1½ cups warm water (110°F) 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet) 4 cups bread flour 1 tbsp granulated sugar 1½ tsp salt 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for bowl) 1 tbsp honey (for boiling water) Toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning
Mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your dough will rise properly.
Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Knead until smooth, about 8–10 minutes. Place dough in an oiled bowl and let rise for 1 hour.
Divide dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll into balls, poke a hole in the center, and gently stretch into bagel shapes. Let rest briefly.
Boil bagels in water with honey for 1 minute per side. Place on a baking sheet, add toppings, and bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes.
Cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy homemade bagels fresh or toasted—delicious plain or with cream cheese, eggs, or smoked salmon.