Introduction
There’s something irresistible about an Everything Bagel. That perfect balance of chewy, warm bread, combined with the bold, savory toppings—sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and a touch of salt. Whether you’re enjoying one for breakfast with cream cheese, making a sandwich, or just snacking on it fresh out of the oven, everything bagels are a classic favorite. They’re the kind of bagel that makes you want to eat one more—and then one more after that!
I first learned how to make everything bagels in my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would always knead the dough with care and top each one with a generous sprinkle of seasoning. It was a perfect combination of flavor and texture, and once you make them at home, you’ll never want to buy them from the store again. Let’s dive into this foolproof recipe for making your own Everything Bagels at home!
Ingredients for Everything Bagels
- For the Bagels:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- For the Everything Bagel Topping:
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp poppy seeds
- 2 tbsp dried onion flakes
- 1 tbsp garlic flakes (or garlic powder)
- 1 tsp coarse sea salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water (about 110°F). Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures that your yeast is active and ready to make the dough rise.
2. Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is foamy, pour it into the bowl with the flour. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix the ingredients together until a dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky at first but should come together as you knead it.
3. Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much or the bagels will be dense.
4. Let the Dough Rise
Grease a large bowl with olive oil and place the dough in the bowl, turning it to coat it lightly with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Bagels
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal portions, depending on how big you want your bagels. Roll each portion into a ball, and then use your finger to make a hole in the center of each ball. Stretch the hole slightly to form the classic bagel shape, making sure the hole is wide enough to prevent closing up during baking.
6. Boil the Bagels
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to medium. Carefully drop the bagels into the water, 2 or 3 at a time, and cook for about 1 minute per side. The bagels should puff up slightly as they cook. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the water and transfer them to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Add the Topping
Brush each bagel with the beaten egg to give them a shiny, golden finish. Then, generously sprinkle the everything bagel topping (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onion flakes, garlic flakes, and coarse sea salt) over the top of each bagel. The egg wash helps the seasoning stick to the dough.
8. Bake the Bagels
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bagels for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside. The bagels should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom, indicating they are fully baked.
9. Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. These bagels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven but will stay delicious for up to 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container.
Baking Tips for Perfect Everything Bagels
- Don’t Skip the Boiling Step: Boiling the bagels before baking is crucial for achieving that signature chewy, dense texture. It also helps them puff up beautifully.
- Use High-Quality Toppings: When making everything bagels, the topping is key! Use high-quality sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and fresh dried onions for the best flavor and crunch.
- Let the Dough Rise Properly: Make sure to let the dough rise for a full hour, or until it’s doubled in size. This step helps create a light, airy texture in the bagels.
- Experiment with Toppings: If you like your bagels with a twist, feel free to add other toppings like sunflower seeds, flax seeds, or even a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning from the store!
Serving Suggestions
- Classic with Cream Cheese: Spread your freshly baked everything bagels with cream cheese, butter, or any other spread of your choice for a classic breakfast or snack.
- Make a Bagel Sandwich: These bagels are perfect for making breakfast sandwiches with eggs, avocado, and smoked salmon or bacon.
- Toast with Toppings: Slice them in half and toast them for an extra crunchy exterior. Top with your favorite spread or fillings for an easy, delicious meal.
- Pair with a Hot Drink: Enjoy your bagels with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or fresh juice.
FAQs
Can I make these bagels ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before. Simply cover it and place it in the fridge after the first rise. In the morning, shape the bagels, boil them, and bake them. Freshly baked bagels in no time!
Can I freeze the bagels? Yes! After baking, allow the bagels to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven.
Can I make these bagels without boiling them? Boiling the bagels is what gives them their signature texture. While you could skip the boiling step, they may not have the same chewy interior or crispy exterior. I highly recommend not skipping this crucial step.
Conclusion
These Everything Bagels are everything you’ve been craving: chewy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. With just the right combination of savory toppings and a soft, slightly dense center, these bagels will quickly become a staple in your baking routine. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast or making a delicious sandwich, these homemade bagels will always hit the spot!