiling to baking to prevent this.

Additionally, if you’re unsure about the texture of your dough while kneading, refer to its elasticity. It should be smooth and tacky to the touch but not overly sticky. This is a good indicator that you’re on the right track to making perfect bagels.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Yes! Once completely cooled, place them in a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.

→ What other flavors can I add to the dough?

Feel free to experiment with herbs, garlic powder, or even cheese for added flavor in the dough.

→ How do I know when the bagels are done?

Bagels should be golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

→ Can I make mini bagels?

Absolutely! Simply divide the dough into smaller portions for bite-sized bagels.