Salted Bread Bagels (Butter Bagels)
Discover the delight of making Salted Bread Bagels (Butter Bagels) at home. This recipe not only offers a healthier version of the classic bagel but also emphasizes protein content, making it an ideal option for meal prep and weight loss. With its light, fluffy texture enriched with a buttery flavor, these bagels are a great option for anyone looking for a heart-healthy, flavorful treat that fits conveniently into a healthy lifestyle.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS Salted Bread Bagels (Butter Bagels)
Salted Bread Bagels are not just delicious; they also cater to various dietary needs. With the option to adjust the amount of butter used, you can create a lighter option that still delivers on taste. They are high in protein and can be enjoyed without guilt as part of your meal prep routine, ensuring you have a wholesome snack or breakfast idea on hand. Plus, with their low-calorie content and potential for diabetes-friendly adjustments, these bagels are perfect for anyone looking to eat healthily.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Equipment 1: Mixing Bowl
A large mixing bowl is essential for combining the dough ingredients efficiently, allowing for easy mixing and kneading.
Equipment 2: Measuring Cups
Accurate measurements are crucial for baking, especially when aiming for the perfect bagel texture. Use both dry and wet measuring cups for best results.
Equipment 3: Baking Sheet
A versatile baking sheet is necessary for placing your bagels before and after boiling. It helps achieve that golden-brown finish.
Equipment 4: Pot for Boiling
You will need a pot to boil the bagels. This step is critical to achieving that beautiful chewy texture that bagels are known for.
Equipment 5: Cooling Rack
Allow the bagels to cool properly on a wire rack, preventing them from steaming and getting soggy at the bottom.
INGREDIENTS
Ingredient 1: Bread Flour
You will need 3/4 + 1.5 tbsp (108 g) of bread flour and 2 1/2 cup (322 g) of bread flour. Bread flour has a higher protein content, resulting in chewier bagels, which makes it a great option for those looking for a high-protein meal.
Ingredient 2: Water
Using 3/4 cup (180 ml) and 1/2 cup (125 ml) of water is essential for hydrating the dough. The boiling water (2/3 cup) will play a role in developing the bagel’s unique texture, keeping it chewy yet satisfying.
Ingredient 3: Instant Dry Yeast
Add 1/2 tsp (2 g) of instant dry yeast for fermentation. Yeast contributes to leavening and offers a few health benefits, such as improving gut health.
Ingredient 4: Honey or Brown Sugar
Using 1.5 tbsp (22 g) of honey or brown sugar sweetens the dough naturally while providing an energy boost. Try honey for a healthier sweet option.
Ingredient 5: Neutral Oil
1 tbsp (14 g) of neutral oil keeps the dough moist. You can use a heart-healthy option like canola or olive oil.
Ingredient 6: Salted Butter
For this recipe, you can use 10-16 tbsp (144-224 g) of salted butter. The amount can be adjusted based on your preference for richness. Using butter will elevate the flavor and provide healthy fats, but you can modify the amount to fit your dietary needs.
Ingredient 7: Rock Salt, Pretzel Salt, or Flaky Salt
This is used as a topping for your bagels. It adds that characteristic salty flavor on top of your freshly baked bagel, enhancing flavor immensely.
Ingredient 8: Malt Syrup, Molasses, Sugar, or Baking Soda
These ingredients can be used for boiling. They help in achieving that lovely golden color and flavor associated with traditional bagels.
HOW TO MAKE Salted Bread Bagels (Butter Bagels)
Prepare the Dough
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by combining the bread flour, skim milk powder, and instant dry yeast in a large mixing bowl. Incorporate your 3/4 + 1.5 tbsp (108 g) of bread flour for the initial dough.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Add the boiling water to the flour mixture, followed by the remaining cold water, honey or brown sugar, and neutral oil. Mix until a dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10–15 minutes until you have a smooth and elastic texture. This step is essential for gluten development, contributing to the chewy bagel texture.
Version 1: Bagel Dough
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Divide your dough into 40 pieces, cutting them into 3 x 1.5 x 1.5 rectangles. Roll each piece into a ball and then poke a hole through the center with your finger to form the bagel shape.
Version 2: Shio Pan Bagel Dough
Step 5: Cut for Shio Pan Shape
For the Shio Pan style, cut into 6 x 2 x 2 rectangles. This variation is slightly different in shape but equally delicious.
Prepare for Boiling
Step 6: Boil the Bagels
Bring a pot of water to a boil. You can add malt syrup, molasses, sugar, or baking soda to the water for flavor. Gently drop the bagels in the boiling water, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Boil for 1–2 minutes on each side before removing.
Shape the Bagels
Step 7: Top with Butter and Salt
Once boiled, place the bagels on a baking sheet. Brush melted salted butter over the top and sprinkle with coarse salt for added flavor.
Bake the Bagels
Step 8: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the bagels for about 20–25 minutes or until they are golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist the temptation!
TIPS AND TRICKS
- For a Healthier Option: Consider reducing butter for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These bagels store well in the freezer. You can make a big batch, freeze them, and reheat for a quick, nutritious breakfast.
- Storage: Store bagels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week; they can last even longer when frozen.
- Variations: Feel free to add herbs, garlic, or cheese in the dough for different flavor profiles.
Salted Bread Bagels (Butter Bagels) FAQ
1. Are Salted Bread Bagels healthy?
Yes, they can be! With adjustable butter amounts and plenty of protein from the bread flour, this recipe can cater to various health needs.
2. Can I make these bagels gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the bread flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works for bread making to keep the chewy texture.
3. How do I store leftover bagels?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage. Reheat in the oven to crisp them up again.
4. Are these bagels suitable for a low-calorie diet?
These bagels can be made lower in calories by adjusting the ingredients, especially the butter. The overall carbohydrate count can also be controlled through portion sizes.
CONCLUSION
Salted Bread Bagels (Butter Bagels) are a delightful treat that brings the joy of homemade baking into your kitchen while promoting a healthier lifestyle. This recipe emphasizes protein content and allows you to adjust fat levels based on your dietary goals. They are perfect for meal prep, providing a nutritious and tasty option for breakfast or snacks. We encourage you to try this recipe, explore different variations, and share your experiences! Embrace this wonderful opportunity to create a guilt-free yet flavorful version of bagels at home.
Salted Bread Bagels (Butter Bagels)
Ingredients
Method
- Mix the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the boiling water to the flour mixture, then the remaining cold water, honey or brown sugar, and neutral oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 10–15 minutes on a floured surface until you achieve a smooth and elastic texture.
- Divide the dough into 40 pieces and shape them into bagels.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil, adding malt syrup, molasses, sugar, or baking soda for flavor.
- Gently drop the bagels into the boiling water, boiling for 1–2 minutes on each side.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the bagels for about 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
