Learn how to make the best homemade everything bagels with this easy recipe. A perfect combination of savory toppings and soft, chewy dough, ideal for breakfast or snacks!
Introduction to Everything Bagel
In the world of breakfast and beyond, one particular type of bagel has managed to carve out a special place in our hearts and bellies—the everything bagel. Combining the traditional bagel base with a sprinkle of various toppings, everything bagels are a popular choice for bagel lovers everywhere. But what makes them so special? This article explores everything there is to know about these tasty treats, from their origins and ingredients to how you can incorporate them into different meals. Whether you’re a bagel enthusiast or a casual consumer, you’ll learn the ins and outs of the everything bagel phenomenon.
What is an Everything Bagel?
The everything bagel, as we know it, was first created in New York in the 1980s. While its exact inventor is often debated, many trace its roots to a bagel shop in the city. What makes this bagel unique is the topping—a blend of poppy seeds, sesame seeds, garlic, onion, and sometimes salt—sprinkled generously over the dough before baking. Unlike other bagels, which may be plain or have specific flavors like cinnamon or raisin, the everything bagel’s topping is a savory mix that truly makes it stand out.
If you’re craving a savory and crispy side, try making Air Fryer Toast to accompany your bagel toppings.
Here’s a list of the ingredients typically used to make an everything bagel, along with measurements for a standard batch of 8 bagels:
Ingredients of an Everything Bagel:
- For the Bagel Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra richness)
- For the Everything Bagel Topping:
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 2 tablespoons dried onion flakes
- 2 tablespoons dried garlic flakes
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt
These ingredients will create a flavorful, crispy bagel with a delicious topping of the “everything” mixture. You can adjust the topping measurements according to your personal preference, making it more or less savory based on your taste.
How to Make an Everything Bagel
Making your own everything bagels at home is surprisingly simple and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your own batch of delicious, homemade everything bagels.
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups of warm water (110°F) with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Sprinkle 1 packet of active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons) over the water and stir gently. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This activates the yeast.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt. Make a well in the center and pour the activated yeast mixture into the well. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, if desired.
- Form the Dough: Stir the mixture together until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
2: Let the Dough Rise
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise for 1-1.5 hours in a warm place, or until it doubles in size.
3: Shape the Bagels
- Divide the Dough: Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Divide it into 8 equal pieces.
- Shape the Bagels: Roll each piece into a ball. To shape the bagels, poke a hole in the center of each ball with your finger, then stretch the hole with your fingers to form a ring. The hole should be large enough to prevent it from closing up while baking.
4 : Boil the Bagels
- Prepare the Boiling Water: In a large pot, bring a gallon of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional, but it helps with the bagels’ texture). Reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Boil the Bagels: Carefully drop 2-3 bagels at a time into the simmering water. Boil for 1 minute on each side, then remove the bagels with a slotted spoon. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5: Apply the Everything Bagel Topping
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds, 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds, 2 tablespoons of dried onion flakes, 2 tablespoons of dried garlic flakes, and 1 teaspoon of coarse salt.
- Top the Bagels: While the bagels are still wet from boiling, dip each bagel into the everything seasoning mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
6: Bake the Bagels
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bake the Bagels: Place the bagels in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7: Cool and Enjoy
- Cool the Bagels: Remove the bagels from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy your fresh, homemade everything bagels with your favorite toppings like cream cheese, avocado, or smoked salmon.
With this simple process, you’ll have warm, flavorful everything bagels right from your own kitchen!
Need a warm, comforting drink to go with your bagel? Check out the Cinnamon Toast Crunch Shot for a sweet, spiced beverage.
Pairing Your Everything Bagel
Everything bagels are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for a variety of meals throughout the day. Whether you prefer a classic breakfast, a savory lunch, or even a light dinner, these bagels can be paired with a variety of ingredients to suit your taste.
Breakfast Combinations
- Classic Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon:
The combination of smooth cream cheese, salty smoked salmon, and the savory crunch of the everything bagel is a timeless choice. Add a few slices of red onion and capers for an extra burst of flavor. This pairing is perfect for a traditional New York-style breakfast. - Avocado and Egg:
For a nutritious and satisfying breakfast, top your everything bagel with mashed avocado and a poached or scrambled egg. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the rich egg, and the bagel provides a sturdy base that holds everything together. - Peanut Butter and Banana:
For a sweeter breakfast option, spread peanut butter on your everything bagel and top it with banana slices. The nutty flavor of the peanut butter complements the slightly sweet banana, while the savory bagel creates an unexpected yet delicious contrast.
Lunch and Dinner Pairings
- Turkey and Cheese:
A turkey and cheese sandwich on an everything bagel makes for a quick and tasty lunch. Layer thin slices of turkey breast, your favorite cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or provolone work great), and some lettuce for crunch. Add mustard or mayo to suit your taste. - Hummus and Veggies:
For a lighter, vegetarian option, spread hummus on your bagel and top with fresh cucumber slices, tomatoes, and a handful of mixed greens. This makes for a refreshing, nutrient-packed meal, perfect for lunch or dinner. - Chicken Salad:
An everything bagel can also serve as a hearty base for a chicken salad sandwich. Mix cooked, shredded chicken with mayo, mustard, celery, and herbs. The bagel adds a delightful texture that complements the creamy chicken salad perfectly. - Grilled Veggies and Pesto:
For a healthy, veggie-packed meal, top your everything bagel with grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. Add a spread of pesto for an added layer of flavor. This combination works wonderfully for both lunch and dinner.
Snacks and Light Meals
- Mozzarella and Tomato:
Slice your everything bagel and top with fresh mozzarella, tomato slices, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This creates a delicious and light snack or meal that combines savory and tangy flavors. - Spinach and Feta:
A simple yet flavorful option is to spread cream cheese on your bagel and add sautéed spinach and crumbled feta cheese. The creamy texture of the cheese balances the earthy spinach, making this a satisfying and healthy option. - Pastrami and Swiss:
For a deli-inspired pairing, layer pastrami and Swiss cheese on your everything bagel. Add a bit of mustard for a spicy kick and enjoy a satisfying snack or lunch.
Pairing with Drinks
- Coffee or Tea:
Everything bagels pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or tea, especially for breakfast. A classic black coffee or a cappuccino complements the savory flavors of the bagel, while a cup of herbal tea works well for a lighter, more refreshing option. - Fresh Juice or Smoothies:
For a more health-conscious pairing, enjoy your everything bagel with a glass of freshly squeezed juice or a smoothie. Fresh orange juice, green juice, or a fruit smoothie will balance out the savory and filling nature of the bagel.
With all these delicious pairing options, your everything bagel can be the star of any meal. Get creative with your combinations, and enjoy this versatile, flavorful bagel throughout the day!
Benefits of Everything Bagels
Health Benefits
Though everything bagels are typically viewed as an indulgent snack or breakfast item, they actually offer some health benefits. Many of the ingredients used in the topping are rich in nutrients. For example, sesame seeds are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, while poppy seeds contain important minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Additionally, the garlic used in the topping has been linked to various health benefits, including boosting the immune system and lowering cholesterol.
Nutritional Value
The nutritional value of an everything bagel depends on the ingredients used and the portion size. Typically, a standard everything bagel contains around 250-350 calories, depending on its size. It provides a good amount of carbohydrates for energy, along with protein from the seeds and fiber for digestion. However, like most bagels, it can be high in sodium, so it’s important to enjoy them in moderation.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Options
For those with dietary restrictions, there are gluten-free and vegan versions of everything bagels available. These versions use alternative flours and ingredients that still deliver the same delicious flavor without compromising on texture or taste. Gluten-free flour options such as rice flour or almond flour can be used, and vegan toppings (like nutritional yeast instead of cheese) can be swapped in to suit dietary preferences.
Everything Bagels for Weight Loss
While everything bagels may not be the first food you think of when trying to lose weight, they can be part of a balanced diet when eaten in moderation. Pairing an everything bagel with healthy toppings, such as avocado, tomatoes, or a lean protein like turkey, can help make it a filling and nutritious meal.
FAQ’s
- What makes an everything bagel different from other bagels?
- An everything bagel is unique because of its savory topping, which includes sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt. This combination gives it a bold and distinct flavor that sets it apart from other types of bagels.
- Are everything bagels healthy?
- Everything bagels can be part of a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation. They provide a good source of fiber and protein from the seeds, but they can be high in calories and sodium. Pairing them with healthier toppings like avocado or turkey can boost their nutritional value.
- Can I make a gluten-free everything bagel?
- Yes! There are gluten-free everything bagels available in stores, and you can also make your own by using gluten-free flour alternatives like rice flour or almond flour in place of regular flour.
- What is the best way to store everything bagels?
- To keep everything bagels fresh, store them in a paper bag at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the bagels and toast them when you’re ready to eat them.
- Can I freeze everything bagels?
- Yes, you can freeze everything bagels. Once they have cooled completely, place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to eat them, simply toast them for a fresh taste.
- What can I put on an everything bagel?
- Everything bagels are incredibly versatile and can be topped with a variety of spreads and fillings. Some popular choices include cream cheese, smoked salmon, avocado, turkey, or even egg and cheese for a breakfast sandwich.
Conclusion
Everything bagels are a beloved and versatile choice for meals throughout the day. Whether you’re enjoying a classic breakfast pairing with smoked salmon or experimenting with more unique options like grilled veggies or chicken salad, these bagels never disappoint. Their savory topping and chewy texture make them a perfect base for countless combinations.
By following the simple steps to make your own everything bagels at home, you can enjoy fresh, warm bagels tailored to your taste. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a snack, the endless pairing possibilities ensure there’s always something new to try.
So next time you’re craving a bagel, why not go for the everything bagel? It’s not just a bagel; it’s a flavor-packed experience that adds something special to every meal.
Love bagels but want a lighter alternative? Consider Avocado Toast, which offers a nutritious and trendy breakfast option.
Print
The Best Everything Bagel : Perfect for Any Meal
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including rising time)
- Yield: 8 bagels 1x
Description
This homemade everything bagel recipe combines chewy dough with a savory, crunchy topping of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt. It’s easy to make and perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with your favorite spreads, such as cream cheese, avocado, or smoked salmon.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- For Topping:
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 2 tablespoons dried onion flakes
- 2 tablespoons dried garlic flakes
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt
Instructions
- Prepare the dough by mixing warm water, yeast, sugar, and flour. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Let the dough rise for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape the dough into bagels and boil them for 1 minute on each side.
- Top with a mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic flakes, onion flakes, and coarse salt.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour.
- You can store leftovers in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
- Customize the toppings to suit your taste by adding extra herbs or spices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 270kcal
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g