Everything Bagel Recipe

Freshly baked everything bagels with sesame and poppy seeds on a wooden board

Everything bagel lovers know there’s something special about that first bite—the chewy crust, the savory crunch, and the bold seasoning that hits all the right notes. Whether you grab one on your way to work or toast one at home with cream cheese, the everything bagel has become a breakfast staple for a reason. However, making it from scratch is an entirely different experience, and honestly, it’s more rewarding than you might expect.

Why This Everything Bagel Recipe Works

This recipe is designed for home cooks who want professional results without complicated techniques. Here’s why it delivers consistently great bagels:

  • Uses the traditional boiling method for authentic chewiness
  • Balanced seasoning blend for classic everything bagel flavor
  • Simple ingredients you likely already have
  • Easy-to-follow steps with no guesswork
  • Produces bakery-style texture without special equipment
  • Adaptable for beginners and experienced bakers

Everything Bagel Recipe

Recipe at a Glance

Prep TimeCook TimeTotal TimeServingsCuisineDifficulty
25 minutes25 minutes1 hour 50 minutes8 bagelsAmericanMedium

Equipment – Amazon’s Overall Picks

Kitchen in the Box Stand Mixer (3.2Qt)

Kitchen in the Box Stand Mixer

If you want perfectly kneaded dough without the arm workout, the Kitchen in the Box 3.2Qt Stand Mixer is a smart choice for home bakers. Its compact size makes it ideal for everyday use, while the powerful motor handles bagel dough with ease.

Everything Bagel Ingredients

IngredientQuantity
Bread flour4 cups
Warm water1½ cups
Instant yeast2¼ tsp
Sugar or barley malt syrup1 tbsp
Salt2 tsp
Baking soda (for boiling)1 tbsp
Egg (for egg wash)1
Sesame seeds1 tbsp
Poppy seeds1 tbsp
Dried garlic1 tsp
Dried onion1 tsp
Ingredients for homemade everything bagels arranged on a marble surface

Ingredient Tips and Substitutes

  • Bread flour gives the best chewy texture, but all-purpose flour works in a pinch.
  • Barley malt syrup adds authentic flavor, although honey or brown sugar can replace it.
  • For a vegan version, skip the egg wash and brush with water instead.
  • Use coarse salt for extra crunch and flavor contrast.
  • Store-bought everything bagel seasoning can be used, but homemade tastes fresher.

Everything Bagel Recipe Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast
    In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough
    Add flour and salt. Mix until a firm dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. First rise
    Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 60–75 minutes until doubled.
  4. Shape the bagels
    Divide dough into 8 pieces. Roll into balls, poke a hole in the center, and stretch gently.
  5. Boil the bagels
    Bring water to a boil and add baking soda. Boil bagels for 30–45 seconds per side.
  6. Add toppings
    Brush with egg wash and coat generously with everything seasoning.
  7. Bake
    Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Cool and serve
    Allow to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Four-step visual guide showing how to make everything bagel recipe from dough to baking

Chef’s Tips and Variations

  • For extra chewy bagels, refrigerate the dough overnight.
  • For a crispier crust, bake on a preheated baking stone.
  • Add shredded cheese for a savory twist.
  • Make mini bagels for brunch platters or meal prep.
  • Toast before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Side angle view of stacked everything bagel with visible crumb

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Nutrition Information

NutrientAmount (Per Bagel)
Calories285 kcal
Carbohydrates55 g
Protein10 g
Fat3 g
Fiber2 g
Sodium410 mg

FAQs – Everything Bagel Recipe

What’s in everything bagel seasoning?

Classic everything bagel seasoning contains sesame seeds (both white and black), poppy seeds, dried minced garlic, dried minced onion, and coarse salt. Some blends also include caraway seeds or flaked sea salt for added texture and flavor.

How many calories in an everything bagel?

A standard medium-sized everything bagel (about 105g) contains approximately 290-350 calories. The exact count depends on the size, specific recipe, and any added toppings like extra seeds or a thick schmear.

Do everything bagels have poppy seeds?

Yes, poppy seeds are a defining ingredient in traditional everything bagel seasoning. Therefore, an authentic everything bagel will always include poppy seeds as part of its signature seed and spice blend.

Final Thoughts on This Everything Bagel Recipe

Making everything bagels at home may seem intimidating at first, but once you try it, you’ll realize how rewarding it is. The aroma, the texture, and the flavor are far better than anything store-bought. Plus, you have full control over the ingredients and seasoning.

Whether you enjoy them toasted with cream cheese or turned into breakfast sandwiches, this everything bagel recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. Once you master it, you may never go back to store-bought bagels.


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