If you’re looking for a crunchy, savory snack that’s incredibly easy to make, Everything Bagel Bits are the perfect choice. Made from plain bagels tossed with olive oil and a classic everything bagel seasoning blend, these bite-sized crackers bake until golden and crisp. They’re perfect for snacking, dipping, adding to soups, or serving on a charcuterie board.
With just a handful of pantry staples and less than 30 minutes from start to finish, these homemade bagel bites are fresher, crispier, and more flavorful than store-bought crackers. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up day-old bagels.
What Are Everything Bagel Bits?
Everything Bagel Bits are crispy baked pieces of bagel coated in olive oil and seasoned with a blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic powder, onion powder, and coarse sea salt. As they bake, the bagel pieces become crunchy on the outside while developing rich toasted flavors.
They’re similar to homemade croutons but packed with the signature taste of everything bagel seasoning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a favorite because it’s:
- Quick and easy to make
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Crispy and flavorful
- Great for using leftover bagels
- Perfect for snacking
- Ideal for soups and salads
- Easy to customize
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
Whether you’re entertaining or meal prepping snacks, these crunchy bites are always a hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 plain bagels
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt, or to taste
Optional Additions
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
These optional ingredients add even more flavor and variety.
How to Make Everything Bagel Bits
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Position a rack in the center of the oven for even browning.
Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Cut the Bagels
Using a serrated knife, cut each bagel into bite-sized pieces about ½ to ¾ inch wide.
Don’t worry if some pieces are slightly rounded due to the shape of the bagel.
The key is keeping the pieces similar in size so they bake evenly.
Step 3: Coat with Olive Oil
Place the bagel pieces into a large mixing bowl.
Drizzle the olive oil over the pieces.
Gently toss until every piece is lightly coated.
A thin layer of oil helps the seasoning stick while promoting even browning.
Step 4: Prepare the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine:
- Sesame seeds
- Poppy seeds
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Coarse sea salt
If using dried dill or crushed red pepper, mix them in now.
Combining the spices first helps distribute the flavors evenly.
Step 5: Season the Bagels
Gradually sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the oiled bagel pieces.
Toss gently between additions until every piece is evenly coated.
Step 6: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Spread the seasoned bagel pieces into a single layer.
Separate any pieces that are touching or stacked.
If needed, use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.
Proper spacing allows the bagels to become crisp instead of steaming.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 12 to 18 minutes.
Every 5 to 6 minutes, stir the bagel pieces with a spatula to encourage even browning.
The Bagel Bits are finished when they are:
- Golden brown
- Crisp around the edges
- Dry to the touch
Remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely before serving.
Tips for Perfect Bagel Bits
Use Slightly Stale Bagels
Day-old bagels bake into extra-crispy bites.
Cut Evenly
Uniform pieces bake at the same rate.
Avoid Too Much Oil
A light coating is enough for crispness without making the pieces greasy.
Stir During Baking
Turning the pieces helps every side become evenly toasted.
Flavor Variations
Parmesan Garlic
Add grated Parmesan before baking.
Spicy Everything
Mix crushed red pepper flakes into the seasoning.
Ranch Style
Add dried parsley, dill, onion powder, and garlic powder.
Italian Herb
Use oregano, basil, thyme, and Parmesan cheese.
Cinnamon Sugar
Skip the savory seasoning and toss the bagels with cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter for a sweet version.
Serving Ideas
Everything Bagel Bits are delicious served with:
Dips
- Cream cheese dip
- Spinach dip
- Hummus
- Buffalo chicken dip
- Ranch dressing
Soups
- Tomato soup
- Broccoli cheddar soup
- Potato soup
- Chicken noodle soup
Salads
Use them instead of traditional croutons for extra flavor and crunch.
Snack Boards
Pair with:
- Cheese
- Cured meats
- Olives
- Fresh vegetables
- Nuts
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcrowding the Pan
Crowded bagels steam instead of crisping.
Skipping the Stirring
Turning the pieces helps prevent uneven browning.
Using Too Much Oil
Excess oil can make the bagel bites greasy instead of crunchy.
Overbaking
Watch closely during the final few minutes to prevent burning.
Storage Instructions
Once completely cooled, store Everything Bagel Bits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Can You Freeze Them?
Yes.
Freeze cooled Bagel Bits in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Allow them to thaw at room temperature, then crisp them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes if desired.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving:
- Calories: 190–230
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
Values vary depending on the size of the bagels used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use flavored bagels?
Yes. Everything, onion, garlic, cheese, whole wheat, or sesame bagels all work well.
How do I keep them crispy?
Store them only after they’ve cooled completely in an airtight container.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Air fry at 325°F (160°C) for about 6 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Can I use homemade everything bagel seasoning?
Yes. Homemade seasoning works perfectly and allows you to adjust the salt to your preference.
Are these good for meal prep?
Definitely. They stay crisp for several days, making them a convenient grab-and-go snack.
What dips pair best with Everything Bagel Bits?
Cream cheese, whipped feta, spinach-artichoke dip, hummus, ranch dressing, and buffalo chicken dip are all excellent choices.
Conclusion
Everything Bagel Bits are a simple yet satisfying snack that transforms ordinary bagels into crunchy, flavorful bites. Coated in olive oil and seasoned with the classic everything bagel blend, they bake into crispy morsels that are perfect for dipping, topping soups and salads, or enjoying straight from the bowl.
Whether you’re using up leftover bagels or preparing snacks for a gathering, this easy recipe delivers delicious homemade crunch with minimal effort and maximum flavor.