Homemade Ace Bakery Baguette Bagel Recipe: The Perfect Hybrid of Chew and Crust

Category: Bread

Introduction

The Ace Bakery Baguette Bagel is a unique fusion of the classic baguette and the traditional bagel, offering a chewy interior and a crusty exterior that has captured the hearts of many. This recipe aims to replicate that beloved product at home, using common ingredients while allowing for healthier and customizable options. By making it yourself, you can enjoy the same delicious taste with the added benefits of knowing exactly what goes into your food.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own bagels allows you to control the ingredients, reducing preservatives and additives found in store-bought versions. It's also cost-effective and fun, giving you the satisfaction of creating something from scratch. Plus, you can experiment with different flavors and ingredients to suit your dietary preferences and tastes.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the first time I bit into an Ace Bakery Baguette Bagel—it was love at first chew. The combination of textures was something I hadn't experienced before. Determined to recreate it at home, I spent weeks perfecting the recipe, tweaking ingredients and techniques until I finally nailed it. Now, I enjoy fresh, healthier bagels whenever I want, and I'm excited to share this journey with you.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:25 minutes
• **Total Time:45 minutes
• **Yield:4 bagels

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 3 cups (375g) bread flour
• 1 teaspoon (5g) instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240ml) warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 1 tablespoon (15g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil

Instructions

• Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
• Mix Dough: Add flour, salt, and oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
• Knead: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled.
• Shape: Divide dough into 4 pieces. Roll each into a rope, loop into a bagel, and seal the ends.
• Proof: Let shaped bagels rise for another 20 minutes.
• Boil: Preheat a large pot of water with 1 tablespoon sugar or malt syrup. Bring to a boil, gently add bagels (2 at a time), and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side.
• Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place bagels on a baking sheet, brush with egg wash or water, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Storage Instructions

Store bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 2 months and refresh in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

Variations

• Whole Wheat Version: Substitute 1 cup of bread flour with whole wheat flour.
• Seeded Bagels: Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds before baking.
• Vegan Option: Replace egg wash with water or almond milk.

Special Equipment

• Large pot for boiling
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Mixing bowls and measuring cups

Pro Tips

• Steamy Oven: Place a pan of water in the oven to create steam for a crustier bagel.
• Quick Rise: Use instant yeast for faster proofing.
• Perfect Crust: Don’t overcrowd the pot during boiling; cook bagels one or two at a time.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use all-purpose flour? Yes, but bread flour is preferred for chewiness.
• Why is my dough too sticky? Add a little more flour; too dry? Add water.
• Can I make these ahead? Yes, shape and freeze before boiling.
• What if I don’t have baking soda? Omit or use a pinch of salt.
• Can I make them gluten-free? Use a gluten-free flour blend.

Serving Suggestions

• Toast and spread with cream cheese or avocado.
• Slice for sandwiches or as a base for breakfast dishes.
• Use as croutons in salads or breadcrumbs in recipes.

Conclusion

This recipe offers a delicious, healthier alternative to store-bought bagels, allowing you to enjoy the perfect blend of textures with customizable options. Share your creations and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade baking!