“Everything Bagel Bits” are the perfect popable, bite-sized version of the beloved everything bagel. They capture all that savory, garlicky, oniony, seedy goodness in a convenient little package that’s great for snacking, parties, or breakfast on the go.
I’ll give you two fantastic ways to make these: one using a simple dough from scratch, and one using a clever shortcut with crescent rolls.
Option 1: Homemade Everything Bagel Bites (From Scratch)
This recipe gives you that authentic bagel texture—chewy on the inside with a slightly crisp exterior. It requires a bit more time, but the result is worth it.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
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1 cup (240ml) warm water (about 110°F / 45°C)
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2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
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1 tablespoon granulated sugar
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2¾ cups (345g) bread flour (high protein flour is best for chewiness)
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1½ teaspoons salt
For the Water Bath:
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2 quarts (2 liters) water
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2 tablespoons honey or barley malt syrup
For the Topping:
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1 egg white, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
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3 tablespoons Everything Bagel Seasoning (store-bought or homemade, see recipe below)
Homemade Everything Bagel Seasoning Mix:
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1 tablespoon poppy seeds
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds
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1 tablespoon dried minced garlic
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1 tablespoon dried minced onion
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2 teaspoons coarse salt (like kosher or sea salt)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
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In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
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In a large bowl or stand mixer with a dough hook, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
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Knead for 8-10 minutes (by hand or with mixer) until the dough is smooth and elastic.
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Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape the Bites
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Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
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Roll the dough into a long log and cut it into 4 equal pieces. Then cut each piece into 6-8 small pieces, aiming for bite-sized (about 1 inch / 2.5 cm).
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Roll each piece into a smooth ball. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely, and let rest for 20-30 minutes.
Step 3: The Bagel Bath (This is what makes them bagels!)
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) .
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Bring the 2 quarts of water and honey to a boil in a large pot.
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Drop the dough balls into the boiling water in batches (don’t overcrowd). Boil for 30 seconds on each side.
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Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Add the Topping
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While still warm and slightly tacky, brush the top of each ball with the egg wash.
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Generously sprinkle with Everything Bagel Seasoning, pressing gently so it sticks.
Step 5: Bake
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Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bites are deep golden brown.
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Let them cool on a wire rack before serving.
Option 2: Quick & Easy Crescent Roll Everything Bagel Bites
This method is perfect for when you want that everything bagel flavor right now. It uses crescent roll dough for a flaky, buttery twist.
Ingredients
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1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
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4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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3 tablespoons Everything Bagel Seasoning
Instructions
Step 1: Prep
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
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Unroll the crescent dough and press the perforations together to seal them into a single sheet of dough.
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Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 24 small squares (about 1.5 inches each).
Step 3: Assemble
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Place a tiny dab (about ¼ teaspoon) of softened cream cheese in the center of each square.
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Gather the four corners of the dough and pinch them together at the top, forming a little bundle. Make sure the cream cheese is sealed inside.
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Place the bundles seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Top and Bake
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Brush the top of each bundle with the beaten egg.
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Generously sprinkle with Everything Bagel Seasoning.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. The cream cheese filling will be very hot!
Serving & Storage Ideas
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Dip Them: Serve with softened cream cheese (maybe mixed with chives), smoked salmon dip, or even a spicy mustard.
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Breakfast Sandwich: Slice a few in half and add a tiny scrambled egg and a piece of bacon for a mini breakfast sandwich.
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Freezer-Friendly (Both Options): Cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
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Make Ahead: You can prepare the homemade dough bites up through the shaping step, then refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before boiling and baking.