Best Gluten Free Vegan Bagel Recipe for Easy Baking

If you’ve been searching for the perfect gluten free vegan bagel recipe, your quest ends here! Bagels are a beloved breakfast and brunch staple, but finding a version that’s both gluten free and vegan can be tricky.

This recipe combines the chewiness and slight sweetness of traditional bagels without any animal products or gluten-containing flours. Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply want to enjoy a wholesome, homemade treat, these bagels are soft on the inside with a satisfyingly crisp crust on the outside.

Using a blend of gluten free flours, a touch of natural sweetener, and a clever technique to get that iconic bagel texture, this recipe delivers every time. Plus, it’s easy enough for beginners but flexible for experienced bakers to customize.

You’ll soon have a batch of warm, delicious bagels ready to toast, top, and savor. Let’s dive into why these bagels are a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatility: These bagels are a fantastic base for all your favorite toppings, from avocado and tomato to vegan cream cheese and smoked “lox.”

Health-conscious: Completely free of gluten and animal products, this recipe is perfect for those with allergies or lifestyle choices.

Texture perfection: Thanks to a combination of xanthan gum, psyllium husk, and a simple boiling step, these bagels achieve the classic chewy crust and dense crumb that bagel lovers crave.

Easy to make: No fancy equipment or rare ingredients needed. With just a few pantry staples and some patience, you’ll master this recipe in no time.

Ingredients

• 2 cups gluten free all-purpose flour (make sure it contains xanthan gum)
• 1/2 cup tapioca flour (for elasticity and chewiness)
• 2 tablespoons psyllium husk powder (key for binding and moisture)
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar (maple syrup or agave nectar work great too)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (helps with rise and flavor)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onion flakes, everything bagel seasoning

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Kitchen scale (optional but recommended for accuracy)
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Large pot for boiling water
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer
• Cooling rack
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten free all-purpose flour, tapioca flour, psyllium husk powder, and salt.
3. Combine wet ingredients: Add the olive oil and apple cider vinegar to the yeast mixture once it’s bubbly.
4. Form the dough: Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula. The dough will start to come together but should be slightly sticky and elastic. If too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time.
5. Knead the dough: Using wet hands, knead the dough gently in the bowl for about 2-3 minutes until smooth and cohesive. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for 45-60 minutes in a warm place. The dough should rise slightly but won’t double like traditional dough.
6. Shape the bagels: Lightly flour your hands with gluten free flour. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center with your finger and stretch gently to form a ring about 2-3 inches in diameter.
7. Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Boil the bagels: Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil. Carefully drop 2-3 bagels at a time into the boiling water. Boil for about 1 minute on each side. Use a slotted spoon to remove and place them on the baking sheet. Boiling gives bagels their signature chewy crust.
9. Add toppings: While the bagels are still wet from boiling, sprinkle your choice of toppings over them.
10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
11. Cool and enjoy: Transfer bagels to a cooling rack and let them cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps set the texture.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding garlic powder, dried herbs, or cinnamon and raisins to the dough before baking.

Make sure your psyllium husk powder is fresh, as it plays a critical role in binding and moisture retention. If you can’t find psyllium husk powder, powdered chia seeds can be a substitute, but the texture will differ slightly.

If you want a softer bagel, brush them with a bit of olive oil right after baking while still warm.

To make mini bagels, simply divide the dough into smaller portions and reduce boiling and baking times by a few minutes.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These bagels are incredibly versatile! For a classic approach, slice and toast them, then spread with vegan cream cheese and top with sliced cucumber and fresh dill.

Try an avocado smash with cherry tomatoes, cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a nutritious, flavorful breakfast.

For a savory twist, add vegan smoked “lax” or marinated mushrooms with capers and red onion for a plant-based take on the traditional bagel and lox.

And if you’re feeling indulgent, load your bagel with peanut butter and fruit preserves or vegan Nutella for a sweet treat.

Conclusion

Making your own gluten free vegan bagels at home is not only rewarding but also opens up a world of delicious, allergy-friendly breakfasts and snacks. This recipe balances simplicity with authentic bagel texture and flavor, ensuring everyone can enjoy this beloved bread without compromise.

Whether you’re new to gluten free baking or a seasoned pro, these bagels are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Experiment with toppings and flavors to keep things exciting.

For more creative vegan baking ideas, check out our Magic Dough Recipe and the rich flavors in our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes.

Ready to impress your friends and family? Whip up a batch of these bagels and enjoy the compliments rolling in.

Happy baking!

{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Best Gluten Free Vegan Bagel Recipe”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A chewy and flavorful gluten free vegan bagel that’s perfect for any time of day. Easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients.”, “prepTime”: “PT20M”, “cookTime”: “PT25M”, “totalTime”: “PT45M”, “recipeYield”: “6 bagels”, “recipeIngredient”: [“2 1/2 cups gluten free all-purpose flour blend”, “1 tablespoon baking powder”, “1 teaspoon xanthan gum”, “1/2 teaspoon salt”, “1 tablespoon sugar”, “1 cup warm water”, “1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar”, “1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water (flax egg)”, “1 teaspoon active dry yeast”, “1 tablespoon olive oil”, “1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Preheat oven to 425\u00b0F (220\u00b0C).”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “In a small bowl, combine flaxseed and water; let sit for 5 minutes.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, xanthan gum, salt, and sugar.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add warm water, apple cider vinegar, flax egg, yeast, and olive oil to dry ingredients; mix until a dough forms.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Divide dough into 6 equal portions and shape each into a ball, then poke a hole in the center to form bagels.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Place bagels on a lined baking sheet and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Let cool before serving.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “220”, “proteinContent”: “6g”, “fatContent”: “5g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “38g”}}