Imagine biting into a warm, toasty bagel sprinkled with that magical blend of flavors-garlic, onion, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and a touch of salt-that dance together in perfect harmony. That’s the allure of everything bagel seasoning, the versatile spice mix beloved by many for its bold, savory kick. But why settle for store-bought when you can craft your own? In this easy homemade recipe guide, we’ll show you how to whip up your very own everything bagel seasoning from scratch. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also enjoy the satisfaction of customizing the mix to suit your taste buds and sprinkle it on everything from avocado toast to roasted vegetables. Get ready to elevate your culinary creations with this simple,flavorful DIY seasoning!
DIY Everything Bagel Seasoning is a simple but transformative blend that elevates your kitchen creations with its perfect combination of savory,nutty,and umami-rich notes. Originating from the beloved New York-style everything bagel, this seasoning marries toasted sesame seeds, poppy seeds, fragrant garlic flakes, and crispy onion flakes to deliver a complex yet approachable flavour profile. As a food stylist and culinary content creator, I’ve found this seasoning not only jazzes up conventional bagels but also adds a delightful twist to roasted vegetables, creamy dips, and even grilled proteins.
Prep and Cook Time
- Planning: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 5 minutes (optional toasting)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield
Approximately ½ cup of seasoning-enough to generously season 6-8 bagels or equivalent dishes.
Difficulty Level
easy – Perfect for beginners and spice enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons black poppy seeds
- 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons dried minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons dried minced onion
- 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
- Optional: 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Step-by-Step Guide to Mixing Homemade Everything Bagel Seasoning
- Toast the seeds: In a dry skillet over medium heat, gently toast the sesame seeds and poppy seeds for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
- Cool the seeds: Remove from heat and transfer seeds to a small bowl to cool completely to preserve their crunch and flavor.
- Combine ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the toasted seeds with dried minced garlic, dried minced onion, and coarse sea salt. add crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Mix thoroughly: Stir well with a spoon or gently shake in a sealed jar to evenly distribute all spices.
- Store: Transfer to an airtight container or glass jar and seal tightly.
creative Uses and Storage Tips to Keep Your Seasoning Fresh
While the classic use for this DIY Everything Bagel Seasoning remains sprinkling atop freshly baked bagels, its versatility stretches far beyond.
- Enhance savory spreads: Mix into cream cheese,butter,or Greek yogurt for a savory dip.
- Roasted veggies & meats: Toss with olive oil and sprinkle over cauliflower, chicken, or salmon before roasting.
- Popcorn upgrade: Give your popcorn a savory, crunchy makeover with a sprinkle of this blend.
- Egg-cellent addition: Sprinkle over scrambled eggs or avocado toast for layered flavor.
For maximum freshness and flavor retention, store your seasoning in a cool, dark place, free from moisture and heat.Use within 3 months for optimal potency. Avoid pre-toasting seeds far in advance to maintain crispness.
Customizing Your Blend with Unique Ingredients for a Personal Touch
Don’t be afraid to make this seasoning your own! Try adding:
- Za’atar or sumac for a Middle Eastern twist with a tangy edge.
- Everything bagel seasoning with celery salt for a classic,slightly herbal complexity.
- Crushed fennel seeds or smoked paprika for depth and smokiness.
- Nutritional yeast for a cheesy umami boost, perfect for vegan dietary considerations.
Experiment in small batches to find the perfect balance that excites your palate while keeping the integrity of the traditional blend intact.
Tips for Success
- Toast carefully: Seeds burn quickly-keep your heat medium-low and stir frequently enough.
- Use quality dried garlic and onion: freshness matters. Avoid pre-ground powders for better texture.
- Seal properly: Airtight storage is key to preserving flavor and crunch.
- Test with bagels: Before large batches, try your seasoning on a toasted bagel slice to adjust salt or spice level.
Serving Suggestions
This seasoning shines best as a finishing touch. Spread an everything bagel with softened cream cheese or whipped butter, then sprinkle generously. For an alternative, use it atop homemade focaccia or mix into savory crackers dough. Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley to brighten the dish visually and tastefully.

| Nutrient | per 1 tsp |
|---|---|
| Calories | 15 |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 1 g |
| Fat | 1.2 g |
For more flavorful seasoning blends, check out our guide on Homemade Herb and Spice Blends. To understand the health benefits of sesame seeds better, visit this nutrition study.
Q&A
Q&A: DIY Everything Bagel Seasoning – Easy Homemade Recipe Guide
Q1: What exactly is Everything Bagel Seasoning?
A: Everything Bagel Seasoning is that magical blend of savory spices and seeds that gives everything bagels their iconic, crave-worthy flavor. Typically, it includes a mix of toasted sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and a pinch of salt. It’s the perfect seasoning to sprinkle on bagels, avocado toast, roasted veggies, and even popcorn!
Q2: Why should I make my own Everything Bagel Seasoning at home?
A: Making your own seasoning mix is not only super satisfying but also customizable. You control the freshness, the salt level, and the exact amounts of each ingredient. Plus, homemade mix means no preservatives, fillers, or mystery ingredients hiding in the jar-just pure, appetizing flavor whenever you need it.
Q3: What ingredients do I need for the DIY Everything Bagel Seasoning?
A: You’ll need:
- Toasted sesame seeds (white and/or black)
- poppy seeds
- Dried minced garlic
- Dried minced onion
- Coarse sea salt or kosher salt
Optional extras include: crushed red pepper flakes for a kick,fennel seeds for a slight sweetness,or even a dash of smoked paprika for depth.
Q4: How do I toast the sesame seeds at home?
A: Simply heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the sesame seeds and stir frequently for 2-4 minutes until they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn them! Toasting amps up their flavor and texture dramatically.
Q5: Can I store the seasoning mix? How long does it last?
A: absolutely! Store your mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Because it’s dried ingredients only, it can last for up to 6 months fresh. Just give it a rapid shake before each use to redistribute those tasty seeds and flakes.
Q6: What are some creative uses for Everything Bagel Seasoning beyond bagels?
A: The possibilities are endless! sprinkle it on:
- Avocado toast for instant flavor boost
- Scrambled eggs or omelets
- Roasted potatoes or sweet potato fries
- Popcorn for a savory snack
- Salad dressings or dips
- Grilled chicken or fish as a rub
Think of it as your all-purpose savory sprinkle that jazzes up almost any dish!
Q7: How can I adjust the seasoning to suit my taste?
A: As it’s DIY, you’re the boss! Want more garlic punch? Add extra dried garlic. Prefer it less salty? Cut back on the salt. Like crunchier texture? Increase the poppy or sesame seeds. Experiment with ratios until you find your perfect blend-it’s all part of the fun.
Q8: Is Everything Bagel Seasoning gluten-free and vegan?
A: Yes! The basic ingredients are naturally gluten-free and vegan. Just be sure all your dried garlic/onion packs and seasonings haven’t been cross-contaminated or mixed with other ingredients. Your homemade mix will be pure and safe.
Q9: Can kids help in making this seasoning?
A: Definitely! Measuring and mixing the ingredients is a safe and fun activity for kids. Plus, it’s a tasty way to introduce them to different herbs and spices. Just supervise the toasting step with the skillet for safety.
Q10: How do I get started making my own DIY Everything Bagel Seasoning right now?
A: Grab your ingredients, toast the sesame seeds, mix everything in a bowl, taste-test, tweak if needed, then store in a jar. Voila-your homemade everything seasoning is ready to elevate your meals! keep a jar handy and sprinkle away whenever you want to add that bagel-shop magic to your kitchen creations.
With this easy guide, your pantry will never be without the savory, crunchy, garlicky goodness of Everything Bagel Seasoning. Happy seasoning!
Key Takeaways
With your very own batch of DIY Everything Bagel Seasoning in hand, the possibilities are truly endless. From sprinkling it over avocado toast to jazzing up roasted veggies or even adding a savory punch to popcorn, this versatile blend is your new pantry superhero. Easy to whip up, customizable to your taste, and free from any mystery ingredients, homemade seasoning transforms everyday meals into something exceptional. So go ahead, get creative, and let this flavorful mix bring a delicious twist to all your favorite dishes-because sometimes, the best recipes start with a simple sprinkle. Happy seasoning!


