New York Style Mini Gluten Free Bagels

Introduction

New York-style mini gluten-free bagels have quickly become a beloved snack in my kitchen, offering all the chewy, soft, and slightly crisp goodness of traditional bagels but with a gluten-free twist. The dense, doughy texture combined with that perfect golden crust is so reminiscent of classic bagels you’d find in New York. Despite not having gluten, these mini bagels hold up wonderfully and make the perfect base for your favorite spreads, sandwiches, or just enjoying on their own.

I first stumbled upon this recipe when I was craving a true New York-style bagel but couldn’t find a gluten-free alternative that captured the same satisfying texture. After some trial and error in the kitchen, I finally created a version that did just that—and it’s been a staple ever since. What I love most about making these mini bagels is how fun and satisfying it is to shape each one by hand. It’s a surprisingly relaxing process, and the small size makes them perfect for snacking or sharing.

These bagels are endlessly customizable as well. You can add any toppings you love, like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even everything bagel seasoning for a bit of extra flavor. The dough itself is relatively simple to prepare, and once you master the boiling and baking technique, you’ll be able to create bagels that would impress anyone, gluten-free or not.

Whether I’m making them for breakfast with some cream cheese or pairing them with savory toppings for lunch, these bagels are a highlight of any meal. They’re proof that being gluten-free doesn’t mean missing out on beloved foods, and I can say with confidence that they’ll become a regular part of your gluten-free baking repertoire.

Perfect for:

Breakfast or brunch
Gluten-free diets
Snack time
Light sandwiches
Gifting or sharing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Gluten-Free: A perfect option for those with gluten sensitivities, without sacrificing taste.
Chewy and Delicious: These bagels have the same beloved texture as traditional New York bagels, even without gluten.
Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite bagel toppings like cream cheese, smoked salmon, or even Nutella.
Quick to Make: Unlike traditional bagels, these mini gluten-free bagels come together in just under 2 hours.
Perfectly Portion-Sized: Mini bagels are great for portion control or small snack servings.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 12 mini bagels
Calories per serving: Approximately 150 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Fiber: 2g, Calcium: 5% DV

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (preferably a blend for bread or pizza dough)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar (or a low-calorie substitute)
1 teaspoon active dry yeast

Wet Ingredients:

2 teaspoons olive oil
¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
2 large eggs (one for the dough, one for egg wash)

For Boiling:

3 quarts water
1 tablespoon baking soda

Optional Toppings:

Everything bagel seasoning
Sesame seeds
Poppy seeds
Dried garlic flakes
Sea salt

Ingredient Highlights

Gluten-Free Flour: Ensures these bagels are safe for those with gluten sensitivities, while providing structure and texture.
Yeast: Provides the slight rise and gives these bagels their signature chewy texture.
Baking Soda: Used in the boiling process for an authentic bagel exterior.
Toppings: Choose from savory options like sesame or everything bagel seasoning or go sweet with cinnamon sugar.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a larger bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt.
Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the activated yeast mixture and 1 egg (whisked) into the dry ingredients and stir to form a dough. You may need to knead it a little with your hands if it’s sticky.

Shape the Bagels:

Divide and Roll: Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then use your finger to create a hole in the center and gently stretch the dough to form mini bagels.
Rest the Dough: Let the bagels rest on a parchment-lined baking sheet while you prepare the boiling water.

Boil the Bagels:

Boil with Baking Soda: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and stir in the baking soda. Gently drop the bagels into the water, 2 or 3 at a time, and boil for about 1 minute per side.
Remove and Dry: Use a slotted spoon to remove each bagel from the water and place it back on the baking sheet.

Bake the Bagels:

Preheat the Oven: While boiling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Egg Wash and Add Toppings: Whisk the second egg and brush it over the tops of the bagels. Add your desired toppings.
Bake: Bake the bagels for 20-22 minutes or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.

Cool and Serve:

Let the Bagels Cool: Cool the bagels on a wire rack before serving.
Enjoy: Serve them warm with cream cheese, avocado, or your favorite spread.

How to Serve

With Cream Cheese: Spread a generous amount of cream cheese for a classic bagel experience.
As a Mini Sandwich: Fill with turkey, cheese, and lettuce for a delightful snack or lunch.
For Breakfast: Pair with smoked salmon, capers, and red onion for a traditional bagel breakfast.
With Sweet Toppings: Enjoy with Nutella, honey, or jam for a sweet start to your day.

Additional Tips

Measure Your Ingredients: Gluten-free dough can be tricky to get right, so be sure to measure everything carefully, especially the flour.
Knead Gently: Gluten-free dough doesn’t require much kneading. Overworking it may lead to a tough texture.
Boiling Tip: Boiling the bagels for the correct amount of time is essential to getting the right texture. The water and baking soda create that signature chewy crust.
Reheat: These mini bagels store well and can be reheated in a toaster for extra crispiness.

Recipe Variations

Sweet Bagels: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar to the dough before shaping to create sweet, cinnamon-sugar bagels that are perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. The warm spice of cinnamon and the sweetness from the sugar blend together to offer a comforting and indulgent flavor.
Cheddar Bagels: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese directly into the dough for a savory, cheesy twist. The cheese will melt into the dough as the bagels bake, giving them a rich, flavorful profile that pairs well with butter, cream cheese, or even as a sandwich base.
Herb Bagels: Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the dough. These aromatic herbs infuse the bagels with a fragrant, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with eggs, cheese, or as a standalone snack. You can experiment with different herb combinations to tailor the flavor to your preferences.
Vegan Option: For a vegan-friendly bagel, substitute the egg in the dough with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water), and brush the bagels with almond milk for a golden finish. This adjustment makes the bagels suitable for those following a plant-based diet while maintaining the same delicious texture.
Onion Bagels: Add finely chopped onions (such as yellow, red, or green onions) into the dough before boiling and baking for an extra savory and slightly sweet flavor. You can also top them with caramelized onions for an added depth of flavor. These bagels are a great pairing for deli meats, cheeses, or a variety of spreads.
Cinnamon Sugar Topping: After boiling the bagels and just before baking, sprinkle the tops with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet, slightly crunchy topping. This gives the bagels a classic dessert-like finish, with a touch of spice and sweetness that’s perfect for a breakfast treat.
Mini Bagel Bites: Roll the dough into smaller portions and form them into bite-sized bagels, creating mini versions that are perfect for snacking or serving at parties. These are great for portion control or as fun, finger-friendly appetizers that everyone can grab.
Garlic Bagels: Add garlic powder or finely minced fresh garlic to the dough, or sprinkle garlic salt on top before baking. These bagels will have a savory, aromatic flavor that’s perfect for making garlic bread sandwiches or pairing with Italian-inspired fillings like tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
Chocolate Chip Bagels: For a sweet, indulgent twist, fold mini chocolate chips into the dough for a dessert-style bagel. These bagels offer a wonderful balance between slightly savory dough and the rich, melty chocolate chips that can serve as a decadent snack or breakfast treat.
Poppy Seed Bagels: After boiling and before baking, coat the bagel tops in poppy seeds to add a subtle crunch and slight nuttiness. These seeds provide a traditional touch for a classic bagel flavor that goes wonderfully with cream cheese or smoked salmon.
Everything Bagels: Top your bagels with a classic “everything bagel” seasoning mix, which includes sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic flakes, onion flakes, and salt. This savory blend makes for a delicious, flavorful topping that works well with nearly any bagel filling.
Seeded Bagels: Roll the bagels in a mixture of sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, and flaxseeds before baking. This adds texture, crunch, and a healthy boost of fiber, making the bagels not only more delicious but also more nutritious.
Tomato Basil Bagels: Add dried or sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to the dough for a Mediterranean-inspired bagel. These flavors offer a delightful contrast to the soft bagel texture and can be complemented with mozzarella cheese for an added twist.
Spicy Jalapeño Bagels: Incorporate finely chopped jalapeños into the dough for a spicy, bold kick. These bagels have a fiery, tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with a cooling cream cheese spread or avocado for a delicious breakfast or lunch option.
Maple Bagels: Add a splash of maple syrup to the dough for a subtly sweet, syrupy flavor throughout the bagels. Top with a drizzle of extra maple syrup for a breakfast treat that combines the comforting sweetness of maple with the heartiness of a freshly baked bagel.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooled bagels in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast directly from frozen for an easy, warm snack.

Special Equipment

Baking Sheet: To shape and bake the bagels.
Large Pot: For boiling the bagels before baking.
Slotted Spoon: To carefully remove the bagels from the boiling water.
Wire Rack: Essential for cooling the bagels evenly after baking.

FAQ Section

Can I use any gluten-free flour?
It’s best to use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, especially one intended for bread, as it provides the best texture.
Do I have to boil the bagels?
Boiling the bagels is a crucial step to achieve the correct texture. It gives the bagels their classic chewy exterior.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 1 day before shaping and boiling. Let the dough come to room temperature before continuing with the recipe.
How do I know when the bagels are fully baked?
The bagels will be golden brown and firm when lightly pressed. You can also check the bottom—if it sounds hollow when tapped, they’re done.

Conclusion

New York Style Mini Gluten-Free Bagels are a delightful take on the iconic, chewy bagel, offering the classic bagel experience without the gluten. Made with a blend of gluten-free flours, these mini bagels have a slightly crispy exterior and a soft, airy interior that’s sure to satisfy your bagel cravings.

Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, they pair wonderfully with your favorite spreads—whether it’s classic cream cheese, jam, or a savory topping like smoked salmon. Their smaller size makes them ideal for portion control and easy enjoyment.

These gluten-free bagels are simple to make and customizable. Add your preferred toppings or seasonings for extra flavor. Whether served as a quick morning bite or a fun lunch treat, they will quickly become a family favorite.

Bake a batch today, and share a picture of your tasty creations on Instagram—don’t forget to tag me so I can celebrate your delicious success. Happy baking!