Ultimate Easy Homemade Bagels Recipe Without Yeast
In this recipe, we're sharing a simple and delicious way to whip up your own homemade bagels without the need for yeast. With just a handful of pantry staples and a mere five minutes of prep time, you can have these delightful treats ready to enjoy in no time.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.
Add the yogurt to the dry ingredients and use a fork or spatula to mix until the mixture resembles small crumbles.
Knead the Dough. Lightly dust a work surface with flour and transfer the dough from the bowl. Knead the dough a few times until it becomes tacky but not sticky, about 15 turns.
Shape the Bagels. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each portion into ropes about 3/4-inch thick. Join the ends of each rope to form bagels. Alternatively, you can shape each portion into a ball and poke a hole in the center of each ball, then stretch it slightly to form a bagel shape. I like to use the handle of a wooden spoon or you can just use your index finger.
Apply Egg Wash and Seasoning. Brush the tops of the shaped bagels with egg wash and sprinkle both sides with a little bit of your choice of seasoning.
Baking in the oven.
Preheat the Oven. Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Baking Sheet. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. If using parchment paper, lightly coat it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Place the bagels on the top rack of the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Baking in the Air Fryer.
Preheat the Air Fryer. Set the air fryer to 280°F (140°C) and allow it to preheat. Line basket with parchment paper sprayed with cooking spray.
Bake in Batches. Transfer the bagels to the air fryer basket in batches, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Bake for 15 to 16 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Cool Before Cutting. Allow the bagels to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Tips for the Perfect Bagel Prevent Sticking.
Use a silicone baking mat (like a Silpat) or parchment paper sprayed with oil to prevent the bagels from sticking to the baking sheet. To secure the parchment paper to the baking sheet, lightly spray oil on the corners.Shaping. Shape the bagels evenly and make sure the ends are sealed tightly to prevent them from unraveling during boiling and baking. You can use a floured finger to poke a hole in the center of each dough ball and stretch it out to form the bagel shape.Allow Room for Expansion. Bagels expand as they bake, so ensure they have enough space on the baking sheet to prevent them from sticking together. Choose Greek Yogurt. Opt for Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt. If there's any excess liquid in the yogurt, be sure to drain it before using.Adjust Dough Consistency. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour or reduce the amount of yogurt used to achieve the desired consistency.Scale the Recipe. Easily adjust the recipe to make more or fewer bagels. You can double or triple the ingredients for more bagels or halve or quarter them for fewer.Using Self-Rising Flour. If using self-rising flour, omit the salt and baking powder from the recipe.Baking Placement. Bake the bagels on the top rack of the oven to prevent the bottoms from becoming too browned.Don't Overload with Toppings. While toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning can add flavor and texture, be careful not to overload the bagels. Too many toppings can weigh down the dough and prevent proper rising.Cool Completely Before Slicing. Allow the bagels to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing them. Cutting into hot bagels can cause them to become gummy.