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Classic New York-style plain bagels stacked on a wooden board, golden brown with a chewy texture, perfect for authentic NYC breakfast at home.

Classic New York-Style Plain Bagels

The classic chewy and golden NYC bagel, perfect for any topping.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 12 hours
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 8 bagels
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups bread flour (500 g)
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast (6 g)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar  (25 g)
  • 1 tablespoon salt (15 g)
  • 1 ½ cups warm water (355 ml)
  • ¼ cup honey (60 ml, for boiling)

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
  • Slowly add warm water, stirring to form a firm dough.
  • Knead for 10 minutes until smooth.
  • Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and rise for 1 hour.
  • Divide into 8 pieces, shape into balls, rest 10 minutes.
  • Poke a hole in each and stretch into bagel shape.
  • Refrigerate covered overnight.
  • Boil in honey-water for 1 minute per side.
  • Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Notes

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes (hors temps de pousse)
  • Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
  • Total Time: 12H (includes overnight refrigeration)
For best flavor and texture, let the shaped bagels cold-ferment overnight in the fridge. This slow rise develops a deeper flavor and a chewier texture.