Mix yeast, sugar, water, salt, and flour together until you have a moist and firm dough

On a floured surface, knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Try working in as much flour as possible to form a firm and stiff dough.

Lightly brush a large bowl with oil and turn the dough to coat. Cover the bowl with a damp dish towel. Let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, until the dough has doubled in size. Punch the dough down, and let it rest for another 10 minutes.

Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. Then divide dough into 8 pieces and mold them into balls.

Stick a finger through each dough ball and work it into a ring, with the center about 1/3 the total diameter. Place these on the greased cooking sheet.

Bring a large pot of water to boil, and set the oven to preheat to 425F. Let the dough rings sit while the water boils.

Once the water is boiling, reduce the temperature, and lower the dough rings into the water. Let the boil for 1:45-2:00 on each side, and then remove from the water.

To add toppings: Beat an egg into a bowl. Use a brush to coat top of the just-boiled bagels with egg, them sprinkle with desired toppings.

Place bagels on cooking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.