Homemade Bagels

INGREDIENTS

For the sponge:

1 tsp

instant yeast

4 cups

unbleached bread flour

2 1/2 cups

water, at room temperature

For the dough:

1/2 tsp

instant yeast

3 3/4 cups

unbleached bread flour

2 3/4 tsp

salt

2 tsp

malt powder OR 1 tablespoon (0.5 oz.) dark or light malt syrup, honey, or brown sugar

To finish:

1 tbsp

baking soda

Semolina flour or cornmeal, for dusting

Desired toppings (such as cinnamon-sugar, shredded cheese, seeds, etc.)

*”Everything” topping: combine 4 tsp. each of poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried minced garlic, dried minced onion and 2 tsp. kosher salt)