Authentic NY Bagel

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There’s something deeply satisfying about biting into a chewy, golden-crusted bagel that delivers just the right balance of tenderness and bite. New York bagels have an unmatched reputation for good reason, with a legacy steeped in tradition, high-gluten flour, and that quick pre-bake boil that locks in the perfect texture.

Whether you grew up grabbing bagels from a corner deli or you’re experiencing the joy of homemade for the first time, this recipe brings you that authentic NYC experience in your own kitchen. The scent alone while baking will make you feel like you’re standing in a Lower East Side bakery.

Why You’ll Love This Authentic NY Bagel

These bagels are everything you’d want from the real deal. They’re chewy on the outside, slightly dense but soft on the inside, and they toast up beautifully. Homemade means you can enjoy them fresh out of the oven or personalize them with toppings from sesame to everything seasoning. If you’ve ever felt disappointed by supermarket bagels, this recipe will restore your faith.

What Flour Makes NY Bagels So Special?

It all comes down to high-gluten flour. This isn’t just about protein content—though that’s key. High-gluten flour creates that signature chew and firm texture you expect from a New York-style bagel. All-purpose flour just won’t cut it here. Look for bread flour or better yet, a labeled “high-gluten” variety. Also, don’t skip the boiling step. That’s what gives bagels their shiny crust and locks in their iconic bite.

Ingredients for the Authentic NY Bagel

The right ingredients make all the difference when it comes to getting that bakery-style result at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

• High-gluten flour: Essential for building the dough’s strength and giving that dense, chewy texture.
• Instant yeast: For a reliable and quick rise that supports the dough’s structure.
• Warm water: Hydrates the dough and helps activate the yeast.
• Barley malt syrup: Adds that slight sweetness and rich flavor signature to NY-style bagels.
• Salt: Enhances the overall taste and controls yeast fermentation.
• Toppings (optional): Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything seasoning, kosher salt, or minced onion.

How To Make the Authentic NY Bagel

Step 1: Mix and Knead the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Slowly add warm water and barley malt syrup while mixing. Once it comes together, knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.

Step 2: First Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Bagels

Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Shape each into a smooth ball, then poke a hole in the center and stretch gently to form a ring. Let the shaped bagels rest for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Boil the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a tablespoon of barley malt syrup. Boil each bagel for 1 minute per side, then remove and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake

Sprinkle your favorite toppings onto the wet bagels, then bake for 20 to 22 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before slicing, or enjoy warm.

How to Store and Serve Your Bagels

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but they also freeze beautifully. Store them at room temperature in an airtight bag for up to two days. For longer storage, slice them and freeze in individual bags—just pop one straight into the toaster when you need it.

This recipe yields 8 bagels, perfect for a brunch spread, breakfast on-the-go, or a cozy Sunday morning.

What to Serve With Authentic NY Bagels?

Cream Cheese and Lox

A timeless classic that layers silky smoked salmon over tangy cream cheese with capers and red onion.

Bacon, Egg, and Cheese

Turn your bagel into the ultimate breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs, crisp bacon, and melted cheddar.

Avocado Smash

Top your bagel with smashed avocado, chili flakes, and a squeeze of lemon for a trendy, satisfying bite.

Tuna Salad

Creamy tuna salad adds protein and makes a great lunch bagel option.

Peanut Butter and Banana

Go sweet and wholesome with peanut butter spread and banana slices—kids love it too!

Egg Salad

A soft, rich egg salad with a sprinkle of paprika pairs perfectly with a plain or sesame bagel.

Hummus and Veggies

Spread a thick layer of hummus and add sliced cucumber or tomato for a light, plant-based choice.

Chicken Salad

Whether classic or curry-style, this creamy filling works beautifully with bagels of any flavor.

Want More Bread and Savory Bakes?

If these Authentic NY Bagels won you over, you’ll love exploring other savory comfort bakes on Mia Plates. Here are some popular choices:

• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce for rich pasta lovers.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta if you crave bold, cheesy flavor.
• Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf to try another bakery-style delight.
• Creamy Garlic Orzo with Lemon Chicken Meatballs for a cozy one-pan dinner.
• Homemade Mexican Pizza Recipe if you like crunchy crusts and layered toppings.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest breakfast board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you stick with sesame, or get adventurous with everything spice? Maybe added a garlic butter glaze?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Share your results and questions below so we can all bake better, together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and baked favorites on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next brunch classic!

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