Everything Bagel Twists

Bagels naturally sweetened with honey (no refined sugar), shaped into the perfect twisted form and baked to a soft, chewy, doughy texture that gives every bite that satisfying pull. These playful twists are topped with everything bagel seasoning for a bold, savory finish you’ll keep coming back for. They’re a fun and easy bake for when that homemade, doughy craving hits—simple, comforting, and just a little special. You’re definitely going to want to make these.

Thanks so much for stopping by—if you make this Everything Bagel Twists, have any questions, or just want to say hi, leave a comment below!

Chewy, Doughy, & So Bagel-y! These bagel twists are a fun take on a classic breakfast and bakery staple (one I’m pretty sure we’ve all tried and have tasted). Instead of traditional rounds, this version is twisted into a long, jumbo-style bagel and coated in everything bagel seasoning for that bold, savory flavor you keep going back for.

It’s a simple yeast dough that comes together in just under 2 hours, making it an easy, satisfying bake for any day of the week. These are perfect for snacks, appetizers, game day spreads, breakfast on the go, or even sliced in half for a seriously good deli-style sandwich.

Bagels are such a favorite because they’re endlessly versatile and freeze beautifully. And when you make them at home, they’re even better—simpler ingredients, fresher taste, and that warm, chewy texture straight from the oven. Plus, your kitchen will smell incredible.

I created this recipe as a fun twist on a classic. My sister—back in her college days—loved putting everything bagel seasoning on just about anything, so this is a little nod to her love for all that. I wanted to build a recipe that highlights that flavor in a new way, while still being simple, impressive, and fun to bake. So, hopefully you will love the Everything Bagel Seasoning as much as my sister 😂. You’ve got this.

Bagel Twists Recipe Variations

• Make them vegan:
  This recipe is super easy to make vegan. Simply swap the honey for maple syrup in the dough and poaching water, and you’re good to go! Replace the egg wash with a brush of plain plant-based milk on top before the seasoning and baking.

• Change the toppings:
  Not a fan of everything bagel seasoning? Use sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even a sprinkle of cheese on top instead. The bagel base is super versatile—make it your own.

Health Notes for this Recipe

• 🚫 No refined sugar:
  These bagels are naturally sweetened with honey, giving just a touch of sweetness without refined sugar. Honey also has a lower glycemic index compared to regular sugar.

• 🫒 Healthy fats:
  Made with olive oil instead of butter, these bagels use heart-healthy fats that support your body while keeping the texture soft and rich.

Pro Tips for this Bagel Twists

• Poaching water matters:
  Bring the water to a boil and whisk in the honey until fully dissolved. Poach the bagels for just 1 minute (30 seconds per side). Over-poaching can create a tougher exterior, so timing is key for the best texture.

• Use instant yeast:
  Instant yeast helps speed up the rise time, making this a quicker yeast recipe without sacrificing flavor or texture. Still, don’t skip the full rise—it’s important!

• Freeze for later:
  These freeze really well. If you don’t eat them right away, freeze and thaw when ready. You can microwave them or let them sit at room temperature—they’ll still be soft, chewy, and fresh-tasting.

• Favorite seasoning tip:
  I love using Einstein Bros. Everything Bagel Seasoning for these—it has great flavor and larger pieces that stick really well to the dough.

Ingredients:

For the Bagel Dough-

• Warm water

• Honey

• Instant yeast

• All-purpose flour

• Sea salt

• Extra virgin olive oil

For the Poaching Water-

• Water

• Honey

For Topping-

• Everything bagel seasoning (store-bought)

For the Egg Wash-

• Egg white

• Water

How to Make Honey Bagel Twists (Step-by-Step Homemade Everything Bagels)

Step 1:
Grease a large bowl with olive oil. Set aside.

Step 2:
Make the bagel dough: In a small bowl, combine the water, honey, and yeast. Let sit for about 5 minutes, until foamy. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, add the flour and salt. Stir with a large spoon until combined. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix on medium-low speed for about 5 minutes. If the dough is too dry, add water 1 tablespoon at a time until it becomes cohesive and smooth.

Step 3:
Transfer the dough to a clean surface and knead by hand into a ball, about 1 minute. Place into the greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot (or oven on proof setting, about 100°F) for 70–80 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 4:
With about 5 minutes left of rising time, preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Prepare the poaching water: In a medium pot, combine the water and honey. Whisk to combine and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 5:
Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a clean surface and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope. Shape each rope into a U, twist the ends together, and pinch to seal. Place 4 twists per baking sheet and repeat with remaining dough. If the poaching water isn’t ready yet, lightly cover the twists with damp paper towels so they don’t dry out.

Step 6:
Once the water is boiling, carefully drop in 2 bagel twists at a time. Boil for 1 minute total (30 seconds per side), flipping halfway through. Remove with a slotted spoon and return to the baking sheet. Repeat with remaining twists.

Step 7:
Make the egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg white and water. Brush each twist with egg wash and generously sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top.

Step 8:
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until golden brown and the seasoning is toasted and crisp. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the best texture—soft, chewy, and fresh from the oven. To store, freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat by wrapping in a paper towel and microwaving for 15–20 seconds, or until warmed through.