Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good bagel? While Panera Bread doesn’t offer vegan bagels on their regular menu, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on this delicious breakfast staple. With this easy guide and a few simple ingredients, you can create your own batch of perfectly chewy, flavorful vegan bagels right in your own kitchen.
Homemade Vegan Bagel Bliss: Your New Go-To Recipe
Forget searching for “vegan bagels near me,” because this recipe will quickly become your favorite way to satisfy those bagel cravings. No special equipment needed, just a bit of patience and love for good food!
Ingredients for Doughy Perfection:
- 1 cup warm water (around 100°F)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Toppings for Flavor Adventures:
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Sesame seeds
- Poppy seeds
- Dried onion flakes
- Coarse sea salt
Let’s Get Started: Crafting Your Vegan Bagels
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and give it a gentle stir. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5-10 minutes, until the yeast is foamy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic!
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Time to Knead: Add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture, along with the olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- The First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Woman kneading vegan bagel dough on a lightly floured surface - Shape Those Bagels: Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball. Using your thumb, poke a hole in the center of each ball and gently stretch it into a bagel shape.
Perfectly shaped vegan bagels ready for the second rise - The Second Rise: Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat and Prep: While the bagels are enjoying their second rise, preheat your oven to 425°F. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a tablespoon of baking soda to the boiling water.
- The Bagel Bath: Gently lower each bagel into the boiling water, one at a time. Boil for about 30 seconds per side. This step gives the bagels their signature chewy texture.
Boiling vegan bagels in a pot of water - Add Toppings: Once boiled, carefully remove the bagels from the water and place them back on the baking sheet. Brush each bagel with a little water or plant-based milk and sprinkle with your desired toppings.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
Perfectly shaped vegan bagels ready for the second rise
Boiling vegan bagels in a pot of waterFresh Out of the Oven: Enjoy Your Homemade Vegan Bagels!
Let the bagels cool slightly before slicing and serving. They’re absolutely delicious toasted with your favorite vegan spreads.
“The secret to a truly authentic bagel experience is the boiling step,” says vegan chef, Sarah Green. “Don’t skip it! It’s what gives bagels their unique texture and chewiness.”
Vegan Bagel FAQs: All Your Questions Answered
1. Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour works best, you can experiment with bread flour for a chewier texture or a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
2. How do I store leftover bagels?
Let the bagels cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
3. Can I make these bagels without boiling them?
While boiling is traditional, you can bake the bagels without boiling for a softer texture. However, keep in mind that they won’t have the same classic bagel chew.
4. What are some delicious vegan bagel toppings?
The possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas:
- Vegan cream cheese and fresh fruit
- Avocado toast with a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning
- Hummus and sliced cucumbers
- Vegan smoked salmon and capers
- Vegan pizza bagels with your favorite toppings
5. Can I make these bagels ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough through step 6, then cover the baking sheet tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, let the bagels sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before proceeding with steps 7-10.
“Making your own vegan bagels allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking,” adds Chef Green. “It’s a rewarding experience that yields delicious results!”
So there you have it! Now you can enjoy warm, fresh-baked vegan bagels anytime the craving strikes. Experiment with different toppings and flavors to create your own signature bagel creations. Happy baking!
