Everything Spice Bagels – Morton & Bassett
There is something truly special about freshly baked bagels. Their golden-brown crust, soft and chewy centers, and generous coating of crunchy seeds make them a delicious choice for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying snack. These homemade seeded bagels are inspired by the beautiful, generously topped bagels in the picture, featuring sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and a flavorful blend of seasonings.
The best part? You can make them at home with simple ingredients and a little patience. Whether you enjoy them toasted with butter, spread with cream cheese, or filled with eggs and cheese, these bagels are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
In this recipe, you will learn how to prepare the dough, shape the bagels, boil them for that classic chewy texture, and bake them until beautifully golden.
Why You Will Love This Seeded Bagel Recipe
- Crispy outside and chewy inside: Boiling the bagels before baking creates their signature texture.
- Packed with seeds: Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and optional flax or sunflower seeds add crunch and flavor.
- Simple ingredients: You only need everyday baking staples.
- Perfect for meal prep: Bake a batch and enjoy homemade bagels throughout the week.
- Easy to customize: Change the seed mixture or add your favorite savory toppings.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Prep time
25 minutes
Rising time
1–1½ hours
Cooking time
20–25 minutes
Total time
About 2 hours
Yield: 8 medium-sized bagels
Ingredients for Homemade Seeded Bagels
Homemade Sesame Bagels Recipe
For the dough
- 500 g bread flour (approximately 4 cups, depending on how it is measured)
- 300 ml lukewarm water
- 7 g instant yeast (about 2¼ teaspoons)
- 2 tablespoons sugar or honey
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional)
For boiling
- 2 liters water
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking soda (optional, for a deeper golden crust)
For the seed topping
- 4 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon flaxseeds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic granules (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried onion flakes (optional)
- A pinch of salt
You can adjust the topping according to your taste. For bagels similar to the photograph, use a generous mixture of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and savory seasonings.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Instructions: How to Make Sesame Seed Bagels — FarmSteady
Step 1: Prepare the dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually pour in the lukewarm water while mixing until a rough dough forms.
Add the optional oil and mix until everything comes together. The dough should feel firm and slightly tacky rather than wet and sticky.
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Step 2: Knead until smooth
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and firm.
Proper kneading develops the gluten that gives bagels their distinctive chewy texture. If the dough is excessively dry, add water a teaspoon at a time.
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Step 3: Let the dough rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
Leave it in a warm place for approximately 60–90 minutes, or until it has noticeably expanded. Bagel dough does not always double as dramatically as softer bread dough, so look for a clear increase in volume.
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Step 4: Shape the bagels
Divide the dough into eight equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball, then poke a hole through the center with your thumb.
Gently stretch the hole until it measures approximately 3–4 cm across. Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking tray, leaving space between them.
Cover and rest for another 15–20 minutes.
Homemade Bagels Recipe (Easy & Classic) | The Kitchn
Step 5: Boil the bagels
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F), or 200°C for a fan-assisted oven.
Bring the water, honey or sugar, and optional baking soda to a gentle boil. Carefully lower two or three bagels into the water at a time.
Boil for 30–45 seconds per side, then remove them with a slotted spoon and let the excess water drain. Boiling helps create the chewy exterior that distinguishes bagels from ordinary bread rolls.
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Step 6: Add the seed topping
Mix the sesame seeds, poppy seeds, sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, and optional dried seasonings in a shallow bowl.
While the bagels are still damp, press the tops firmly into the seed mixture. You can also sprinkle extra seeds over the surface for a thick, bakery-style coating.
Arrange the bagels on the prepared tray, seed-side up.
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Step 7: Bake until golden
Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning the tray if necessary for even browning.
The bagels should have a rich golden-brown color, a firm crust, and a delicious toasted-seed aroma. If they brown too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly.
Transfer them to a wire rack and allow them to cool for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing.
Tips for Perfect Bakery-Style Bagels
1. Use bread flour if possible. Its higher protein content helps create a stronger gluten structure and a pleasantly chewy texture.
2. Keep the dough firm. Bagel dough is usually stiffer than standard sandwich-bread dough. Adding too much water can make shaping difficult.
3. Do not skip boiling. This step is essential for the traditional bagel crust and dense, chewy interior.
4. Apply seeds while the surface is wet. The moisture helps the topping adhere without requiring an egg wash.
5. Be generous with the topping. For the appearance shown in the photograph, cover the upper surface thoroughly with mixed seeds.
6. Let the bagels cool before cutting. Slicing them while very hot can compress the soft interior and make the crumb gummy.
How to Serve Seeded Bagels
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These homemade bagels are versatile and taste delicious with both simple and elaborate fillings.
- Classic breakfast: Serve toasted with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite jam.
- Egg and cheese sandwich: Fill with a fried egg, melted cheese, and black pepper.
- Fresh and healthy: Add avocado, tomato, cucumber, and cream cheese.
- Savory lunch: Use the bagels for chicken, tuna, or grilled vegetable sandwiches.
- Tea-time snack: Enjoy them warm with butter and a cup of tea or coffee.
For an extra-special breakfast, slice a bagel in half, toast it lightly, and spread cream cheese over the cut sides. Add cucumber slices and a sprinkle of black pepper for a refreshing, savory combination.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store completely cooled bagels in an airtight bag or container at room temperature for up to 2 days for the best quality.
For longer storage, slice the bagels in half and freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. You can toast the frozen halves directly without fully thawing them first.
Avoid refrigerating bagels unless necessary, as refrigeration can make bread stale more quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bagels without bread flour?
Yes. All-purpose flour will work, although the bagels may have a slightly softer texture. Bread flour generally produces a chewier result.
Why do bagels need to be boiled before baking?
Boiling sets the outer layer of dough before baking, helping produce the characteristic chewy crust and dense interior.
Can I use only sesame seeds?
Absolutely. You can use sesame seeds alone or combine them with poppy seeds, flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, dried onion, and garlic.
How can I make the seeds stick better?
Apply the topping immediately after boiling, while the bagels are still damp. Press gently so the seeds adhere well.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes. After shaping the bagels, cover and refrigerate them overnight. The next day, check that they have not overproofed, then boil and bake. If they are very cold and firm, allow them to sit briefly at room temperature first.
Final Thoughts
Homemade seeded bagels are worth the effort. With their golden crust, chewy centers, and generous coating of crunchy seeds, they bring bakery-style flavor straight to your kitchen. The recipe uses simple ingredients and a straightforward method, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced home bakers.
Once you master the basic dough, experiment with different seed combinations, savory seasonings, and sandwich fillings. Freshly baked and served warm, these bagels are a wonderful addition to any breakfast table.
Try this recipe for your next weekend breakfast, and enjoy the irresistible aroma of homemade bread coming straight from your oven!
Would you also like to explore these variations? Whole wheat seeded bagels or Pakistani bakery-style bagels
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