Onion bagels are soft, chewy, and packed with tasty bits of onion. They’re perfect for breakfast or as a snack, especially when toasted with cream cheese!
There’s something special about warm bagels with a crunchy outside and delicious onion flavor. I love adding a little lox for a tasty treat. Yum! 🥯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread Flour: This is crucial for bagel texture, giving them that chewy bite. If you can’t find bread flour, you can use all-purpose flour, but your bagels may be a bit softer.
Onions: Fresh onions are vital for flavor. I love using yellow onions for their sweetness. If you prefer a milder taste, scallions or chives could be great substitutes.
Baking Soda: This is added to the water for boiling, enhancing color and texture. If you’re watching sodium, try using less, or experiment with a touch of honey for a sweet crust instead.
Sesame Seeds: These are optional but add a delightful crunch and flavor. If you don’t have sesame seeds, poppy seeds or everything bagel seasoning are tasty alternatives.
How Do I Knead the Dough Properly?
Kneading is key to developing gluten, which gives bagels their chewy texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- After mixing your ingredients, transfer the dough to a floured surface.
- Use the heel of your hand, push the dough away, then fold it back over itself.
- Repeat this motion for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If it’s sticky, add a little more flour as you go!
Don’t rush through this; good kneading makes a big difference in texture!
How to Make Onion Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 1 ½ cups finely chopped onions (about 1 large onion)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking onions)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 tablespoons baking soda (for boiling water)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 2 to 2.5 hours total. You’ll spend roughly 10-15 minutes prepping and mixing the dough, about 1 to 1.5 hours letting it rise, and around 30 minutes for boiling and baking the bagels.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté them for about 8-10 minutes until they are soft and golden brown. Once they are done, set them aside to cool.
2. Make the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix everything well. Gradually add the warm water while mixing until a rough dough begins to form.
3. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This is important for getting that perfect bagel texture!
4. Let the Dough Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm area until it has doubled in size (this should take about 1 to 1.5 hours).
5. Shape the Bagels:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces, shaping each piece into a ball. Poke a hole in the center of each ball with your finger and gently stretch it to create a ring about 2-3 inches in diameter.
6. Rest the Bagels:
Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them and let them rest for about 15-20 minutes.
7. Boil the Bagels:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the baking soda. Carefully add the bagels in batches, boiling them for about 1 minute on each side. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Add Onions and Seeds:
Brush the tops of each bagel lightly with water, then sprinkle the sautéed onions generously over them. If you’re using sesame seeds, sprinkle those on top as well!
9. Bake the Bagels:
Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and fully cooked.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack. Enjoy your fresh homemade onion bagels plain or toasted!
Can I Use Different Types of Onions?
Absolutely! While yellow onions are commonly used for their sweetness, you can also try red onions for a sharper flavor or sweet onions like Vidalia for a milder taste. Scallions or chives can also work if you prefer a lighter onion flavor.
What Should I Do If My Dough Isn’t Rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, check that your yeast is still active by proofing it first. Dissolve it in warm water with a pinch of sugar. If it bubbles and froths after 5-10 minutes, it’s good to use! Also, ensure your rising environment is warm—if it’s too cold, the dough may take longer to rise.
How Can I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and toast to refresh!
Can I Make These Bagels Without the Boiling Step?
While boiling is what gives bagels their characteristic chewy texture, you can bake them without boiling if you’re short on time. They won’t be as authentic, but you can still enjoy a tasty bagel-like bread.
