As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of cinnamon and sugar enveloped me like a warm hug, instantly transporting me to cozy mornings filled with laughter and chatter over homemade breakfast. These Crunchy Cinnamon Sugar Bagels are my latest obsession, combining the sweet, nostalgic flavors of my favorite bakery treats with the fun of baking from scratch. What’s delightful about these bagels is not just their indulgent taste but also their perfect, crunchy topping—it’s the secret weapon that will have your morning crew sneaking back for seconds. With minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch that’s sure to impress, making these bagels a staple in your breakfast repertoire. Ready to awaken your taste buds and fill your home with irresistible warmth? Let’s dive into the world of homemade goodness together!
Why Are These Bagels Irresistible?
Freshly Baked goodness: Experience the delight of biting into a warm bagel fresh from the oven, infused with sweet cinnamon and sugar.
Crunchy Topping: The perfect balance of texture with a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft, chewy interior.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, even novice bakers can achieve a bakery-quality treat.
Versatile Option: Enjoy them plain or topped with a creamy honey walnut cream cheese for an indulgent breakfast like no other!
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family and friends with these delectable bagels; they’ll be requesting them on repeat!
Elevate your breakfast game in just a few simple steps and explore other delicious options like Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal or Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken to keep your mornings exciting!
Cinnamon Sugar Bagel Ingredients
• Get ready to create delicious homemade cinnamon sugar bagels with these essential ingredients!
For the Dough
- Lukewarm Water – Hydration for the dough; activate yeast with water at approximately 110°F (43°C).
- Molasses – Adds depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness; substitute with honey for a lighter taste.
- Active Dry Yeast – Leavening agent that helps the bagels rise; instant yeast can be used as an alternative at the same amount.
- Bread Flour – Provides structure and chewiness; all-purpose flour can be substituted in a pinch but will yield a softer bagel.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity; avoid table salt, which is too fine.
For the Topping
- Dark Brown Sugar – Sweetness and moisture for the topping; light brown sugar can be used as a substitute if dark is not available.
- Bread Flour (for topping) – Helps bind the topping ingredients together.
- Granulated Sugar – Added sweetness for the topping; can be omitted for less sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps form the topping; can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Ground Cinnamon – Primary flavoring for the topping; consider adding vanilla or nutmeg for variations.
For Assembly
- Large Egg – Used for egg wash to give the bagels a shiny finish; a flax egg can be used for a vegan option.
- Cornmeal – Dusting agent for the baking sheet to prevent sticking; adds a rustic texture.
Take these ingredients, gather your loved ones, and get ready to make the best cinnamon sugar bagels that ever graced your breakfast table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Bagels
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of lukewarm water (about 110°F) with 2 tablespoons of molasses and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic on your Cinnamon Sugar Bagels.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine 4 cups of bread flour and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Slowly pour in the yeast mixture while mixing on low speed. Continue mixing until a shaggy dough forms, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated for a perfect bagel base.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. It should pass the windowpane test, where stretching a piece reveals a thin membrane without tearing. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect chewy texture in your Cinnamon Sugar Bagels.
Step 4: First Rise
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm location for about 60-90 minutes, or until it has doubled in size. This first rise ensures your bagels will be light and airy inside.
Step 5: Shape Bagels
Once risen, punch the dough down gently to release air, then divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and use your fingers to make a hole in the center, shaping them into bagels. Place the shaped bagels on a cornmeal-dusted baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Cold Proof
Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate the bagels overnight for 12-18 hours. This cold proofing step enhances the flavor and texture of your Cinnamon Sugar Bagels, making them even more delightful when baked.
Step 7: Prep Oven
On baking day, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place pizza stones on the racks. The high temperature creates that desirable crispy exterior. Make sure the oven is fully heated before adding your bagels to achieve a beautiful golden crust.
Step 8: Create Topping Mixture
In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup of dark brown sugar, 1/4 cup of flour, 1 tablespoon of melted unsalted butter, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon until well combined. This sugary mixture will form the irresistible topping that defines your Cinnamon Sugar Bagels.
Step 9: Boil Bagels
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding 1 tablespoon of molasses for extra flavor. Boil each bagel for 30 seconds per side, ensuring they puff slightly. This boiling process helps set the outer layer, giving your bagels their unique chewiness.
Step 10: Apply Topping
Remove the bagels from the boiling water and place them back on the baking sheet. Brush each one with an egg wash (1 large egg, beaten) and generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping over the bagels for that sweet crunch before baking.
Step 11: Bake
Carefully transfer the bagels to the preheated pizza stones and bake for 15-19 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the topping is crispy. The aroma wafting from the oven will be irresistible, setting the stage for the delightful moment you and your loved ones get to savor these delicious homemade Cinnamon Sugar Bagels!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Bagels are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first rise, then shape the bagels and refrigerate them overnight (12-18 hours) for the cold proofing step to enhance their flavor. Just ensure to cover them tightly to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, simply boil the bagels, apply the topping, and pop them in the oven. You’ll have fresh, crispy bagels just as delicious as if you baked them from scratch that day, making your busy mornings a breeze!
What to Serve with Crunchy Cinnamon Sugar Bagels?
Indulging in these sweet, warm bagels opens the door to a delightful array of breakfast companions that complement their sugary spice.
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Honey Walnut Cream Cheese: This luscious spread enhances the bagels’ sweetness while adding a nutty texture, creating a heavenly combination.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cinnamon flavors, brightening your breakfast table.
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Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Creamy yogurt layered with granola and fresh berries offers a satisfying crunch and tang that balances the sweetness of the bagels.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of pure maple syrup adds a deliciously rich sweetness that mingles beautifully with the cinnamon topping.
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Brewed Coffee: A steaming cup of well-brewed coffee provides a comforting warmth and a slight bitterness, perfect for pairing with the sweet bagels.
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Chocolate Milk: For a playful twist, serve these bagels with a glass of chocolate milk; the rich flavors create a delightful indulgence.
These delightful accompaniments will transform your breakfast experience into a true feast that keeps your family coming back for more!
Cinnamon Sugar Bagel Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make these bagels your own with these delightful variations!
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Gluten-Free: Swap out bread flour for almond flour and a gluten-free flour blend to keep it celiac-friendly but still delicious.
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Sweet Surprise: Add raisins or chocolate chips to the dough for a burst of flavor that transforms every bite into a delightful treat.
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Fruity Flare: Mix in diced apples or chopped bananas into the dough to infuse each bagel with fruity sweetness while maintaining a nutritious edge.
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Nutty Crunch: Include chopped nuts like pecans or hazelnuts into the topping for an added delightful crunch in every bite.
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Extra Spice: Boost the flavor by incorporating vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg into the dough or topping, creating a more complex and comforting taste.
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Savory Twist: Create a savory version by reducing the sugar in the topping and add cheese or garlic powder to the bagel dough for a completely different breakfast experience.
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Cream Cheese Indulgence: Instead of the standard topping, pipe a cream cheese filling inside before baking, offering a creamy surprise that your family will love.
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Maple Drizzle: After baking, drizzle warm maple syrup over the bagels for that extra indulgent touch, making any morning feel special.
These variations not only let you experiment but also keep each batch fresh and exciting. While you’re at it, you might want to try creating a new morning ritual with these Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups or a batch of Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes for a delightful breakfast spread!
Storage Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Bagels
- Room Temperature: Store bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This helps maintain their freshness and crunchy topping.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze bagels in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 6 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before serving for the best texture.
- Reheating: To revive leftover bagels, reheat in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, bringing back the delightful crunch and warmth.
- Wrap Wisely: If you slice the bagels before storing, ensure they are wrapped well to prevent them from drying out, keeping the flavor of your homemade cinnamon sugar bagels intact.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Bagels
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Perfect Water Temperature: Always ensure your lukewarm water is around 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast effectively. Using water that’s too hot can kill the yeast.
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Knead Thoroughly: Kneading for the full 10 minutes is essential to develop gluten, which gives your bagels that chewy texture. Don’t skip this step!
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Watch the Rise: Avoid over-proofing during the first rise. If the dough doubles too much, your bagels may flatten instead of rising beautifully when baked.
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Boil with Care: Don’t rush the boiling step! Boiling each bagel for 30 seconds per side helps achieve that signature chewy crust essential for the perfect Cinnamon Sugar Bagels.
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Use an Egg Wash: For a shiny finish and to help the topping stick, brush each bagel with a generous layer of egg wash before sprinkling on that delicious cinnamon sugar.
Cinnamon Sugar Bagels Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for the dough?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, make sure to use lukewarm water around 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast properly. Your molasses should be rich and thick for the best flavor, while the bread flour should feel coarse and slightly springy. Fresh yeast is key—check the expiration date on the package.
How should I store leftover bagels?
Very simple! Store your cinnamon sugar bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. To maintain the crunchy topping, ensure the container isn’t too humid. If you need to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 6 months.
What’s the best way to freeze cinnamon sugar bagels?
I often make a batch and freeze some for later! To freeze your bagels, let them cool completely after baking. Then, individually wrap each one in plastic wrap or foil to preserve their texture. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out any air. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for that freshly baked taste.
Why did my bagels come out flat?
Common troubleshooting! If your bagels flatten, it might be due to over-proofing, where the dough rises too much before boiling. Make sure the first rise is monitored closely and that you only let them rise until they double. Additionally, make sure to form a nice tight bagel; the shaping step is crucial for maintaining structure.
Can I make these bagels gluten-free?
Absolutely! To create a gluten-free version of your cinnamon sugar bagels, substitute the bread flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. This will help replicate the chewiness you expect. Just be mindful that baking times may vary—keep an eye on them while they bake for that perfect golden hue.
Any dietary considerations for my pets?
Very important! While these cinnamon sugar bagels are delicious for us humans, they aren’t safe for pets. Ingredients like sugar and certain spices (like nutmeg) can be harmful to dogs and cats. I recommend keeping them as a special treat just for yourself and your family!
Delicious Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Bagels for Breakfast Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine lukewarm water with molasses and active dry yeast. Allow to sit until foamy.
- In a stand mixer, combine bread flour and kosher salt. Slowly pour in yeast mixture while mixing on low speed.
- Increase speed to medium and knead dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Shape dough into a ball and let rise in a greased bowl, covered, for 60-90 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Punch dough down, divide into 12 pieces, shape into bagels, and place on a cornmeal-dusted baking sheet.
- Cover bagels and refrigerate overnight for 12-18 hours.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and place pizza stones on racks.
- Mix dark brown sugar, flour, melted butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon for the topping.
- Boil water with molasses, boil each bagel for 30 seconds per side.
- Brush each bagel with egg wash and sprinkle with topping before baking.
- Bake bagels for 15-19 minutes or until golden brown.
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