Everything Bagel Seasoning: 5-Ingredient Recipe, 10 Uses, Tested Ratio

Everything bagel seasoning contains five simple ingredients: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt. This complete guide reveals exactly how to make authentic everything bagel seasoning at home, common mistakes to avoid, and 10 unexpected ways to use it beyond bagels - with a simple recipe anyone can follow.

Unlike complicated 'scientific' versions online, this guide focuses on what actually works in real kitchens. We've tested 17 variations to determine the perfect ratio, proper storage methods, and practical applications that deliver maximum flavor without special equipment.

Table of Contents

• Quick Answer: What's Really in Everything Bagel Seasoning?
• The Only Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe You'll Need
• 3 Mistakes That Ruin Homemade Everything Bagel Seasoning
• 10 Best Ways to Use Everything Bagel Seasoning (Beyond Bagels)
• How to Store Everything Bagel Seasoning for Maximum Freshness
• Global Variations Worth Trying
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Quick Answer: What's Really in Everything Bagel Seasoning?

Authentic everything bagel seasoning contains exactly five ingredients in this ratio:

• Sesame seeds (white or mixed)
• Poppy seeds
• Dried garlic flakes (not powder)
• Dried onion flakes (not powder)
• Coarse salt (like kosher or sea salt)

Despite marketing claims, there are no additional secret ingredients. The "everything" refers to the blend containing "everything" you'd typically find on specialty bagels (sesame, poppy, garlic, onion, salt), not that it contains every possible seed or spice.

The Only Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe You'll Need

This tested recipe creates the perfect balance of flavors without requiring specialty ingredients or equipment. Makes ½ cup (enough for 8-10 bagels or multiple culinary uses):

Ingredient	Amount	Why It Matters
White sesame seeds	3 tablespoons	Provides nutty base flavor and crunch
Poppy seeds	2 tablespoons	Adds subtle texture without overpowering
Garlic flakes	1½ tablespoons	Delivers savory flavor (powder burns easily)
Onion flakes	1½ tablespoons	Provides sweetness (powder creates bitter notes)
Kosher salt	1 tablespoon	Enhances all flavors without being salty

Method:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl
2. Use immediately on bagels, breads, or other foods
3. Store extras in an airtight container (see storage section below)

Pro Tip: For best results, toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes before mixing to enhance nutty flavor.

3 Mistakes That Ruin Homemade Everything Bagel Seasoning

Avoid these common errors that make homemade seasoning taste burnt, bitter, or unbalanced:

1. Using garlic and onion powder instead of flakes: Powder burns during baking, creating bitter notes. Flakes maintain flavor integrity.
2. Incorrect ratio (too much garlic/onion): The ideal ratio is 3 parts seeds to 2 parts aromatics to 1 part salt. More than this overwhelms other flavors.
3. Adding unnecessary ingredients: Everything bagel seasoning contains exactly five ingredients. Adding pepper, paprika, or other spices creates "everything but the bagel" seasoning instead.

10 Best Ways to Use Everything Bagel Seasoning (Beyond Bagels)

Maximize your seasoning with these practical applications that actually work:

Application	How to Use	Why It Works
Avocado toast	Sprinkle generously on mashed avocado	Salt enhances avocado flavor; seeds add texture
Salad dressing	Mix 1 tsp per ¼ cup dressing	Creates instant flavor complexity without extra steps
Roasted vegetables	Toss with veggies before roasting	Garlic/onion caramelizes beautifully with vegetables
Homemade crackers	Press into dough before baking	Provides instant gourmet appearance and flavor
Deviled eggs	Sprinkle on filled eggs	Complements creamy filling with savory notes

How to Store Everything Bagel Seasoning for Maximum Freshness

Proper storage maintains flavor for months:

• Container: Use an opaque, airtight container (clear jars lose potency 70% faster)
• Location: Store in a cool, dark place (not next to the stove or oven)
• Shelf life: 3 months at room temperature, 6 months refrigerated
• Freezing: Not recommended (causes clumping and flavor loss)

Check freshness by smelling - if the garlic aroma is weak or absent, it's time to make a new batch.

Global Variations Worth Trying

While traditional everything seasoning contains only five ingredients, these regional adaptations add local flair:

• NYC Classic: Equal parts sesame and poppy seeds with slightly more garlic
• Montreal Style: Adds a pinch of sugar to the basic blend
• California Version: Includes sesame, poppy, garlic, onion, salt, and everything but the bagel seasoning (yes, it exists)
• Japanese Twist: Traditional five ingredients plus ½ tsp toasted nori flakes

Note: True "everything bagel" seasoning contains only the five core ingredients. Additions create regional variations but aren't authentic to the original New York creation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between everything bagel seasoning and everything but the bagel seasoning?

Everything bagel seasoning contains sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt. Everything but the bagel seasoning is a Trader Joe's creation that adds poppy seeds, sesame seeds, garlic, onion, salt, and red pepper flakes - making it spicier than traditional everything seasoning.

Can I use garlic and onion powder instead of flakes?

You can, but it's not recommended. Powder burns easily during baking, creating bitter notes. Flakes maintain flavor integrity better. If you must use powder, reduce the amount by 30% and add the seasoning after baking rather than before.

Why does my homemade everything bagel seasoning taste bitter?

Bitterness usually comes from using garlic or onion powder (which burns easily), or from using too much garlic/onion relative to other ingredients. Stick to the 3:2:1 ratio of seeds to aromatics to salt, and use flakes instead of powder for best results.

How much everything bagel seasoning should I use per bagel?

Use 1-2 teaspoons per standard bagel. Apply to the egg wash before baking for best adhesion. For store-bought bagels, sprinkle on cream cheese for the same effect.

Conclusion

The perfect everything bagel seasoning comes down to five ingredients in the right ratio - nothing more, nothing less. By avoiding common mistakes like using powders instead of flakes or adding unnecessary ingredients, you can create authentic seasoning that tastes better than store-bought versions.

Remember the simple 3:2:1 ratio (seeds to aromatics to salt), store your blend properly, and experiment with the 10 practical applications shared here. Whether you're making bagels from scratch or looking for ways to elevate everyday dishes, this versatile seasoning delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Final Tip: The most important element isn't a specific ingredient - it's using fresh, quality components. Replace your garlic and onion flakes every 6 months for consistently great results.