Mix warm water, yeast, and sugar; let sit until foamy
Add flour and salt; mix until a dough forms
Knead the dough until smooth and elastic
Cover and let the dough rise until doubled
Divide the dough into equal pieces
Shape each piece into a ball
Poke a hole in the center of each ball and stretch into a bagel shape
Let the shaped bagels rest briefly
Boil water in a pot
Boil each bagel for about 30 to 60 seconds per side
Remove bagels and place on a baking sheet
Add toppings if desired
Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown
Cool before serving