Go Back
A batch of freshly baked soft and sweet bagels on a wooden board, some topped with cinnamon sugar and others with a shiny honey glaze, styled with a linen napkin and a cup of coffee in the background.

Soft and Sweet Bagels

These soft and sweet bagels are a dreamy blend of fluffy interiors and lightly chewy crusts, with just the right touch of sugary warmth. Perfect for brunch, snacks, or dessert-style breakfasts, this homemade recipe captures that bakery-style magic with every bite. Subtle hints of honey or brown sugar elevate both taste and texture, while optional mix-ins like cinnamon or chocolate chips allow endless customization. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or meal-prepping indulgent breakfasts, this recipe is your go-to for pillowy, golden perfection.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Breakfast, brunch, Dessert
Cuisine American
Calories 230 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups bread flour plus extra for dusting
  • 2 tsp instant yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water 105°F–115°F
  • 2 tbsp honey plus 1 tbsp for boiling water
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar optional, for deeper sweetness
  • 1 ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp melted butter or oil
  • 1 egg optional, for richer dough
  • Toppings: cinnamon sugar dried fruits, or sweet glaze (optional)

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, combine warm water with honey and sprinkle in the yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  • In a large bowl, mix bread flour, salt, and brown sugar. Add in the yeast mixture and melted butter (and egg, if using). Stir to form a dough.
  • Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Add a little extra flour if sticky.
  • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 60–90 minutes until doubled in size.
  • Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal portions. Shape each into a ball, then poke a hole through the center to form a bagel shape.
  • Let shaped bagels rest for 15–20 minutes.
  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tbsp honey. Boil each bagel for 30–45 seconds per side, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F. Optional: brush bagels with egg wash and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or add toppings.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and slightly glossy. Cool on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

For extra softness, add 1 tbsp Greek yogurt or dry milk powder to the dough.
Mix-ins like chocolate chips, raisins, or chopped apples can be folded in after kneading.
Store in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days, or freeze sliced bagels for up to 3 months.
Pair with flavored cream cheeses, nut butters, or fruit spreads for a bakery-style experience.