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; 2 teaspoons instant yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1½ cups warm water; Cooking spray or oil for greasing; Sesame seeds; Poppy seeds; Everything bagel seasoning; Coarse sea salt

Highlighted under: Oven Meals

I’ve always loved the comforting aroma of fresh bagels wafting through the kitchen. Making Soft Oven Baked Bagels at home seemed daunting at first, but I was pleasantly surprised by how simple the process is. The dough comes together beautifully, and with just a few ingredients, you can create bagels that are crispy on the outside and soft within. They are perfect for breakfast or a snack, and I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you!

Created by

Yvette Harrington

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:17:36.270Z

Baking these Soft Oven Baked Bagels has become a weekend tradition in my house. I love the way the dough feels in my hands as I knead it, and watching them puff up in the oven is incredibly satisfying. One tip I picked up is to boil the bagels for just a minute before baking, which locks in moisture and gives them that classic chewy texture.

Experimenting with toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning has made each batch unique. I find that letting the formed bagels rest before baking improves their texture significantly, making them even more enjoyable fresh out of the oven!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Freshly baked bagels right from your oven.
Customizable toppings to suit any taste.
Easy to make with minimal ingredients.

Understanding the Dough

The foundation of your Soft Oven Baked Bagels lies in the dough, which consists mainly of all-purpose flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. The type of flour used can influence the texture; for a chewier bagel, consider using bread flour instead. Instant yeast is preferred here because it allows for a quicker rise without the need for proofing, simplifying your preparation. Ideally, your water should be between 100-110°F to ensure the yeast activates effectively without killing it.

Kneading is crucial. Aim for about 10 minutes of kneading on a well-floured surface until your dough becomes smooth and elastic. As you knead, the gluten in the flour develops, creating a stronger structure that will hold its shape during boiling and baking. A well-kneaded dough will feel slightly tacky yet not overly sticky, allowing you to shape it easily into bagels.

Boiling and Baking Techniques

Boiling the bagels is a key step in achieving that iconic bagel texture. When you drop the bagels into boiling water, the high temperature sets the exterior, creating a chewy crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior. Boil each bagel for about 1 minute on each side. If you prefer an even chewier bagel, you can increase the boiling time by 30 seconds; this step is adjustable based on your texture preference.

As you prepare for baking, ensure your oven is preheated adequately to 425°F (220°C). A properly preheated oven is essential for achieving a golden-brown crust. While baking, keep an eye on your bagels; they’ll start to puff up and turn golden at the edges. If they’re not browning after 20 minutes, consider turning on the broiler for a minute or two at the end, but watch them closely to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Bagel Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons instant yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1½ cups warm water
Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Toppings (optional)

Sesame seeds
Poppy seeds
Everything bagel seasoning
Coarse sea salt

Adjust the toppings according to your preference for a personal touch!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Gradually add the warm water and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it's smooth and elastic.

Let the Dough Rise

Grease a bowl and place the kneaded dough inside, covering it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm area for about 30 minutes or until it doubles in size.

Shape the Bagels

Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and use your thumb to poke a hole in the center, gently stretching it to form a bagel shape.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Boil each bagel for about 1 minute on each side, removing them with a slotted spoon.

Bake the Bagels

Place the boiled bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, sprinkle your choice of toppings on top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bagels to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them plain or with your favorite spread!

Fresh out of the oven, these bagels are best enjoyed the same day!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a bit of malt syrup to the boiling water. It enhances the bagel's taste and provides a lovely sheen.

Customizing Your Bagels

One of the delights of making Soft Oven Baked Bagels at home is the ability to customize toppings to your taste. While classic toppings like sesame seeds and poppy seeds are great, don't hesitate to get creative. Try adding shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or even spices like garlic powder. For a sweet option, you might consider brushing the tops with melted butter and sprinkling cinnamon sugar before baking!

Additionally, if you're making bagels for a gathering, consider preparing a variety of flavors. Create a batch with everything bagel seasoning and another with coarse sea salt. This way, everyone can enjoy their preferred flavor, from savory to slightly sweet.

Storage and Reheating Tips

After baking, allow your bagels to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents moisture from collecting beneath, which can result in sogginess. If you have leftovers, store them in a resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, slice the bagels and freeze them in a single layer; once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen bagels, simply toast them directly from the freezer. This maintains their soft interior while achieving a crispy exterior. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 30 seconds, but keep in mind that they won't have the same texture as when baked fresh.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these bagels?

Yes, you can freeze the cooled bagels. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.

→ What is the best way to reheat bagels?

Reheat bagels in a toaster or oven until warmed through. You can also slice them in half and toast them for added texture.

→ How do I know when the bagels are done baking?

The bagels should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

→ What variations can I try for the bagel dough?

You can add ingredients like garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs to the dough for extra flavor.