Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Bagels

Name: Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Bagels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup warm water; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Olive oil; Sea salt; Sesame seeds (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Global Meals

I love making these Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Bagels for a delightful breakfast or snack. The combination of chewy bagels with the sweet and tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes and the aromatic essence of basil makes each bite a little adventure. Baking your own bagels may sound intimidating, but this recipe is surprisingly simple and requires just a handful of ingredients. Trust me, once you try these warm bagels fresh from the oven, you won't want to go back to store-bought ones.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-27T10:54:28.277Z

About a year ago, I stumbled upon a bakery that sold the most incredible sun-dried tomato bagels. I was instantly hooked by their flavor and decided to try my hand at making them at home. After a few tries, I carefully crafted my recipe that captures the same essence but allows for some creativity in flavor. The trick? Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to ensure the most robust flavors.

Every time I make these bagels, I experiment with different toppings and spreads. Sometimes I’ll add a sprinkle of cheese before baking or enjoy them with a homemade garlic cream cheese. The versatility of these bagels means you can enjoy them at any meal of the day. Give them a try and see how they transform your breakfast routine!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Unique flavor combination of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil
Chewy texture that makes for a perfect breakfast
Great for toasting and spreading your favorite toppings

Mastering the Dough

The dough is the heart of your bagels, and achieving the right consistency is crucial. Start with all-purpose flour for a chewy texture, but if you want to enhance it further, consider adding a small amount of bread flour. This can bring extra protein to the dough, which contributes to a better rise and chewier bite. The dough should be smooth and slightly tacky, not sticky. If it clings too much to your hands, sprinkle in a bit more flour while kneading.

Kneading is an essential step that develops gluten, which provides structure and texture to your bagels. Use a flat surface and apply firm pressure with the heels of your hands, folding the dough over itself repeatedly. Aim for about 10 minutes of kneading until the dough is elastic and springs back when pressed. If you feel the dough is too stiff, a little additional warm water can be added to achieve the right pliable texture.

Boiling for Perfection

Boiling your bagels might seem unusual, but it creates that iconic chewy crust. Use a large pot and bring water to a rolling boil before adding the bagels. A pinch of sugar in the boiling water can enhance browning. Boil each bagel for 1-2 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them during this process; they should puff up slightly and become glossy. If your bagels sink or deflate, ensure your dough has risen properly prior to boiling.

For an extra layer of flavor, you can also add ingredients to the boiling water. A tablespoon of baking soda in the boiling water will give a deeper color and a firmer crust. Experimenting with a mixture of honey and water can introduce a hint of sweetness to the crust, which pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and basil.

Storage and Variations

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but you can definitely make them ahead of time. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the bagels after they have completely cooled. Place them in a freezer bag, and they will last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply toast them directly from the freezer or let them thaw overnight in the fridge.

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! While sun-dried tomatoes and basil are a fantastic combination, you can customize the flavors to your liking. Try substituting the sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers or adding garlic for an extra kick. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to infuse your bagels with a unique twist. Adding cheese, like feta or cheddar, can also elevate the flavor profile significantly.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients before you start to ensure a smooth preparation process.

For the Bagels

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup warm water
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

For the Topping (optional)

Olive oil
Sea salt
Sesame seeds (optional)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps closely for perfectly baked bagels!

Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil. Mix until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.

Shape the Bagels

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces, shape each into a ball, and poke a hole in the center to form a bagel.

Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Boil each bagel for 1-2 minutes on each side, then transfer to a baking sheet.

Bake

Brush the bagels with olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt and sesame seeds if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Let the bagels cool slightly before enjoying them with your favorite spreads!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, let your bagels sit in the refrigerator overnight before boiling them. This can enhance their flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Bagels are perfect as-is, but you can serve them with a variety of toppings. Cream cheese is a classic option, and a herbed cream cheese would harmonize beautifully with the bagels. You could also layer on some sliced avocado and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a nutritious twist. For a heartier meal, try adding smoked salmon and capers for a delicious brunch option.

If you're hosting a gathering or brunch, consider slicing the bagels and providing a spread station with different toppings and cheeses. This not only adds variety but also allows guests to customize their bagels to their preferences. Pair them with a light salad or a fresh fruit platter to balance out the meal.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels turn out denser than expected, check your yeast. Active dry yeast should be frothy when mixed with the warm water and sugar; if not, it may be expired. Ensure that your water isn't too hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast, preventing your bagels from rising properly.

Another common issue is bagels becoming overly tough. This could happen if they are over-kneaded. Remember to knead just until the dough is elastic; too much kneading can develop too much gluten, making your bagels chewy rather than delightfully soft. Keep an eye on your baking time as well; over-baking can lead to dryness, so it's best to start checking around the 20-minute mark.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag.

→ Can I add other ingredients to the dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to add olives, cheese, or even herbs to customize the flavor.

→ What is the best way to reheat bagels?

You can toast them or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes for a fresh taste.