How to Make Everything Bagel Seasoning: Easy 5-Ingredient Recipe at Home

Making your own everything bagel seasoning is quick, easy, and requires only 5 simple ingredients you probably already have. This homemade blend is customizable, cost-effective, and far superior to store-bought versions. Here's how to make it in under 5 minutes.

What Goes Into a Classic Everything Bagel Blend

The magic of an everything bagel lies in its perfect balance of savory, nutty, salty, and slightly sweet flavors. Here's the traditional ingredient list:

• Sesame seeds
• Poppy seeds
• Dried minced onion
• Garlic granules
• Crushed sea salt flakes

This mix gives you texture from the seeds, earthiness from the garlic and onion, and that craveable saltiness that makes every bite sing.

Variations Worth Trying

Flavor Profile	Additions
Extra Garlicky	Add extra garlic powder or roasted garlic bits
Savory Umami Boost	Add a pinch of nutritional yeast or monosodium glutamate (MSG)
Sweet & Salty	Include a touch of brown sugar or smoked paprika

How to Make Everything Bagel Seasoning (Easy Recipe)

Ready to start blending? Here's a simple recipe that takes minutes but delivers maximum flavor:

DIY Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe

• 2 tbsp sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp poppy seeds
• 1 tbsp dried minced onion
• 1 tbsp garlic granules
• 1 tbsp coarse sea salt

1. In a small bowl, combine all ingredients.
2. Stir well until evenly mixed.
3. Store in an airtight container away from heat and light.

Pro Tip:

Toasting the sesame and poppy seeds first intensifies their nutty flavor. Just spread them on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 4–5 minutes. Stir often to avoid burning.

Spice Storage Tips: Keep Your Mix Fresh Longer

Spices don't go bad per se, but they do lose potency over time. Proper storage is key to keeping your everything bagel blend bursting with flavor.

Best Storage Practices

• Air-tight containers: Mason jars or spice tins work great.
• Cool, dark place: Avoid placing near stoves or windows where heat and sunlight can degrade flavor.
• Label & date: Helps you track freshness and usage frequency.

Shelf Life Comparison

Storage Method	Estimated Shelf Life
Plastic shaker bottle	3–6 months
Glass jar with lid	6–9 months
Vacuum sealed container	Up to 1 year

Creative Ways to Use Everything Bagel Seasoning Beyond Bagels

Think beyond breakfast! The beauty of everything bagel seasoning is its versatility. Here are some unexpected yet delicious uses:

• Avocado Toast Upgrade: Sprinkle over smashed avocado on toast for a savory kick.
• Roasted Veggie Perfection: Toss carrots, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts with olive oil and sprinkle before roasting.
• Egg Enhancer: Add to scrambled eggs, omelets, or deviled eggs for extra zing.
• Pizza Finale: Use as a finishing topping on homemade pizza or flatbreads.
• Meat Rub: Sprinkle over grilled chicken, steak, or salmon before cooking.
• Popcorn Surprise: Toss freshly popped popcorn with melted butter and a generous amount of seasoning.

Buying Guide: Best Store-Bought Everything Bagel Blends

If you're short on time or want to compare store options before making your own, here are some top-rated blends that deliver consistent flavor and quality.

Top 5 Everything Bagel Blends Compared

Brand	Features	Advantages	Best For	Occasion
McCormick Everything Bagel Seasoning	Premixed with balanced seed-to-salt ratio	Convenient, widely available	Busy cooks who want quick results	Everyday use
Badia Everything Bagel Mix	Includes black sesame seeds for unique look and taste	Versatile, affordable, gluten-free	Those looking for ethnic grocery options	Weeknight meals
Williams Sonoma Everything Bagel Seasoning	Artisan-grade, premium ingredients	Luxury finish, gourmet appeal	Gift-giving or special occasions	Dinner parties or brunches
Spice Islands Everything Bagel Blend	Organic certified, non-GMO	Health-conscious consumers	Wellness-focused lifestyles	Healthy snacks or smoothie bowls
Penzeys Everything Bagel Seasoning	Bold flavor profile, no fillers	High-quality spices, bulk pricing available	Home chefs who cook frequently	Batch cooking or meal prepping

Frequently Asked Questions About Everything Bagel Seasoning

Common Questions About Making and Using Everything Bagel Seasoning

Many people searching for "how to make everything bagels" find this guide to the seasoning blend instead. Here are answers to common questions about everything bagel seasoning that clarify this distinction and address related concerns:

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

Everything bagels are the actual bread product with seeds and seasonings baked into the dough and on top. Everything bagel seasoning is the dry spice mix containing sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt that's used on top of bagels. This article focuses on making the seasoning blend, not the bagels themselves.

Can I use everything bagel seasoning to make actual everything bagels?

Yes! While this article focuses on the seasoning blend, you can use this mix on homemade bagels. After shaping your bagels and boiling them, brush with egg wash and generously sprinkle with the seasoning before baking.

How much seasoning should I use per bagel?

For best results, use about 1-2 tablespoons of seasoning per standard-sized bagel. Make sure to press the seasoning gently into the egg wash so it adheres properly during baking.

Can I make everything bagel seasoning without salt?

Yes, though salt is a key component of the traditional flavor profile. You can reduce or omit the salt and add more seeds or garlic/onion instead. For a salt substitute, try adding a pinch of celery seed which has natural sodium content.

Is everything bagel seasoning gluten-free?

Yes, the basic seasoning blend is naturally gluten-free as it contains only seeds, dried vegetables, and salt. However, always check labels if buying pre-made blends, as some brands may process their spices in facilities that handle wheat.

How can I make everything bagel seasoning at home without special equipment?

You don't need any special equipment! Simply mix the ingredients in a small bowl with a spoon. For toasting seeds, a regular skillet or baking sheet in your oven works perfectly.

Can I use fresh garlic and onion instead of dried?

For a dry seasoning blend, dried ingredients are essential for proper storage. Fresh garlic and onion contain moisture that would cause the seasoning to spoil. Stick with dried minced onion and garlic granules for best results.

What's the best way to apply everything bagel seasoning to foods?

For best adherence, apply to foods with some moisture content - like avocado toast, cream cheese, or egg wash on bagels. For dry foods like roasted vegetables or popcorn, toss with a small amount of oil or melted butter first.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Everyday Dishes with One Magic Mix

Learning how to make everything bagel seasoning opens the door to a world of culinary creativity. Whether you opt to make your own custom blend or choose a trusted brand, having this magical mix on hand ensures every meal gets a flavor boost.

From morning toast to midnight popcorn, there's no dish that can't benefit from a little sprinkle of everything. So stock your spice rack, experiment with variations, and let this humble seasoning become your new kitchen MVP.