Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese
If using slices, cut them into small squares or bite-size pieces. If using shredded cheese, scoop small mounds onto the baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart.
Tip: Smaller pieces = crispier bits.
Step 3: Season Generously
Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over each piece of cheese. Press lightly so it adheres as the cheese melts.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 7–12 minutes, depending on your oven and cheese type. Watch closely—the goal is deep golden brown, not pale.
Step 5: Cool and Crisp
Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on the pan. As they cool, they’ll crisp up beautifully.
Step 6: Enjoy (Carefully)
Transfer to a serving bowl… and try not to eat them all straight from the tray.
What Cheese Works Best?
Each cheese gives a slightly different result:
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Mozzarella: Mild flavor, extra crispy, great for dipping
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Cheddar: Bold flavor, slightly chewy center
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Parmesan: Ultra-crispy and intense (almost like a cheese cracker)
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Provolone: Balanced melt and crunch
👉 Low-moisture cheeses crisp better than fresh or soft cheeses.
Air Fryer Method (Even Faster!)
If you want instant gratification:
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Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C)
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Place cheese pieces on parchment or air fryer liner
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Sprinkle seasoning
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Air fry for 4–6 minutes
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Cool completely before removing
Air fryer bits tend to be extra crunchy.
Flavor Variations You’ll Love
Once you master the base recipe, try these irresistible twists:
🔥 Spicy Everything Bits
Add a pinch of:
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Crushed red pepper flakes
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Cayenne
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Chili crisp seasoning
🧄 Garlic Lover’s Version
Top with:
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Extra dried garlic
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Garlic powder
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Roasted garlic flakes
🧀 Extra Cheesy Crunch
Mix:
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Parmesan + mozzarella
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Cheddar + parmesan
🌿 Herb Everything Bits
Add dried:
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Rosemary
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Thyme
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Italian seasoning
How to Serve Everything Bagel Bits
These are incredibly versatile:
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🥂 Party appetizer bowl
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🧀 Charcuterie board upgrade
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🥗 Salad topper instead of croutons
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🍲 Soup garnish (especially tomato or creamy soups)
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🧄 Dip scoopers for hummus or whipped cream cheese
They’re also naturally low-carb and gluten-free, making them ideal for keto or grain-free snackers.
Storage Tips (If They Last That Long)
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
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If they lose crispness, reheat at 350°F for 2–3 minutes
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Avoid refrigeration—it introduces moisture
Why You’ll Never Buy Store-Bought Snacks Again
Let’s be honest: most packaged snacks are overpriced, over-processed, and underwhelming. These Everything Bagel Bits:
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Take minutes, not hours
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Cost a fraction of store-bought alternatives
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Have no fillers or preservatives
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Taste fresher and bolder
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Are endlessly customizable
Once you make them once, you’ll find yourself reaching for cheese and seasoning instead of a bag from the pantry.
Nutrition Snapshot (Approximate per serving)
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Low in carbs
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High in protein and fat
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Naturally gluten-free
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Keto-friendly (depending on seasoning)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but note that anti-caking agents may slightly affect crispness.
Can I make these dairy-free?
This recipe relies on cheese structure, so dairy-free alternatives may not crisp the same.
Why did mine spread too much?
Pieces were too large or placed too close together—smaller portions help control spreading.
Final Thoughts
Everything Bagel Bits prove that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most powerful. With just two ingredients and a few minutes, you get a snack that’s crunchy, savory, endlessly snackable, and totally customizable.
Make them once—and don’t be surprised if they become a weekly (or daily) habit.
👉 Pro tip: Double the batch. You’ll need it.
