Sesame Bagels

The delicious aroma of freshly baked bagels wafting through your kitchen is an experience like no other. These homemade sesame bagels are incredibly satisfying to make and delightfully chewy to eat.
With a touch of honey for sweetness and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that delightful crunch, they make the perfect breakfast or snack any time of day.
Let’s dive into this easy recipe and bring a taste of the bagel shop right into your home!

Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Servings: 8 bagels
- Difficulty Level: Medium
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 250
- Protein: 8 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50 grams
- Fat: 1.5 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Sodium: 320 mg
Why I Love This Sesame Bagels
These sesame bagels hold a special place in my heart because they remind me of cozy Sunday mornings spent in the kitchen.
There’s something magical about watching the dough rise and the anticipation of that first bite.
They are soft, slightly chewy, and topped with crunchy sesame seeds, which add the perfect contrast.
Plus, making bagels is a fun project to do with friends or family. Roll up your sleeves and get ready to create something delicious!

Ingredients
4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water
1/4 cup sesame seeds
1 tablespoon honey (for boiling)
How to Make Sesame Bagels
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast; let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth. It should feel elastic and a little tacky.
Step 4: Let It Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Step 6: Shape the Bagels
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and poke a hole in the center to form a bagel shape.
Step 7: Boil the Bagels
In a pot, bring water and honey to a boil. Boil each bagel for about 30 seconds on each side, then remove and place on a baking sheet.
Step 8: Add the Toppings
Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of each bagel, pressing them down gently to adhere.
Step 9: Bake the Bagels
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. They should be puffed up and have a lovely golden hue.
Step 10: Let Cool Before Serving
Allow the bagels to cool on a wire rack before serving. They’re best enjoyed fresh!
Tips & Variations
- Extra Crunch: For an extra crunch, toast the sesame seeds before sprinkling them on the bagels.
- Serving Ideas: Serve them warm with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or avocado slices for a satisfying meal.
- Diet Adjustments: For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Storing Leftovers: Bagels can be sliced and stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just toast them straight from the freezer for a quick treat!
Delicious Variations
- Everything Bagels: Toss in a mix of poppy seeds, onion flakes, and garlic powder for a classic everything bagel flavor.
- Cinnamon Raisin Bagels: Add cinnamon and raisins to the dough for a sweet breakfast option.
- Cheese Bagels: Incorporate shredded cheese directly into the dough or top them with your favorite cheese before baking.
Serving Suggestions for Sesame Bagels
Enjoy these sesame bagels warm, fresh from the oven, or slightly toasted. They’re perfect for breakfast with some butter or cream cheese. Pair them with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a cozy start to your day. They also make a hearty addition to a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and yogurt.
Storage and Leftovers
Store your sesame bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, slice them and place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply toast them straight from the freezer!
Helpful Questions
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast one-for-one for active dry yeast. Just mix it with the dry ingredients instead of activating it first.How do I know if my dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size and feel airy. You can also poke a finger into it; if the indentation remains, it’s ready!What if my bagels spread while boiling?
Make sure to give the bagels enough time to rise and shape them tightly. If they do spread, you can reshape them after boiling.Can I add toppings to the bagels before boiling?
It’s best to add and press on the toppings after boiling for better adherence and crunch.Is it necessary to boil the bagels?
Yes, boiling gives bagels their chewy texture. Skip this step, and you may end up with bread-like bagels instead!
These homemade sesame bagels are sure to become a family favorite, whether enjoyed with a simple spread or loaded with toppings. Happy baking!
Print
Homemade Sesame Bagels
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 bagels 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious homemade sesame bagels with a touch of honey and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon honey (for boiling)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast; let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and poke a hole in the center.
- In a pot, bring water and honey to a boil. Boil each bagel for about 30 seconds on each side, then remove and place on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of each bagel, pressing them down gently.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow the bagels to cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
For extra crunch, toast the sesame seeds before using. Store sliced bagels in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 1.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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