Mix warm water, yeast, and a little sugar; let sit until foamy
Add bread flour, salt, and optional malt syrup or honey
Mix until a shaggy dough forms
Knead until smooth and elastic
Cover and let rise until slightly puffy
Divide dough into equal pieces
Shape each piece into a smooth ball
Poke a hole through the center of each ball
Stretch the hole to form bagel rings
Let shaped bagels rest briefly
Boil water in a large pot
Add optional honey, malt syrup, or baking soda to the water
Boil bagels a few at a time for about 30 to 60 seconds per side
Remove bagels and place on a lined baking sheet
Add toppings if desired
Bake in a hot oven until golden brown
Cool on a wire rack before slicing