Prep time: 1 h 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern / American
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups bread flour; 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast; 1 ½ tsp salt; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 cup warm water; 1 tbsp olive oil; Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water); Sesame seeds, thyme, rosemary (for topping)

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Soft Savory Bagels with Herbs and Sesame are a delightful twist on the classic bagel. These golden, pillowy rounds are enhanced with fragrant herbs and a delicate sprinkle of sesame seeds, creating a well-balanced blend of flavor and texture. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, they pair beautifully with cream cheese, dips, or even a slice of smoked salmon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These savory bagels are perfect for anyone who appreciates freshly baked bread with a gourmet touch. They offer a soft, chewy texture inside with a beautifully crisp crust, thanks to the egg wash and topping combination. The herbs provide an aromatic lift, while sesame seeds add a nutty finish. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day, these bagels are incredibly satisfying.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Warm water
Instant yeast
Sugar
Salt
Olive oil
Egg (for egg wash)
Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary)
Sesame seeds
Optional: red pepper flakes or black sesame seeds for additional flavor and color

directions

In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix and knead into a smooth dough.
Cover and allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions. Shape each into a smooth ball and poke a hole in the center to form a bagel shape.
Place the bagels on a lined baking sheet. Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush the bagels with egg wash, then sprinkle with sesame seeds, chopped herbs, and optional spices.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 bagels.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: Around 2 hours

Variations

Cheese-filled: Add shredded mozzarella or feta inside the dough before shaping.
Spicy kick: Sprinkle red chili flakes or black pepper on top for a bolder flavor.
Garlic and herb: Incorporate garlic powder into the dough and top with mixed dried herbs.
Everything bagels: Use a blend of poppy seeds, onion flakes, and garlic flakes as toppings.
Whole wheat: Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.

storage/reheating

Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped for up to 2 months.
To reheat, simply toast them in a toaster or warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.

FAQs

How do I ensure the bagels are soft inside?

Make sure not to overbake them and keep the dough well-hydrated and properly proofed before baking.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but use them sparingly as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Do I need to boil the bagels before baking?

This recipe skips boiling to keep the texture soft, making it quicker and easier than traditional bagel recipes.

What herbs work best with this recipe?

Thyme, rosemary, oregano, and dill all complement the bagel’s flavor well.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Bring it to room temperature before shaping.

Are these bagels suitable for vegans?

Replace the egg wash with a plant-based milk or oil and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.

What can I serve these bagels with?

They pair wonderfully with cream cheese, hummus, scrambled eggs, or grilled vegetables.

How do I keep the toppings from falling off?

Gently press the herbs and seeds into the egg wash before baking to help them stick better.

Can I add other toppings?

Yes, try adding grated cheese, poppy seeds, or sun-dried tomatoes for variety.

Why did my bagels turn out dense?

This may be due to under-proofing or over-kneading the dough. Ensure proper rise and avoid adding too much flour.

Conclusion

Soft Savory Bagels with Herbs and Sesame are a flavorful, aromatic, and easy-to-make addition to your baking repertoire. With a tender crumb and crisp, golden crust, they offer the perfect balance of texture and taste. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated, these bagels are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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Author: Mariem
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 8 bagels

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Description

These Soft Savory Bagels are fluffy, flavorful, and topped with aromatic herbs and sesame seeds. Ideal for breakfast sandwiches or enjoying with cream cheese and herbs.