Go Back
Golden sourdough bagels with sesame and everything seasoning placed on a cooling rack, showing crispy crust and chewy texture.

Sourdough Bagel Recipe

This sourdough bagel recipe creates perfectly chewy, golden bagels with a crisp crust and rich, tangy flavor using natural fermentation. Made with simple ingredients and an overnight rise, these homemade bagels deliver authentic bakery-style results right from your kitchen.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Fermentation Time: 8–10 hours 10 hours
Total Time 10 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 8 bagels
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 260
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • ½ cup active sourdough starter (bubbly & fed)
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 4 cups bread flour (high-protein recommended)
  • 1½ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp honey
For Boiling
  • 2 tbsps brown sugar (or honey)
  • 6-8 cups water
Optional Toppings
  • Sesame seeds
  • Everything bagel seasoning
  • Poppy seeds
  • Shredded cheese
  • Cinnamon sugar

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl For combining and fermenting the dough
  • Measuring cups & spoons For accurate ingredient measurements
  • Kitchen scale (optional but recommended) Ensures precise baking results
  • Wooden spoon or spatula For mixing the dough

Method
 

  1. Mix the Dough

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, and honey. Stir until dissolved. Add bread flour and salt, then mix until a rough dough forms.

  2. Knead the Dough

    Knead by hand (8–10 minutes) or use a stand mixer until the dough becomes smooth, firm, and slightly stiff.

  3. Bulk Fermentation (Overnight Rise)

    Cover the dough and let it rest at room temperature for 8–10 hours.

  4. Divide & Shape

    Transfer dough to a surface and divide into 6–8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center and gently stretch into a bagel shape.

  5. Second Proof (Resting Stage)

    Place shaped bagels on a lined tray, cover lightly, and let rest for 30–60 minutes.

  6. Boil the Bagels

    Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add brown sugar. Drop bagels into the water:
    Remove and place back on tray.
    Boil 1 minute per side for chewy texture

  7. Add Toppings

    While still wet, sprinkle your favorite toppings like sesame seeds or everything seasoning.

  8. Bake the Bagels

    Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown. Rotate tray halfway through baking.

  9. Cool & Serve

    Let bagels cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

Sourdough Bagel Recipe

  • You can refrigerate shaped bagels overnight for enhanced flavor
  • Freeze baked bagels for up to 3 months
  • Reheat in toaster for best results
QR Code linking back to recipe