Homemade Pretzel Bagels Recipe

If you love both soft pretzels and chewy bagels, you are in for a real treat with this Homemade Pretzel Bagels Recipe. These bagels boast that signature golden-brown crust with a glossy finish and a slightly salty crunch from the pretzel-style baking soda bath and sprinkle of coarse salt. Inside, they offer a wonderful chewiness that hits the perfect balance between tender and dense. Making these from scratch may seem like a fun challenge, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll realize how incredibly rewarding it is to pull out freshly baked pretzel bagels that fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Let’s dive into everything you need to know, so you can bake these delicious homemade pretzel bagels right at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need for this recipe are some basic pantry staples, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the delightful flavor and texture of these pretzel bagels. From the sweet molasses that gives a subtle depth to the dough to the baking soda that crafts that classic pretzel crust, every ingredient counts.

• 2 cups warm water: Activates the yeast for a perfect rise and adds moisture to the dough.
• 1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): The magical agent that makes your dough rise and become airy.
• 1 tablespoon molasses or honey: Adds a subtle sweetness and gives that signature pretzel color.
• 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for chewy yet soft bagels.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances flavor throughout the dough.
• 6 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature: Gives richness and tenderness to the crumb.
• 1/4 cup baking soda: The key to achieving that iconic pretzel crust when boiled.
• 1 egg, beaten: Creates a glossy, golden crust after baking.
• Pretzel salt or flaky sea salt: Adds that satisfying salty crunch on top.

How to Make Homemade Pretzel Bagels Recipe

Step 1: Mix and Knead Your Dough

Start by combining warm water, yeast, molasses, flour, salt, and two tablespoons of softened butter in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Knead just until the dough comes together, which usually takes 1 to 2 minutes—no need to overwork it here. Then, cover your bowl and let the dough sit in a warm spot for one to two hours, until it has doubled in size. This is the magic moment when your dough transforms into a stretchy, airy base ready for shaping.

Step 2: Shape Your Bagels

Preheat your oven to 425°F and prepare two baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Once your dough has doubled, gently punch it down and transfer it to your floured counter. Divide it into 10 to 12 equal pieces. For each ball, poke a hole in the center with your finger and carefully stretch it to about a half to one-inch diameter. Place each shaped bagel on your baking sheets, then cover them with a damp kitchen towel and let them relax and rise for 15 minutes. This final rest ensures they’ll bake up nice and fluffy.

Step 3: Boil Your Bagels in Baking Soda Water

This is the step that makes your bagels stand out with that irresistible pretzel crust. Bring a large pot of water to a rapid boil and stir in the baking soda. Lower 2 to 3 bagels in at a time and boil for 3 minutes on one side, then flip and boil for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. This boiling bath sets the crust’s texture and gives that trademark chewy exterior. Remove the bagels with a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to drain.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden with Plenty of Butter and Salt

Brush each bagel generously with beaten egg to lock in moisture and promote browning. Make sure there isn’t excess water pooling next to the bagels or it will interfere with crisping up. Bake them for 10 minutes, then pull them out to brush with the remaining softened butter for an extra layer of deliciousness. Sprinkle pretzel salt or flaky sea salt atop each bagel before returning them to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown. Allow to cool just slightly before slicing or serving.

How to Serve Homemade Pretzel Bagels Recipe

Garnishes

Although these pretzel bagels are spectacular all on their own, some fresh garnishes can elevate your experience. Cream cheese is a classic—try plain, chive, or even a sweet strawberry spread. Avocado slices, smoked salmon, or a thin spread of spicy mustard can add delightful layers of flavor. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or chives if you want to add color and zest to each bite.

Side Dishes

These bagels pair wonderfully with simple sides. A crisp green salad or a tangy cucumber salad can cut through the richness. For breakfast, serve your pretzel bagel alongside scrambled eggs or a colorful fruit bowl for contrast. If you want a heartier meal, pair them with soup or chili—perfect for dipping!

Creative Ways to Present

Try your hand at open-faced sandwiches, layering your pretzel bagel with cream cheese, fresh veggies, and smoked salmon or deli meats. You can also transform these into mini slider sandwiches by filling them with savory or sweet fillings. For a fun twist, slice and toast, then top with melted cheese and herbs for a warm, snackable treat perfect for sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers from your Homemade Pretzel Bagels Recipe, wrap the bagels tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for 1 to 2 days, keeping that wonderful chew without drying out.

Freezing

To enjoy your pretzel bagels later, freezing is your best friend. Simply wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to three months, and you can take out as many as you need whenever a craving hits.

Reheating

When ready to eat, thaw frozen bagels at room temperature, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 to 10 minutes or until heated through. For a quick fix, the toaster also works beautifully, bringing back that fresh-from-the-oven texture and flavor in minutes.

FAQs

Can I substitute honey if I don’t have molasses for the dough?

Absolutely! Honey is a great natural sweetener that will add a subtle sweetness while also helping with the dough’s color and texture. Molasses gives a richer, deeper flavor, but honey is a perfect, easy substitute to try.

Why do I need to boil the bagels in baking soda water?

Boiling bagels in baking soda water creates that signature chewy, darkened crust that pretzel-style baked goods have. The alkaline nature of baking soda reacts with the dough surface, developing that beautiful golden crust and slightly pretzel-like flavor.

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, bread flour has a higher protein content, which can make your bagels even chewier and more structured. It’s a good swap if you want a slightly denser and more traditional bagel texture.

How long do homemade pretzel bagels stay fresh?

Freshly baked pretzel bagels are best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days at room temperature. Beyond that, they may start to dry out, which is why freezing any extras is a great idea to keep them tasting fresh longer.

Can I add toppings before baking, like sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning?

Definitely! After boiling and brushing with egg, sprinkle your favorite toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning before baking. Just be sure to press them lightly so they stick well during baking.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about making your own bagels at home, especially when you add that fun pretzel twist. This Homemade Pretzel Bagels Recipe brings together the best of both worlds with its chewy, golden crust and soft, flavorful interior. Whether you enjoy these warm with butter or loaded with your favorite toppings, baking these bagels will surely become a favorite ritual. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with your very own batch of irresistible pretzel bagels!

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