1-First Step: Mise en Place and Dough Mixing Start by measuring all ingredients. Warm water to 100-110°F helps yeast bloom. In a large bowl, combine 500 g high-gluten flour, 10 g yeast, 20 g sugar, and 10 g salt. Stir in 350 ml warm water and 20 g malt syrup. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. This base sets up your bagel dough for success. Takes 5 minutes.

2-Second Step: Kneading the Dough Turn dough onto a floured surface. Knead 10 minutes by hand until smooth and elastic. Or use a stand mixer with dough hook for 8 minutes. Dough should pass the windowpane test: stretch thin without tearing. This develops gluten for chewy bagels. Cover and rest 10 minutes. Gluten rest aids shaping later.

3-Third Step: First Rise Place dough in an oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth. Let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, until doubled. Punch down gently. This proofing builds flavor in homemade bagels. Timing tip: Ideal room temp 75°F. Cold kitchen? Extend to 90 minutes.

4-Fourth Step: Shaping the Bagels Divide into 12 equal balls (about 80-90 g each). Roll each into a tight ball. Poke a hole with thumb, stretch to 2-inch diameter. Place on parchment-lined sheet. Cover and rest 20 minutes. Shaping creates the classic ring. For vegan or gluten-free, handle gently to avoid tears.

5-Fifth Step: Boiling the Bagels Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add 1 tbsp malt syrup or barley malt syrup. Optionally, 1 tsp baking soda per gallon for extra chew. Boil bagels 1 minute per side. Use a slotted spoon to flip and remove. This step defines New York style bagels gelatinizes starch for shine and crust. Drain on wire rack 5 minutes. Adapt for low-cal by skipping malt in water.

6-Sixth Step: Baking Preheat oven to 450°F with pizza stone or baking stone inside. Transfer boiled bagels to parchment on stone. Bake 20-25 minutes until deep golden. Rotate halfway for even color. Cool on racks 30 minutes. High heat mimics deck ovens for authentic results. Yields best ny bagels recipe texture.

7-Final Step: Finishing Touches and Serving Slice and enjoy warm. Top with cream cheese, lox, or veggies. For dietary tweaks, use plant-based spreads. Total time: 3-4 hours. Store as noted below. Your boil and bake bagels recipe is ready for any meal.