The late afternoon sun streams through my kitchen window, casting a warm glow on the countertop where my kids are busy creating their own culinary masterpieces. Amidst the chatter and occasional laughter, I find myself scrolling through my recipe box, searching for something that’s a little fun but also nourishing. That’s when I stumble upon a handwritten note for Zucchini Bagels—easy to make, enjoyable for the kids, and a great way to sneak in some veggies.

These bagels have a way of capturing the best of both worlds: they’re sturdy enough to hold up as a breakfast option or a lunchtime snack, yet light enough that you won’t feel weighed down. Plus, they freeze wonderfully—a perfect little time capsule for busy days when you need to throw something together quickly.

On a Saturday morning filled with chaos—yes, you know those mornings, where everyone seems to be hungry simultaneously—these bagels save the day. They give us a chance to sit together, share a meal, and kick off our weekend in the best possible way.

Today, I want to share my own version of this recipe, shaped by many attempts in my home kitchen and influenced by beloved recipes from neighbors and friends. Trust me, this one’s a keeper.

The Ingredients: Simply Delicious

• 2 medium zucchinis (grated)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 large eggs
• Sesame seeds or Everything Bagel seasoning (for topping)

Directions: Let’s Get to It

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Grate the zucchinis and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
• In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, salt, and sugar until well combined.
• Add grated zucchini, olive oil, and eggs to the dry mixture; stir until just combined.
• Divide dough into equal portions; shape each into a bagel by rolling into a ball and creating a hole in the center.
• Place on prepared baking sheet; sprinkle with sesame seeds or seasoning.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Sometimes I let my kids make the dough balls into all sorts of shapes (think bagel-monsters) before we bake. Sure, they aren’t perfect bagels, but they appreciate their creations a lot more—and honestly, so do I.

What to Watch For

Meanwhile, as you’re mixing, don’t worry too much if the dough seems a little sticky; a little extra flour can always help you shape it. If you do have a larger zucchini, it might add more moisture, which could be fine; just adjust the flour accordingly. And if you happen to have a little too much zucchini, consider adding it to a frittata or mixing it in with a side salad later.

Cooking should be flexible; these bagels are forgiving enough that you’ll feel like a master baker even on a hectic day.

Storing and Enjoying Leftovers

What I love most about these bagels is how they fit seamlessly into our lives. Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container. They last for up to a week in the fridge. And don’t worry if they get a bit stale—the toaster revives them quicker than you can say “almost time for school.” Or wrap them up tightly in plastic and stow them in the freezer for up to three months. I often pull a few out for a quick Sunday breakfast with cream cheese and fresh fruit.

Substitutions Made Simple

No eggs on hand? No problem! Substituting with plain yogurt (1/4 cup for each egg) works beautifully, too. And for an extra nutritional boost, consider folding in some chia seeds or flaxseeds; they’ve been a game changer in my kitchen.

Got leftover herbs? Toss those in as well. This is your canvas—paint it with some flavor!

A Bit of Fun on the Side

Don’t forget about toppings! Some days, we turn these into mini pizzas, adding cheese and a touch of marinara. On others, we simply sprinkle a little salt and enjoy their warmth with butter. My kids even enjoy dipping them into soup, which can make for a cozy snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Heart of It All

These Zucchini Bagels have become a symbol of the way food can gather us around the table. As we knead and shape together, I often find that the kitchen becomes a backdrop for our everyday moments—the beautiful chaos that is life. Whether they turn out perfectly round or a bit lumpy, they carry the essence of our family’s laughter, stories, and shared meals.

So here’s to these uncomplicated bagels—may they anchor you on crazy mornings as you sip your coffee and find a moment of peace in the process. Grab your ingredients, invite a friend over, and I promise you’ll find joy in this little adventure, no matter how your bagels take shape.

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