These homemade bagel bites are tiny, chewy delights topped with your favorite flavors! Perfect for snacking or a fun appetizer at parties, they’re easy to whip up!
I love how simple they are to make—just roll out the dough, shape them, and bake. Plus, they disappear fast, so be ready to share… or not! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is essential for the dough to rise. If you have instant yeast, you can use that instead in the same amount. Just mix it right in with the dry ingredients.
Flour: All-purpose flour works great, but if you want a chewier texture, use bread flour. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free flour blend, but check the rising instructions as it can vary.
Pizza Sauce: You can substitute with marinara, or even pesto for a twist! If you want a spicier kick, try using a spicy tomato sauce.
Cheese: While mozzarella is classic, feel free to mix it up! Cheddar or provolone can add a different flavor. Vegan cheese options also work if you prefer dairy-free.
Pepperoni: If you want a healthier option, use turkey pepperoni or omit it entirely for a cheese-only treat. You could also add veggies like diced bell peppers or mushrooms.
How Do I Get My Bagel Bites to Rise Properly?
Getting the dough to rise is a crucial step! Yeast needs warmth and time to activate. While waiting, avoid drafts and keep the dough covered to help retain heat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix the yeast and sugar with warm water (not hot; around 110°F is perfect).
- Let it sit until foamy, which shows the yeast is alive.
- After kneading, place the dough in a bowl coated with a little oil, cover with a damp towel, and find a warm spot (an oven off but warmed slightly works well).
Patience is key here! Let it rise until it doubles in size—about one hour usually does the trick.
Homemade Bagel Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagel Dough:
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
For Boiling:
- 2 quarts water
- 2 tbsp baking soda
For Topping:
- 1/3 cup pizza sauce or marinara
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 30 mini pepperoni slices (or more to taste)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil), for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 15-20 minutes preparing the dough and toppings, and then allow for 1 hour for the dough to rise. Baking takes an additional 12-15 minutes. So, set aside some time to enjoy this fun cooking adventure!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, pour warm water and sprinkle the active dry yeast and sugar over it. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This shows that your yeast is active and ready to go!
2. Mix and Knead:
Next, stir in the flour and salt until a dough begins to form. Dust your countertop with some extra flour and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. It’s a great workout!
3. Let it Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and find a warm spot for it to rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Preheat and Prepare:
While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
5. Shape the Bagel Bites:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and use your thumb to poke a hole through the center to create mini bagels. Make them about 1-2 inches wide.
6. Boil the Bagel Bites:
In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water and the baking soda to a strong boil. Boil the bagel bites in batches for 30 seconds on each side. This gives them their chewy texture! Carefully remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Top the Bagel Bites:
Spoon a thin layer of pizza sauce or marinara over each bagel bite. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top, and add a few mini pepperoni slices for good measure!
8. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
9. Finish and Serve:
When they are done baking, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and dried Italian herbs over the top for extra flavor. Let them cool for just a couple of minutes before serving.
10. Enjoy!
Serve these delightful bagel bites warm and enjoy them with your friends and family. They’re perfect for snacking or appetizers!
This recipe yields about 12 tasty homemade bagel bites, ready to be devoured!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can! Whole wheat flour will give your bagel bites a nuttier flavor and denser texture. However, you may want to use a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for the best results. Start with a 50/50 mix and adjust based on your preference!
What If the Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be that your yeast is inactive or your environment is too cold. Ensure your yeast is fresh and activate it properly with warm water. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area; you can even turn your oven on briefly to warm it up, then turn it off before placing the dough inside.
How to Store Leftover Bagel Bites?
Store any leftover bagel bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or in a toaster oven for a few minutes until warmed through, ensuring they retain their delicious texture!
Can I Freeze the Bagel Bites?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked bagel bites before boiling. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to an airtight container. When you’re ready, boil them directly from the freezer without thawing, then proceed with the baking instructions!
