How to Make Perfect Discard Bagels: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Baking your own bagels can save you money; did you know Americans consume over 4 billion bagels a year? Creating your own discard bagels not only reduces waste but also offers a delightful homemade treat.

Making bagels with sourdough discard
Making bagels with sourdough discard

Recommended Kitchen Tools

What You’ll Make

You’ll make rustic, chewy bagels using sourdough discard that boasts a light tangy flavor and a golden brown crust.

Mixing dough for discard bagels
Mixing dough for discard bagels

Ingredients

  • 1 cup sourdough discard
  • 2 cups bread flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup warm water
  • 1 tablespoon malt syrup (optional)

Equipment

  • Stand mixer with dough hook
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Large pot for boiling
  • Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a stand mixer and knead until smooth. Rest dough for 1 hour. Shape into bagels, boil in malt-syruped water for 1 minute each side, then bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes.

Boiling bagels in water with a hint of malt
Boiling bagels in water with a hint of malt

Tips & Troubleshooting

For chewier texture, allow bagels to cool completely on a cooling rack. If bagels turn out too dense, adjust water content based on flour used.

Variations

Add poppy seeds or sesame seeds before baking to change the flavor profile of your bagels. You can also explore richer variations in this detailed guide for more technique ideas.

Storage & Reheating

Keep unused bagels in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes for fresh results.

FAQ

Can I freeze these bagels? Yes, freeze them once cooled, and they’ll last up to 3 months.

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