5-Ingredient Homemade Bagels

0 In a large bowl, combine warm water, brown sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy and activated. 
6 Add the flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
11 Lightly brush the inside of a clean bowl with ½ tablespoon of olive oil, and place the dough inside.
10 Cover with a towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
9 Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
8 Roll each piece into a ball, poke a hole in the center with your finger, and gently stretch into a ring shape. 
7 Bring 8 cups of water to a boil in a large pot and stir in the baking soda.
5 Gently drop 2–3 bagels at a time into the water, so they have enough room to expand and don’t stick together.
4 Boil each for 30–45 seconds per side, then transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3 Brush each bagel with beaten egg and add your favorite toppings while still wet so they stick. 
2 Bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and glossy.If using cheese or other toppings that can burn, bake the bagels for about 18 minutes first, then remove, add the toppings, and return to the oven for 5–7 minutes until melted and lightly golden. 
1 Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve them fresh or toasted.
5-Minute Strawberry Schmear
13 Soften the cream cheese. Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. If it’s still cold, microwave it for about 15 seconds and stir until smooth. 
14 Chop and mash the strawberries with a fork. Leave a few small chunks if you prefer a bit of texture.
17 In a bowl, combine the mashed strawberries, softened cream cheese, vanilla, and honey.
16 Stir well until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and fully blended.
15 Spread generously over warm homemade bagels and enjoy immediately.