The Best Gluten-Free Bagels Recipe: Easy, Chewy And Delicious

These gluten-free bagels are everything you’re craving: perfectly chewy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and loaded with nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re avoiding gluten, following a healthier lifestyle, or simply looking for a delicious homemade treat, this recipe delivers flavor without compromise. Packed with protein and fiber, these bagels are the ultimate breakfast or snack to fuel your day.

We developed this homemade gluten-free bagel recipe with your health in mind, choosing nutrient-dense ingredients to offer more than just comfort food. After testing dozens of variations, this easy method ensures you can enjoy bagels that rival their wheat-based counterparts in both taste and texture. Let’s break down exactly how to make these healthy and satisfying bagels from scratch.

Why This Gluten-Free Bagels Recipe Is Good for You

• High in fiber: The psyllium husk powder helps improve digestion and keeps you fuller longer.
• Protein-packed: Each bagel provides 6 grams of protein to support muscle health.
• Gluten-free and versatile: Perfect for anyone with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, and easily adaptable for vegan diets.
• Whole-food ingredients: Crafted with unprocessed, wholesome ingredients for guilt-free indulgence.
• Lower sugar option: Naturally sweetened with honey or pure maple syrup, keeping the sugar content low.

Wholesome Ingredients for These Gluten-Free Bagels

Each ingredient in this recipe was carefully selected for both flavor and nutrition. Let’s highlight a few key players:

• Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: We recommend using Pillsbury or Better Batter flour blends. They contain xanthan gum, which is essential for the dough’s elasticity and structure.
• Psyllium Husk Powder: This fiber powerhouse not only aids digestion but also creates that classic chewy bagel texture in gluten-free baking. No psyllium on hand? Try ground chia seeds as an alternative.
• Yeast: Instant yeast helps the dough rise beautifully and gives the bagels their signature flavor. Be sure to check that your yeast is fresh for the best results.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient strengthens the dough structure while adding a subtle tang that enhances the bagel’s overall flavor profile.

Gluten-Free Bagels Recipe Details

• Servings: 8 bagels
• Prep time: 30 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 55 minutes

Gluten-Free Bagels Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2¼ cups warm water (100°F-110°F)
• 1 tablespoon instant/rapid rise yeast
• 3½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum (e.g., Pillsbury or Better Batter)
• 3 tablespoons psyllium husk powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (use vegan butter for dairy-free)
• ½ cup honey (or pure maple syrup for vegan)
• 1 large egg white, whisked (omit for vegan option)
• 1 tablespoon water

How to Make Gluten-Free Bagels

1. Preheat your oven to 100°F (bread proof setting). Lightly spray an oven-safe bowl with gluten-free non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a stand mixer’s bowl, stir together the sugar and warm water until dissolved. Add the yeast, stir, and let sit for 5 minutes until the mixture is frothy.
3. Combine the gluten-free flour, psyllium husk, baking powder, salt, and brown sugar in the same bowl. Using a dough hook, beat on low speed for 2 minutes. Add the melted butter and apple cider vinegar, and continue to mix on medium speed for 5 minutes until the dough becomes sticky and stiff.
4. Transfer the dough to the prepared bowl, cover with plastic wrap and a kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in the oven for 20 minutes.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces, rolling each into a ball. Use your finger to create a 1-inch hole in the center of each ball. Cover the bagels with a towel and let rest for 10 minutes.
6. Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil and whisk in the honey or maple syrup. Reduce the heat to medium-high.
7. Boil each bagel for 30 seconds per side, then place them back on the prepared baking sheet.
8. If not vegan, whisk together the egg white and water, and brush this mixture onto the bagels for a shiny finish. Add any desired toppings.
9. Bake the bagels for 10 minutes, then rotate the baking sheet. Continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until golden brown with an internal temperature of 180°F.
10. Cool the bagels on the baking sheet for 20 minutes before serving.

How to Customize These Gluten-Free Bagels for Your Diet

• Vegan: Use vegan butter and maple syrup, and skip the egg wash.
• Keto-friendly: Swap the honey for a low-carb sweetener like erythritol. Use almond flour in place of the gluten-free blend (note: additional adjustments may be needed).
• Low-sodium: Reduce the salt to ¾ teaspoon and leave off any salty toppings like everything seasoning.
• Nut-free: Ensure that your flour and butter substitutions are completely nut-free.

Our Team’s Tips for the Best Gluten-Free Bagels

• Always use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum to mimic gluten elasticity.
• Don’t skip the psyllium husk powder—it’s essential for texture.
• Boiling the bagels is non-negotiable for that chewy crust you’ll love.
• Store leftover bagels in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to a month.
• Reheat frozen bagels in the oven or toaster for a fresh-from-the-oven feel.

Gluten-Free Bagels FAQs

Why do you boil gluten-free bagels before baking?

Boiling gelatinizes the surface starch, giving bagels their classic chewy crust and paving the way for a light, fluffy interior.

Can I make these gluten-free bagels vegan?

Yes! Use vegan butter, maple syrup, and skip the egg wash. These swaps won’t compromise the flavor or texture.

What’s the best flour for gluten-free bagels with yeast?

Pillsbury or Better Batter are excellent choices because they contain xanthan gum, which helps the dough hold its structure.

We can’t wait to hear what you think of these gluten-free bagels. What dietary swaps or toppings will you try? Share your ideas in the comments below and don’t forget to tag us when you make your bagels—happy baking!