Sesame Bagels with Cream Cheese

Name: Sesame Bagels with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 bagels
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 tablespoon instant yeast; 1 cup warm water; 1 tablespoon honey (for boiling); 1/4 cup sesame seeds; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 tablespoon chives, chopped (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love these homemade sesame bagels with cream cheese—they're the perfect start to my day! The aroma that fills my kitchen while they bake is simply irresistible. With a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior, these bagels become a wonderfully satisfying treat. Paired with cream cheese, they offer a delicious blend of flavors that I can't resist. Each bite is a reminder of how rewarding it is to make bagels from scratch, and I know you’ll enjoy them as much as I do!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T12:50:28.230Z

Making these sesame bagels was a delightful adventure that reminded me of the joy of baking. I experimented with different toppings, but the toasted sesame seeds truly elevate the flavor profile. I learned that boiling the bagels before baking gives them that authentic chewy texture, which makes a world of difference. My friends and family couldn't get enough!

One little tip I discovered is the importance of letting the dough rest and rise properly. This gives the bagels their characteristic texture that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. I also love spreading a generous layer of cream cheese on top—it's simply divine!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Toasty sesame seeds add a nutty flavor to the bagels.
Soft and chewy interior with a perfectly crispy crust.
Creamy cream cheese makes for a deliciously indulgent topping.

Understanding Bagel Dough

When making bagels, the dough's hydration level plays a crucial role in achieving the desired texture. For this recipe, using 4 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 cup of warm water creates a balance that yields a chewy interior. Ensuring that the water is warm, not hot, is essential—around 110°F (43°C) activates the yeast without killing it. If the dough feels too sticky, you can sprinkle in a bit more flour during kneading, but be careful not to add too much, or your bagels may end up dense.

Kneading the dough for about 10 minutes develops gluten, which is vital for that characteristic chewy bite. You'll know your dough is ready when it feels smooth and elastic. A great test is the windowpane method: stretch a small piece of dough; if it forms a thin, translucent membrane without tearing, it's ready for the first rise.

Boiling and Baking Techniques

Boiling the bagels before baking is a traditional step that contributes to their distinctive crust. Adding honey to the boiling water not only enhances flavor but also promotes browning. Make sure to maintain a gentle boil; an overly vigorous boil can cause the bagels to collapse. Each bagel should be boiled for about 1-2 minutes per side, allowing them to puff slightly. Look for them to develop a shiny surface before moving them to the baking sheet.

For baking, preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) is crucial. This high temperature ensures a crispy crust while keeping the inside soft. Ovens vary, so keep an eye on the bagels as they bake; they're done when they're a rich golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Letting them cool on a wire rack prevents sogginess by allowing air to circulate around the bagels.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients below before you start kneading.

Bagel Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1 cup warm water
1 tablespoon honey (for boiling)
1/4 cup sesame seeds

Cream Cheese Topping

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon chives, chopped (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create the perfect bagels.

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.

First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Shape the Bagels

Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 12 pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then use your finger to poke a hole in the center, stretching it to form a bagel shape.

Boil the Bagels

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and stir in the honey. Boil each bagel for about 1-2 minutes on each side, then remove and place on a baking sheet.

Add Sesame Seeds

Sprinkle sesame seeds generously over the boiled bagels, ensuring they stick. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

Bake

Bake the bagels for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool on a wire rack.

Prepare Cream Cheese

While the bagels are cooling, mix the softened cream cheese with chives, salt, and pepper. Spread generously over the cooled bagels.

Your delicious sesame bagels with cream cheese are now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding garlic powder or paprika to your cream cheese mixture. If you're a fan of different toppings, experiment with everything bagel seasoning or finely chopped herbs before baking.

Serving Suggestions

While cream cheese is the classic topping, these bagels serve as a great base for various spreads. Try adding smoked salmon, capers, or sliced cucumbers for a brunch twist. If you're in the mood for something sweeter, a layer of flavored cream cheese, such as herbed or fruit-infused varieties, can elevate your bagel experience. Toasting them slightly before adding toppings adds an extra layer of flavor.

For a complete breakfast, consider assembling a bagel sandwich with scrambled eggs, avocado, and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning. This not only enhances the taste but also makes the meal more satisfying, providing a delightful contrast between textures and flavors.

Storage and Variations

These homemade sesame bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in a plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Place cooled bagels in freezer-safe bags, and they will keep for about 3 months. When ready to eat, warm them in a toaster or oven to restore their original texture.

If you're looking to experiment with flavors, consider incorporating ingredients like garlic or onion into the dough for savory variations. Alternatively, you can make plain bagels and top them with everything seasoning or poppy seeds before baking for additional taste. Each variation offers a unique twist that keeps this recipe exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the bagels?

Yes, you can freeze the bagels! Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Thaw and reheat before serving.

→ What flour is best for making bagels?

Bread flour is ideal for bagels because it has a higher protein content, giving them that chewy texture. All-purpose flour works too, but the texture might be slightly different.

→ How do I know when the bagels are done baking?

The bagels should be golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. This indicates they’re fully cooked inside.

→ Can I add other toppings to the bagels?

Absolutely! Feel free to add poppy seeds, onion flakes, or even everything seasoning before baking for a delicious variation.