Here is a clear, straightforward recipe for Everything Bagel Bits — soft, chewy mini bagel bites coated in everything seasoning, with or without cream-cheese filling.
Everything Bagel Bits
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant or active dry yeast
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Boiling
- 6 cups water
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or 1 tablespoon baking soda
For Topping
- 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
- Everything bagel seasoning
Optional Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, cold and cut into small cubes
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
- Stir warm water, sugar, and yeast together. Let sit 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead 3–5 minutes until smooth.
- Cover and let rise for about 45–60 minutes or until doubled.
Step 2: Prepare Filling (Optional)
- Cut cold cream cheese into small cubes (about ½ inch).
- Keep refrigerated so it stays firm during shaping.
Step 3: Shape the Bagel Bits
- Punch down the dough and divide into 16 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece into a small disk.
- If filling, place a cream cheese cube in the center and pinch edges tightly to seal.
- Roll into smooth balls.
Step 4: Boil the Bits
- Bring water and brown sugar or baking soda to a boil.
- Drop dough balls into boiling water for 30 seconds.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Top and Bake
- Brush each piece with egg wash.
- Sprinkle generously with everything bagel seasoning.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown.
Serve
- Great warm with cream cheese, ranch, or garlic butter.
- Store in an airtight container; reheat at 350°F for 5 minutes.
Tips
- Make sure filled dough is sealed well so cream cheese doesn’t leak.
- Boiling with baking soda gives a deeper “bagel shop” flavor.
- These freeze very well.
If you want, I can also give:
- A homemade everything seasoning recipe
- A cinnamon sugar bagel bite variation
- A stuffed jalapeño cheddar version
Just tell me!
