These chocolate chip bagels are a fun twist on a classic! Soft, chewy, and loaded with sweet chocolate chips, they make a perfect snack or breakfast treat.
Honestly, who wouldn’t love a bagel that’s like a little dessert? I enjoy them fresh out of the oven with a light spread of cream cheese—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread Flour: This ingredient is crucial because it gives the bagels their chewy texture. If you don’t have bread flour on hand, you can use all-purpose flour, but your bagels might be a bit softer.
Instant Yeast: Instant yeast helps the dough rise quickly. If you only have active dry yeast, you can still use it; just activate it in warm water first before adding to the mix.
Mini Chocolate Chips: I love using mini chips in this recipe because they distribute better throughout the dough. If you prefer, you can use regular chocolate chips or even dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
Egg Wash: The egg wash gives bagels a nice shiny finish. If you’re avoiding eggs, you can brush with milk or a non-dairy alternative for a similar effect.
How Do I Get My Bagels to Have That Signature Chewy Texture?
The boiling step is vital for achieving that iconic chewy bagel texture. This process sets the crust and helps lock in the moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the baking soda. This adds more chewiness.
- Boil the bagels for 1-2 minutes on each side. The longer you boil, the chewier the bagel will be, but too long can make them tough.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the bagels and let them drain before placing them back on the baking sheet.
Following this step will ensure your bagels come out just right and full of flavor!
How to Make Chocolate Chip Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagel Dough:
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 ¼ to 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips (plus some extra for topping)
For Boiling and Topping:
- 1 tablespoon baking soda (for boiling water)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 2 to 2.5 hours total. You’ll need around 15-20 minutes for preparation and mixing, about 1 to 1.5 hours for the dough to rise, plus 20-25 minutes for baking. Make sure to set aside some time to let those bagels cool after baking—they’ll be so tempting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Give it a good mix to ensure everything is well combined.
2. Form the Dough:
Gradually add warm water while stirring. You want to form a firm dough that is slightly tacky, but not sticky. If it feels too dry, add a little more water; if it’s too wet, sprinkle in some extra flour.
3. Knead the Dough:
Take the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth and elastic texture—this workout for the dough is what makes the bagels chewy!
4. Add the Chocolate Chips:
Flatten the dough slightly and gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. Be careful not to crush them as you knead them into the dough evenly.
5. Let the Dough Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which will take about 1 to 1.5 hours.
6. Shape the Bagels:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release some air. Divide it into 6 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round ball, then poke a hole through the center and gently stretch it to form a bagel shape.
7. Rest the Bagels:
Put the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them loosely with a towel and let them rest for 15-20 minutes while you preheat your oven.
8. Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to preheat at 425°F (220°C). This step is important for achieving a nice golden color.
9. Boil the Bagels:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Boil the bagels in batches for about 1-2 minutes per side. Once done, remove them with a slotted spoon and put them back on the baking sheet.
10. Brush with Egg Wash:
Lightly brush the tops of each bagel with the beaten egg, which gives them that lovely shine. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra chocolate chips on top for added deliciousness!
11. Bake the Bagels:
Pop the bagels in the preheated oven and bake them for 20-25 minutes, until they are golden brown and crisp.
12. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy your freshly baked chocolate chip bagels that are chewy on the inside and full of yummy chocolate!
Can I Use All-Purpose Flour Instead of Bread Flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour if you don’t have bread flour. Keep in mind that the bagels may be slightly softer and less chewy than those made with bread flour, but they’ll still taste great!
How Should I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer bag. Just thaw at room temperature or toast them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to eat!
Can I Make These Bagels Without Chocolate Chips?
Absolutely! If you prefer a plain bagel, simply omit the chocolate chips. You can also add herbs, cheese, or your favorite spices to create a savory version!
What If My Dough Doesn’t Rise as Expected?
If your dough doesn’t rise enough, check that your yeast is fresh and that the water was at the right temperature (warm, not hot). If it’s not rising, you can try placing it in a warmer spot or extending the rising time slightly.
