Sourdough baking continues to gain popularity not just for its signature tangy flavor but also for the satisfaction it brings to those who master the craft. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned home baker, exploring the nuances of sourdough opens the door to endless creativity. One of the most exciting ways to expand your baking skills is by transforming your sourdough starter into chewy, golden bagels—all from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Mastering the Art: Start with a Strong Foundation

Before diving into bagels, it’s crucial to understand the fundamentals of sourdough baking. Your starter is the heart of it all. It must be active, bubbly, and fed regularly to ensure the right fermentation. One of the best sourdough bread baking tips is maintaining a consistent feeding schedule with equal parts flour and water and keeping your starter at room temperature until it peaks in volume. This not only strengthens the culture but enhances the flavor and texture of your final product.

Bagel Time: A New Spin on Your Sourdough Routine

If you’ve already mastered the sourdough loaf, bagels are the perfect next challenge. Learning how to make sourdough bagels at home is easier than you might think. Begin by mixing your active starter with bread flour, water, salt, and a touch of honey or malt syrup for that authentic taste. After kneading, allow the dough to ferment overnight in the refrigerator. The slow rise enhances the flavor and strengthens the dough’s structure.

Shaping is the fun part—form smooth, round and poke a hole through the center with your thumb, gently stretching into classic bagel shapes. Boil the shaped dough briefly in water with a bit of baking soda before baking. This step gives bagels their signature crust and chewy bite. Top them with sesame, poppy seeds, or leave them plain—either way, the result is delicious.

Why Sourdough Bagels Are Worth the Effort

Compared to commercially yeasted versions, sourdough bagels boast a more complex flavor and improved digestibility due to the natural fermentation. They’re also free from unnecessary additives, making them a healthier option for breakfast or snacking. With just a few tools and ingredients, you can craft bakery-quality bagels from scratch.

Whether you’re looking to elevate your weekend brunch or impress family with homemade baked goods, sourdough bagels are an ideal project. For expert guidance, step-by-step recipes, and more tips tailored for home bakers, visit The Sourdough Baker—your trusted source for everything sourdough.