1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This foam indicates your yeast is active and ready to work!

2. Mix the Dough: Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. It should spring back slightly when poked. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for about 6-8 minutes.

4. First Rise: Lightly grease the mixing bowl, place the dough back in, and turn it once to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. The dough should look plump and airy.

5. Shape the Bagels: Gently punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball. Using your thumb, poke a hole in the center of each ball and gently stretch it to create a bagel shape, about 1-inch in diameter. Place the shaped bagels on a lightly floured baking sheet.

6. Boil the Bagels: Preheat your oven to 400 F (200 C). Bring 2 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot, then add the baking soda. Carefully drop 2-3 bagels into the boiling water at a time. Boil for 1 minute per side. They will puff up slightly and look shiny. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them back on the baking sheet.

7. Add Toppings and Bake: In a shallow dish, whisk the egg for the egg wash. Brush the top of each boiled bagel generously with the egg wash, then immediately dip the wet side into the sesame seeds, ensuring a good coating. Arrange the bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

8. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing and serving.