Cinnamon Sugar Bagels

There’s something wonderfully comforting about homemade bagels, especially when they are infused with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and sugar. When I first tried making these Cinnamon Sugar Bagels, I was amazed at how easy the process was and how delicious the result turned out to be. My family couldn’t get enough of them! These bagels are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even as a treat for brunch gatherings. The combination of a chewy bagel base topped with a sweet cinnamon-sugar crust creates a delightful experience for the taste buds. Let me take you through the delightful journey of making these bagels at home.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups very warm water (think hot bathwater)
• 2 packets active dry yeast (about 4 1/2 teaspoons)
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 1/2 – 4 cups bread flour
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Water for boiling

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: Heat the water in the microwave until it’s very warm (around 110°F). This usually takes about 45-60 seconds. Add the yeast and brown sugar, stir, and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: While the yeast is proofing, add 3 1/2 cups of flour and salt to a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Stir the flour and salt together.

Mix the Dough

3. Combine Mixtures: Turn the mixer on low and slowly pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture. Mix until a dough forms, then continue mixing for another minute. If the dough is too sticky, add up to another 1/2 cup of flour. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Let the Dough Rise

4. First Rise: Spray a large bowl with cooking spray and transfer the dough to the bowl. Spray the dough with cooking spray, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it sit until it doubles in size, about one hour.

Shape the Bagels

5. Prep for Boiling: Bring a large pot of water to a boil on the stove. Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal parts, rolling them into balls. Let them rest for 5 minutes.
6. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two cookie sheets with Silpat baking mats or spray them with cooking spray. Add honey to the boiling water and stir.

Boil the Bagels

7. Form Bagels: Pick up each dough ball and press two fingers through the center, creating the bagel hole. Boil each bagel for about 45 seconds, flipping once. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared cookie sheets.

Add Toppings

8. Egg Wash: Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the tops of the bagels with the egg wash. Stir together the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle this mixture over the bagels.

Bake the Bagels

9. Final Bake: Bake the bagels for 15-20 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through baking, until they start to turn golden brown.

Serve

10. Enjoy: Serve the bagels warm from the oven, cold, or toasted with your favorite cream cheese spread. Store in an airtight container; they are best eaten within 2 days, but you can freeze them for up to one month.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Serving Size: 1 bagel
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 1g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Freshly Baked: Enjoy warm from the oven.
• Toasted: Slice and toast for a crispy exterior.
• Spread: Add cream cheese, butter, or jam for extra flavor.
• With Coffee: Pair with your favorite coffee or tea.
• Snack: Perfect as a midday snack or quick breakfast.

Additional Tips

1. Flour Measurement: Start with 3 1/2 cups of flour and add more as needed. The dough should be slightly sticky but not overly wet.
2. Boiling: Boiling the bagels is essential for that classic chewy texture. Don’t skip this step!
3. Egg Wash: Brushing with egg wash helps the cinnamon sugar adhere better and gives a beautiful golden color.
4. Cinnamon Sugar Ratio: Adjust the cinnamon sugar topping to your taste; more cinnamon for a spicier flavor!
5. Storage: For optimal freshness, consume the bagels within a couple of days.

Recipe Variations

• Whole Wheat: Substitute half or all of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
• Flavor Add-Ins: Consider adding raisins, dried cranberries, or nuts to the dough for additional flavors.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Savory Option: Skip the cinnamon sugar and top with garlic and herbs for a savory bagel.
• Fruit-Infused: Mix in some lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Brunch: Serve alongside fresh fruit and yogurt for a complete brunch spread.
• Party Snack: Offer with various spreads (like cream cheese, nut butter, or hummus) at gatherings.
• Breakfast Sandwich: Use as a base for breakfast sandwiches with eggs and cheese.
• Dessert: Drizzle with icing for a sweet treat.

Freezing and Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for a few extra days.
• Freezing: Place bagels in a freezer bag and freeze for up to one month. To reheat, simply toast from frozen or warm in the oven.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use instant yeast?

• Yes, instant yeast can be used; skip the proofing step.

1. What if my bagels don’t rise?

• Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water is warm (not hot) to activate it properly.

1. How do I know when the bagels are done?

• They should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.

1. Can I make these bagels vegan?

• Substitute honey with agave syrup and use a flax egg in place of the egg.

1. What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

• You can knead the dough by hand for about 10 minutes until smooth.

1. Can I add toppings?

• Absolutely! Try sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning.

1. Why do I need to boil the bagels?

• Boiling creates that chewy texture and helps them rise properly when baked.

1. How can I get a more intense cinnamon flavor?

• Mix cinnamon into the dough for extra flavor.

1. Are these bagels healthy?

• They are homemade, so you can control the ingredients and sugar levels.

1. How do I reheat frozen bagels?

• Toast them directly from the freezer or warm them in the oven.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Bagels are a delightful homemade treat that the entire family will love. The combination of chewy bagels with a sweet cinnamon topping makes them perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. With a straightforward recipe and simple ingredients, you’ll find yourself making these bagels regularly. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share your creations with family and friends! Happy baking!

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