Homemade Everything Bagels are a delightful and fragrant treat that you cannot resist. This comforting recipe brings the bakery right into your kitchen with every bite showcasing a chewy, warm bagel covered in a satisfying crunch from the everything bagel seasoning. The best part? Making these bagels is not only easy but also a fun activity that families can enjoy together. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to recreate that beloved flavor at home!

Ingredients

To make these Homemade Everything Bagels, you will need:

4 ⅔ cups bread flour: The foundation of your bagels, creating a satisfying chewy texture.
3 tablespoons granulated sugar (divided): Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory toppings.
2 teaspoons instant yeast: This ingredient ensures your bagels rise beautifully, giving them that signature fluffy interior.
2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of your bagels.
1 ⅔ cups warm water: Activates the yeast, helping the dough come together.
1 egg white + 1 tablespoon water (for the egg wash): Creates a beautiful, glossy finish.
3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning: A flavorful blend that adds an aromatic, crunchy topping to your bagels.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Dough: In a stand mixer bowl, combine the bread flour, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, instant yeast, and kosher salt. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add warm water until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a clean surface and knead for about 3-4 minutes until the dough is soft and smooth. If the dough is sticky, incorporate more flour or water as needed, a tablespoon at a time.
Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, covering it with plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes or until it doubles in size.
Divide and Shape: Once risen, transfer the dough to a surface and divide it into 10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball with the seam facing your palm. Poke a hole in the center of each ball with your thumb and stretch to form a bagel shape, ensuring the hole is larger than it seems as it will shrink during cooking. Let the bagels rest under a towel for 20 minutes.
Preheat and Prepare for Boiling: Preheat your oven to 425°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a pot, bring 2 quarts of water mixed with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar to a boil.
Boil the Bagels: Place each bagel in the boiling water, cooking for 45-60 seconds on each side. The bagels should float, indicating that they are ready. Using a slotted spoon, remove them from the water and set them aside.
Egg Wash and Seasoning: Whisk together the egg white and 1 tablespoon of water for the egg wash. Brush the bagels lightly with this mixture and sprinkle evenly with everything bagel seasoning, or dip them for a more substantial coating.
Bake: Bake the bagels for 20-22 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown. Halfway through, rotate and flip the pans for even baking. Let the bagels cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tips & Tricks

Temperature is Key: Ensure your water is warm but not hot to activate the yeast effectively.
Proper Shaping: Be generous in creating the hole in your bagels to prevent them from closing during the boiling process.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with the seasoning by adding garlic powder, onion flakes, or even poppy seeds for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Homemade Everything Bagels are best enjoyed fresh, sliced, and toasted with cream cheese for a breakfast treat. They also pair wonderfully with smoked salmon, ripe avocado, or simply a spread of butter. For brunch, serve them alongside a fresh salad, scrambled eggs, or a fruity yogurt parfait for balanced flavors!

Nutritional Information

Each bagel typically contains approximately 200-250 calories, primarily from carbohydrates and protein. They present a wonderful balance of nutrients, thanks to the fiber-rich bread flour. Pair a bagel with proteins or healthy fats to enhance satiety and nutrition.

Storing Tips & Variations

To store your bagels, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them in a resealable bag, and remember to toast them straight from the freezer. You can also experiment with various toppings, from cinnamon sugar to savory herb blends, to add variety to your bagel experience!

Conclusion

Making your own Homemade Everything Bagels is a nostalgic and fulfilling way to enjoy a beloved bakery staple right at home. The wonderful aroma and the satisfaction of creating something delicious are truly rewarding. So, roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try—your family and friends will absolutely love it!

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but the bagels may not achieve the same chewy texture. Bread flour has a higher protein content, which helps develop gluten for that perfect texture.
What if I don’t have instant yeast?
You can substitute with active dry yeast, but you will need to activate it in warm water with a bit of sugar before mixing it into the dough.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and boiling.
Is everything bagel seasoning gluten-free?
Check the specific ingredients of your seasoning blend, as some pre-made mixes may contain gluten. You can easily make your own gluten-free mix at home.
How can I reheat leftover bagels?
You can reheat them in a toaster or oven until warm. If frozen, toast them straight from the freezer for a crunchy exterior and warm interior.

Everything Bagels

Delightful and fragrant, Homemade Everything Bagels combine a chewy texture with a satisfying crunch from everything bagel seasoning, bringing the bakery experience home.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 30

Total Time 1

Servings: 10 bagels

Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 225

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

4 ⅔ cups bread flour The foundation of your bagels, creating a satisfying chewy texture.
3 tablespoons granulated sugar Divided; adds sweetness to balance savory toppings.
2 teaspoons instant yeast Ensures bagels rise beautifully.
2 teaspoons kosher salt Enhances overall flavor.
1 ⅔ cups warm water Activates the yeast.

Egg Wash and Topping

1 whole egg white + 1 tablespoon water For the egg wash.
3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning Adds an aromatic, crunchy topping.

Method

Preparation

In a stand mixer bowl, combine the bread flour, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, instant yeast, and kosher salt. Gradually add warm water until a shaggy dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a clean surface and knead for about 3-4 minutes until soft and smooth. Adjust with more flour or water as needed.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes or until it doubles in size.

Shaping and Boiling

After the dough has risen, divide it into 10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, poke a hole in the center, and stretch to form a bagel shape.
Let the bagels rest under a towel for 20 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 425°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Bring a pot of 2 quarts of water mixed with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar to a boil.
Boil each bagel for 45-60 seconds on each side until they float. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Baking

Whisk the egg white with 1 tablespoon of water and brush each bagel with this mixture, then sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown, rotating pans halfway through. Let cool before slicing.

Notes

For best results, ensure the water is warm but not hot for yeast activation. Consider various seasoning experiments for unique flavors.