Can I make sourdough bagels without a starter?

No, a sourdough starter is essential for the tangy flavor and texture of the bagels. You can make your own starter or buy one from a store.

How long do sourdough bagels last?

Sourdough bagels will stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them.

Yes, you can freeze sourdough bagels. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply toast the bagels or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for a fresh, chewy texture.

Absolutely! Sourdough bagels pair well with cream cheese, avocado, smoked salmon, or even peanut butter and jelly for a delicious breakfast.

For extra flavor, you can add herbs like garlic, rosemary, or sesame seeds to the dough before boiling and baking.

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Mix the dough: Combine sourdough starter, flour, water, sweetener, and salt in a bowl. Stir until the dough forms, then knead until smooth.
Rest the dough: Allow the dough to rest and rise for 6-8 hours or overnight until doubled in size.
Shape the bagels: Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces, roll them into balls, and poke a hole in the center to shape them into bagels.
Boil the bagels: Bring water to a boil with baking soda. Boil each bagel for 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Bake the bagels: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the boiled bagels on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Cool and serve: Let the bagels cool on a wire rack before enjoying!

For extra flavor, try topping the bagels with sesame seeds or poppy seeds before baking.
You can store leftover bagels in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days or freeze them for longer storage.
For a softer bagel, reduce the boiling time by 30 seconds.