Homemade Everything Bagels are a delicious and versatile treat that brings the taste of a New York deli right to your kitchen.

These bagels are chewy on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside, topped with a savory blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and coarse salt.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying snack, these bagels can be enjoyed plain, toasted, or with your favorite spreads and fillings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love Homemade Everything Bagels for their fresh, bakery-quality taste and the satisfaction of making them from scratch.

These bagels have a wonderful chewy texture and a flavorful topping that adds a savory crunch to every bite.

Making bagels at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize them to your liking.

Whether you enjoy them with cream cheese, butter, or as the base for a hearty sandwich, these bagels are sure to become a favorite.

Expert Tips and Tricks

• Boil with care: Boiling the bagels briefly before baking gives them their characteristic chewy texture. Use a bit of baking soda in the water for a golden-brown crust.
• Proofing time: Allowing the dough to proof properly ensures the bagels rise well and develop a good texture.
• Toppings: Press the everything bagel seasoning firmly into the dough to ensure it sticks during baking.
• Even baking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for an even, golden crust.
• Shaping: Forming the dough into smooth, even rounds and then poking a hole in the center helps achieve the classic bagel shape.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend specifically designed for bread baking.
• Whole Wheat: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier bagel.
• Different Toppings: Try other toppings such as plain sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or cinnamon sugar for variety.
• Cheese Topping: Add shredded cheese to the top for a cheesy bagel.
• Flavor the Dough: Mix herbs, spices, or even finely chopped onions or garlic into the dough for additional flavor.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve Homemade Everything Bagels warm or toasted, spread with cream cheese, butter, or avocado.

They make an excellent base for sandwiches, whether topped with smoked salmon and capers for a classic lox bagel, or loaded with eggs, bacon, and cheese for a hearty breakfast option.

Pair them with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup for a satisfying meal. For beverages, coffee, tea, or fresh juice are perfect companions to these delicious bagels.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store at room temperature: Keep the bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate: For longer storage, refrigerate the bagels and toast them before serving to refresh their texture.
• Freeze: Freeze the bagels individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before toasting.
• Reheat: Toast the bagels in a toaster or toaster oven to regain their crisp exterior and warm interior.

Recipe FAQs

• Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight.
• What if I don’t have everything bagel seasoning? You can make your own blend with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and coarse salt.
• How do I prevent the bagels from being too dense? Ensure you knead the dough properly and allow enough time for proofing. Over-kneading can also make the dough too tough.
• Can I skip the boiling step? Boiling is essential for the bagels’ chewy texture and shiny crust. Skipping this step will result in a different texture.
• Why did my bagels come out flat? This could be due to over-proofing or under-proofing the dough. Proper proofing time and handling are key to maintaining the bagels’ shape.