Everything Bagel Bits

1. Prep the Pastry

1. Thaw puff pastry for 30–40 minutes until pliable but cold.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).
3. Line two baking sheets with parchment.
4. Whisk the egg with one teaspoon of water to make an egg wash.

2. Roll, Brush & Season

1. Place one pastry sheet on a lightly floured counter.
2. If folded, gently roll just enough to smooth seams. Keep the rectangle shape.
3. Brush the entire surface with a thin layer of egg wash — this is crucial for shine and adhesion.
4. Sprinkle generously with everything bagel seasoning, covering every inch.
5. Press the seasoning lightly into the dough.
6. Cut the sheet into 1-inch squares — about 48 per sheet.

3. Bake to Golden Perfection

• Transfer the squares to baking sheets, spacing them about ½ inch apart.
• Bake for 12–15 minutes, rotating halfway, until puffed and deeply golden.
• Repeat with second pastry sheet.

Pro Tips for Perfect Everything Bits

• Keep it cold! Warm pastry loses its puff. Chill it for 5 minutes if it softens.
• Season both sides by flipping the cut squares onto extra seasoning on the parchment.
• Cheese-stuffed option: Add a tiny cube of mozzarella or cheddar to the center before baking.
• Spiral variation: Roll the pastry into a log, slice into rounds, and bake like savory pinwheels.
• Press seasoning gently so it stays put during baking.

Variations & Substitutions

• Parmesan Everything Bits: Mix grated Parmesan with the seasoning.
• Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper or chili crisp.
• Cheesy Base: Brush pastry with melted butter + garlic powder + cheddar before baking.
• Gluten-Free Swap: Use a gluten-free puff pastry brand.
• Sweet & Savory: Add a drizzle of hot honey before serving.

Serving, Pairing & Storage

How to Serve

• Serve warm for the ultimate flaky, buttery crunch.
• Pair with whipped cream cheese, French onion dip, or a herbed yogurt spread.
• Add to charcuterie boards or serve with soup instead of crackers.

Storage

• Store fully cooled bits in an airtight container up to 2 days.

Reheating

• Re-crisp in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 3–5 minutes.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked seasoned squares on a tray, then bag them.
• Bake from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the bake time.

FAQ

Can I make these ahead?
Yes! Freeze the cut, seasoned squares and bake as needed.

Why didn’t my pastry puff well?
It likely warmed too much. Always keep it cold before baking.

Can I use store-bought everything seasoning?
Absolutely — Trader Joe’s, Costco, and Walmart brands all work perfectly.

Can I add cheese?
Yes! Tiny cubes of cheddar, mozzarella, or Gouda inside each square make them extra decadent.

Do they need dipping?
Not at all — but a bowl of whipped cream cheese takes them to the next level.