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Sourdough Bagel Recipe


  • Author: Jennie Graham
  • Total Time: 6-8 hours (includes rise time)
  • Yield: 8 bagels 1x

Description

These sourdough bagels are chewy, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast or snacks. The natural tang of sourdough adds depth to this classic treat!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water
  • 3 1/2 cups bread flour
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp barley malt syrup (optional, for added chewiness)
  • 2 tbsp baking soda (for boiling)
  • Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning

Instructions

  • Make the dough: In a large bowl, mix the sourdough starter, warm water, sugar, and barley malt syrup (if using). Gradually add the bread flour and salt. Knead for 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  • First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  • Shape the bagels: Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center of each ball using your thumb. Stretch the hole until it’s about 2 inches wide.
  • Second rise: Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let rest for 1 hour.
  • Boil the bagels: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil, and add the baking soda. Boil each bagel for 1-2 minutes per side, then remove and drain on a clean kitchen towel.
  • Add toppings and bake: If using toppings, dip the bagels in them after boiling. Place the bagels on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Notes

  • Barley malt syrup is optional but gives the bagels extra chewiness and flavor. You can substitute honey or molasses if you don’t have it.
  • For a more intense sourdough flavor, let the shaped bagels rise in the fridge overnight before boiling and baking.
  • To ensure even browning, rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bagel
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 1g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg