Name: Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels Recipe
Prep time: 2 h 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 35 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Dough:; 1½ cups warm water; 2¾ tsp Red Star® Quick-rise™ yeast; 4 cups bread flour; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 2 tsp salt; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; ¾ cup raisins; 3 tbsp granulated sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tbsp olive oil; For Water Bath:; 8 cups water; ¼ cup honey; 1 egg white

There's nothing quite like the taste and aroma of freshly baked bagels in the morning. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the process of making your own homemade cinnamon raisin bagels. These bagels are loaded with raisins and a hint of cinnamon, providing a sweet contrast to the savory bread. This recipe is perfect for a weekend baking project and makes enough to enjoy throughout the week.

Photos of Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are pantry staples, such as yeast, bread flour, brown sugar, salt, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. One ingredient that you might need to pick up from the supermarket is Red Star® Quick-Rise™ Yeast, which is a specific brand of yeast that helps the dough rise quicker. Similarly, you might not have raisins at home. You can easily find them in the dried fruit section of most supermarkets.

Ingredients for Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

Warm water: Essential for activating the yeast and helping the dough to rise.

Quick-rise yeast: Speeds up the rising process of the dough.

Bread flour: Gives the bagels a high rise and chewy texture.

Brown sugar: Sweetens the dough and adds a hint of molasses flavor.

Salt: Enhances the other flavors in the dough.

Vanilla extract: Adds a bit of warmth and depth to the flavor of the bagels.

Raisins: Gives a sweet, fruity flavor that pairs well with the cinnamon.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and mixes with the cinnamon for a delicious flavor combination.

Ground cinnamon: Gives the bagels a warm, spiced flavor that's perfect for a breakfast treat.

Olive oil: Keeps the dough from sticking to the bowl while it rises.

Water: Used in the water bath to boil the bagels before baking.

Honey: Sweetens the water bath, which gives the bagels a slightly sweet exterior.

Egg white: Creates a shiny, crispy crust when brushed on the bagels before baking.

One reader, Bald Mohammed says:

I recently tried the homemade cinnamon raisin bagels recipe and it was a game-changer! The bagels turned out soft, chewy, and packed with delicious cinnamon flavor. The aroma while baking was heavenly. I loved the simple instructions and the end result was absolutely delightful. I'll definitely be making these again!

Bald Mohammed

Techniques Required for Making Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

How to prepare the dough: Mix warm water and yeast in a stand mixer, then add flour, brown sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Knead the dough and let it rise until doubled in size.

How to shape the bagels: Divide the dough into 8 pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Press your index finger through the center of each ball to create a hole.

How to boil the bagels: Boil the bagels in water and honey for 1 minute on each side before baking.

How to bake the bagels: Brush the bagels with egg wash and bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes until dark golden brown.

How to serve: Allow the bagels to cool on a wire rack before serving.

How To Make Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

Baked to perfection, these raisin bagels are rich in cinnamon flavors! Plus, these treats are boiled in honey and water for extra chewiness and color.

Preparation: 2 hours 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 2 hours 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Dough:

1½cupswarm water
2¾tspRed Star® Quick-rise™ yeast
4cupsbread flour,spoon and leveled, plus more for work surface and hands
1tbspbrown sugar,packed light or dark or barley malt syrup
2tspsalt
1tsppure vanilla extract
¾cupraisins
3tbspgranulated sugar
1tspground cinnamon
1tbspolive oil,or nonstick spray, coating bowl

For Water Bath:

8cupswater
¼cuphoney,or barley malt syrup
1egg white,beaten, with 1 tbsp water

Instructions

Dough:

Whisk the warm water and yeast together in the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment. Cover and allow to sit for 5 minutes.
Add the flour, brown sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed for 2 minutes, then beat in the raisins until combined. The dough is very stiff and will look somewhat dry.
Mix the sugar and cinnamon together and sprinkle onto a clean surface. Place the dough on top.
Knead the dough for 4 minutes, picking up all that cinnamon sugar. Work as much of the cinnamon-sugar mixture as you can into the dough. Dough may become a little wet from the added sugar.
Lightly grease a large bowl with oil or nonstick spray.
Place the dough in the greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides in the oil. Cover the bowl with aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise at room temperature for 60 to 90 minutes or until double in size.
Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
When the dough is ready, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball.
Press index finger through the center of each ball to make a hole about 1½ to 2-inches in diameter. Loosely cover the shaped bagels with kitchen towel and rest for a few minutes as you prepare the water bath.
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.

Water Bath:

Fill a large, wide pot with water. Whisk in the honey. Bring water to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-high. Drop bagels in, 2 to 4 at a time, making sure they have enough room to float around. Cook the bagels for 1 minute on each side.
Using a pastry brush, brush the egg wash on top and around the sides of each bagel. Place 4 bagels onto each lined baking sheet.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until bagels are dark golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow bagels to cool on the baking sheets for 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 366.00kcal
Fat: 3.00g
Saturated Fat: 0.42g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.39g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.68g
Carbohydrates: 75.89g
Fiber: 2.71g
Sugar: 22.83g
Protein: 9.59g
Sodium: 602.57mg
Calcium: 31.47mg
Potassium: 198.25mg
Iron: 3.41mg
Vitamin A: 0.05µg
Vitamin C: 0.38mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

When kneading the dough, it's important to ensure that the cinnamon-sugar mixture is evenly distributed. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures a consistent texture throughout the bagel. If the dough becomes too wet due to the added sugar, don't hesitate to add a bit more flour to achieve the right consistency. Remember, the key to a good bagel is a firm and stiff dough.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Cinnamon Raisin Bagels at Home

Prep ahead: Mix the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of baking.

Use a stand mixer: Let the machine do the kneading work for you, saving time and effort.

Boil multiple bagels: Boil several bagels at once to speed up the water bath process.

Bake in batches: Utilize both oven racks to bake multiple bagels simultaneously, reducing overall baking time.

Plan ahead: Set up your work station and gather all ingredients and equipment before starting to streamline the process.

Invest in a bagel mold: Using a bagel mold will help create uniform shapes and sizes, saving time on shaping the dough.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients in advance to avoid stopping and starting during the recipe.

Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels Recipe

red star® quick-rise™ yeast - Substitute with active dry yeast: Active dry yeast can be used as a substitute for quick-rise yeast. You will need to activate the active dry yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the dough.
bread flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for bread flour in this recipe. However, the texture of the bagels may be slightly different.
brown sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar and molasses: You can substitute brown sugar with a combination of granulated sugar and molasses. For every cup of brown sugar, use 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of molasses.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for vanilla extract to add a sweet and aromatic flavor to the bagels.
raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can be used as a substitute for raisins to add a tart and sweet flavor to the bagels.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener in place of granulated sugar, adding a subtle floral sweetness to the bagels.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with apple pie spice: Apple pie spice can be used as a substitute for ground cinnamon, providing a blend of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
olive oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil in the dough, providing a neutral flavor and moisture to the bagels.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for honey, adding a rich and distinct flavor to the water bath for the bagels.
egg white - Substitute with aquafaba: Aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, can be used as a substitute for egg whites to create a similar glaze for the bagels.

Presentation Ideas for Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

Elevate the bagels with a gourmet spread: Offer a selection of high-quality cream cheese flavors such as chive, garlic and herb, or smoked salmon to complement the warm, freshly baked bagels.
Garnish with fresh fruit: Add a touch of elegance by serving the bagels with a side of seasonal fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries, raspberries, or a fruit compote, to provide a burst of color and freshness.
Present on a wooden serving board: Arrange the bagels on a rustic wooden serving board to create a visually appealing display that adds a touch of warmth and charm to the presentation.
Accompany with artisanal preserves: Pair the bagels with a selection of artisanal fruit preserves or homemade jams, such as fig, apricot, or mixed berry, to offer a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Serve with a side of gourmet nuts: Offer a small dish of premium gourmet nuts, such as candied pecans or honey-roasted almonds, to provide a crunchy and indulgent accompaniment to the bagels.
Add a touch of elegance with edible flowers: Garnish the serving platter with delicate edible flowers, such as pansies or nasturtiums, to introduce a sophisticated and visually stunning element to the presentation.
Enhance with flavored butters: Elevate the bagels by serving them with a selection of flavored butters, such as honey cinnamon, citrus-infused, or truffle butter, to offer a luxurious and flavorful addition to the dish.
Present on individual serving plates: Showcase the bagels on individual serving plates lined with parchment paper or a linen napkin to create a refined and personalized dining experience for each guest.

Essential Tools for Making Cinnamon Raisin Bagels at Home

Stand mixer: A stand mixer is a versatile tool that can be used to mix and knead the bagel dough. It provides consistent and thorough mixing, making the dough preparation easier and more efficient.
Dough hook attachment: The dough hook attachment is specifically designed for kneading and mixing dough. It helps to develop the gluten in the dough, resulting in a smooth and elastic texture.
Whisk: A whisk is essential for combining the warm water and yeast together. It ensures that the yeast is evenly distributed and activated, leading to proper dough fermentation.
Baking sheets: Baking sheets are used to provide a surface for baking the bagels. They help to ensure even heat distribution and prevent the bagels from sticking to the oven.
Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: These are used to line the baking sheets, providing a non-stick surface for the bagels to bake on. They also make for easy cleanup and prevent the bagels from sticking to the baking sheets.
Large pot: A large pot is used for the water bath, where the bagels are boiled before baking. It should be wide enough to accommodate the bagels and allow them to float freely.
Pastry brush: A pastry brush is used to apply the egg wash on top and around the sides of each bagel before baking. It helps to create a golden brown crust and adds shine to the bagels.
Wire rack: A wire rack is used for cooling the baked bagels. It allows air to circulate around the bagels, preventing them from becoming soggy as they cool.

How To Store and Freeze Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

Allow the bagels to cool completely before storing or freezing.
Store leftover bagels in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
To keep the bagels fresh for longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
If you want to freeze the bagels, follow these steps:
- Slice the bagels in half to make them easier to separate when frozen.
- Wrap each bagel half tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped bagel halves in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze the bagels for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen bagels:
- Remove the desired number of bagel halves from the freezer.
- Unwrap the bagel halves and place them on a plate or cutting board.
- Allow the bagels to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until they are soft and no longer frozen.
- Alternatively, you can microwave the frozen bagel halves for 15-20 seconds to speed up the thawing process.
To restore the texture and freshness of thawed or slightly stale bagels:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the bagel halves cut-side down on a baking sheet.
- Bake the bagels for 5-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
- Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your restored homemade cinnamon raisin bagels with your favorite toppings, such as cream cheese, butter, or jam.

How To Reheat Leftover Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

To reheat leftover cinnamon raisin bagels, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each bagel individually in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to restore the crispy exterior while keeping the interior soft and chewy.
For a quicker option, you can use a toaster or toaster oven. Slice the bagel in half and toast it until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. If the bagel is particularly dense or dry, you can sprinkle a few drops of water on the cut sides before toasting to help soften it.
If you prefer a softer, chewier texture, you can use the microwave. Place the bagel on a microwave-safe plate and sprinkle a few drops of water on top. Cover the bagel with a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the bagel tough and rubbery.
For a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior, you can combine methods. First, wrap the bagel in foil and heat it in the oven for 5-10 minutes. Then, remove the foil and finish the bagel in the toaster or toaster oven until the outside is crispy.
If you have multiple bagels to reheat, you can place them in a covered casserole dish with a few tablespoons of water. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to keep the bagels moist and soft.

Random Fact About Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

Cinnamon raisin bagels are a popular breakfast item in the United States and Canada. They are often enjoyed toasted with cream cheese or butter.

Is Making Cinnamon Raisin Bagels at Home Cost-Effective?

The homemade cinnamon raisin bagels recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of basic ingredients such as bread flour, yeast, and raisins keeps the cost reasonable. The bagels can be enjoyed as a delicious breakfast or snack, making them a worthwhile investment. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, depending on the availability and pricing of ingredients. Overall Verdict: 8.

Are Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels Healthy or Unhealthy?

The homemade cinnamon raisin bagels recipe is a delightful treat, but it may not be the healthiest choice for everyday consumption. Here's why:

The recipe uses bread flour, which is high in gluten and refined carbohydrates. Consuming too many refined carbs can lead to blood sugar spikes and increased risk of chronic diseases.
The addition of brown sugar, granulated sugar, and honey contributes to the overall sugar content of the bagels. Excessive sugar intake is linked to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues.
The recipe calls for olive oil, which is a healthier fat option compared to butter or vegetable oils. However, the amount used is relatively small.
Raisins provide some natural sweetness and a small amount of fiber, but they are still high in sugar.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap half of the bread flour with whole wheat flour or other whole grain flours like spelt or rye. This will increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients.
Reduce the amount of added sugars by cutting back on the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and honey. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners like date paste or applesauce.
Increase the amount of raisins or add other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped apricots for more fiber and natural sweetness.
Brush the bagels with egg white wash before baking to achieve a shiny, golden crust without the need for additional oil or butter.
Serve the bagels with healthy toppings like mashed avocado, hummus, or nut butter for added nutrition and flavor.

Editor's Thoughts on This Cinnamon Raisin Bagel Recipe

As a culinary expert, I find this homemade cinnamon raisin bagel recipe to be a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The addition of vanilla extract and brown sugar adds depth to the dough, while the cinnamon and raisins provide a burst of aromatic sweetness. The water bath step ensures a chewy interior and a shiny, golden crust. Overall, this recipe promises a satisfying homemade bagel experience that is sure to impress friends and family.

Enhance Your Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the sweet and savory cinnamon raisin bagels.

Grilled Vegetable Platter: A colorful assortment of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, to add a healthy and flavorful element to your bagel meal.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots coated in a sweet and sticky honey glaze, providing a touch of natural sweetness to complement the cinnamon and raisin flavors of the bagels.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a delicious and nutritious meal by stuffing bell peppers with a flavorful mixture of rice, ground meat, and spices, then baking them to perfection.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Indulge in a healthy and refreshing dessert by combining ripe mangoes, creamy coconut milk, and chia seeds to create a creamy and satisfying pudding.

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Risotto: Whip up a comforting and creamy risotto dish by cooking tender chicken and earthy mushrooms with arborio rice, white wine, and rich chicken broth for a luxurious meal.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory and earthy, these stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal. Filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs, they are sure to impress your guests.

Caprese Skewers: These colorful and refreshing skewers are a delightful way to start any gathering. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze is a classic crowd-pleaser.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with molten chocolate when you dig your fork into it. The warm, gooey center is perfectly complemented by the slightly crisp exterior, creating a delightful contrast in textures.

Tiramisu: Transport your taste buds to Italy with a luscious tiramisu. Layers of delicate ladyfingers soaked in espresso and layered with a creamy mascarpone mixture, dusted with cocoa powder, create a heavenly dessert that is both elegant and satisfying.

Why trust this Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels Recipe:

This recipe guarantees authentic bagels that are made from scratch, ensuring the freshest taste and quality. The use of red star® quick-rise™ yeast ensures a reliable rise, while the incorporation of vanilla extract adds a unique depth of flavor. The combination of raisins and cinnamon infuses the bagels with a delightful sweetness and warmth. The careful attention to detail, from the water bath with honey to the precise baking temperature, ensures a perfect texture and golden crust. Trust in this recipe for a homemade breakfast delight that will rival any bakery offering.

Want to share your experience making these homemade cinnamon raisin bagels or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum section.

FAQ:

How long does it take to make homemade cinnamon raisin bagels?

It takes about 2-3 hours to make homemade cinnamon raisin bagels, including the time for dough preparation, rising, shaping, boiling, and baking.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour, but the texture may be slightly different. Bread flour has a higher protein content, which helps create a chewier bagel. If using all-purpose flour, the bagels may be a bit softer in texture.

Can I skip the raisins in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer plain cinnamon bagels, you can omit the raisins and simply make cinnamon bagels instead.

Can I freeze the homemade bagels?

Yes, you can freeze the homemade bagels. Once they have cooled completely, place them in a resealable plastic bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven.

Can I use a different sweetener in the water bath instead of honey?

Yes, you can use other sweeteners like barley malt syrup or brown sugar in the water bath instead of honey. These alternatives will also provide a nice shine and flavor to the bagels.