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Homemade Jerusalem Bagel Recipe photo

Jerusalem Bagel Recipe

This Jerusalem Bagel Recipe is a delightful journey to Israel! Chewy, slightly sweet, and topped with sesame seeds, these bagels are a must-try.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: Israeli
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon instant yeast
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 1/2 cups warm whole milk
  • Olive oil as needed
  • 1/3 cup sesame seeds
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon water

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon
  • Clean kitchen towel
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

The Method for Jerusalem Bagel Recipe
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Dough - In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, instant yeast, and baking powder. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
  2. Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients - Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the warm milk, honey, and water. Using a wooden spoon, stir the mixture until it begins to come together into a dough.
  3. Step 3: Knead the Dough - Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
  4. Step 4: First Rise - Lightly grease a clean bowl with olive oil and place the dough inside, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Step 5: Shape the Bagels - Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, approximately 10-12 inches long. Bring the ends together to form a circle, pinching to seal.
  6. Step 6: Second Rise - Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
  7. Step 7: Preheat Oven - While the bagels are rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  8. Step 8: Boil the Bagels - In a large pot, bring water to a gentle boil. Add a tablespoon of honey to the water. Carefully drop each bagel into the boiling water, cooking for about 1 minute on each side. This step is crucial for that chewy texture!
  9. Step 9: Bake the Bagels - Remove the bagels from the water and place them back on the baking sheet. Sprinkle sesame seeds generously on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  10. Step 10: Cool and Enjoy - Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Enjoy them fresh, or store them for later!

Notes

  • Use warm milk to activate the yeast properly.
  • Don't skip the boiling step for a chewy texture.
  • Store leftover bagels in an airtight container for up to 2 days.