These Cinnamon Sugar Crunch Bagels are a yummy treat that will brighten your morning! The crispy topping of cinnamon and sugar adds just the right sweetness.
I love how easy they are to whip up at home. Fresh bagels with a delightful crunch—perfect for breakfast or a snack. Don’t forget to grab a warm one right out of the oven! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This ingredient is crucial for getting the bagels fluffy. If you don’t have active dry yeast, you can use instant yeast instead, using the same amount. Just mix it directly with the flour.
Bread Flour: Bread flour provides that chewy texture we love in bagels. If you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute all-purpose flour, though the bagels may be slightly softer.
Cream Cheese: Essential for the filling, cream cheese gives that rich taste. You can switch it with Greek yogurt for a lighter spread or use a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option.
Cornflakes or Crisp Rice Cereal: These add the crunch factor to your bagels. You can omit them if you want, or try crushed nuts or granola for a different texture.
How Do I Boil Bagels Properly?
Boiling the bagels before baking is what gives them that iconic chewy crust. The process is simple but key to great bagels. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring the water and sugar to a gentle boil in a large pot. Make sure not to skip the sugar, as it adds flavor and helps with browning.
- Lower the heat to keep a steady boil. Drop 2-3 bagels into the water at a time for about 1 minute on each side. This step is key to getting that perfect texture.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the baking sheet. Make sure they’re wet before you coat with the cinnamon sugar mixture for better adherence.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Crunch Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 3 ½ cups bread flour
- 1 tsp salt
For Boiling:
- 2 quarts water
- 2 tbsp sugar
For the Cinnamon Sugar Crunch Coating:
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp finely crushed cornflakes or crisp rice cereal (for crunch)
For the Filling:
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
Optional:
- Maple syrup or honey for drizzling
- Butter or additional cream cheese for spreading
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes for preparation, plus 1 to 1.5 hours for the dough to rise, and then another 20-25 minutes for baking. In total, you’re looking at around 2 hours. But the deliciousness will be well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, watching for it to become foamy—that’s how you know the yeast is active! In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, salt, and the remaining sugar. Then, pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture and stir until a rough dough forms. Move to a floured surface, knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it’s nice and smooth. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which should take about 1 to 1.5 hours.
2. Shape the Bagels:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Take each piece and roll it into a ball. Using your finger, poke a hole through the center of each ball. Stretch the hole gently to about 2 inches in diameter for that classic bagel shape. Place the shaped bagels onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Boil the Bagels:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water and 2 tablespoons of sugar to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle boil. Carefully drop the bagels in, 2-3 at a time, and boil them for about 1 minute on each side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them back on the baking sheet.
4. Apply Cinnamon Sugar Crunch Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and finely crushed cornflakes or cereal. While the bagels are still wet from boiling (this helps the coating stick), lightly brush them with a little water or melted butter, then generously coat each bagel with the cinnamon sugar mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks!
5. Bake the Bagels:
Now it’s time to bake! Put the bagels in the oven and let them bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and have a lovely crunchy crust. Once done, let them cool on a wire rack.
6. Prepare the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip it until smooth and fluffy—a yummy filling for your bagels!
7. Assemble and Serve:
Once the bagels are cooled, slice them in half. Spread a generous layer of your cinnamon cream cheese filling between two halves to create a delicious bagel sandwich. You can drizzle with maple syrup or honey for that extra sweetness or serve with more butter or cream cheese if you like.
Enjoy your sweet, crunchy, cinnamon-coated bagels filled with smooth cream cheese! They are perfect for breakfast or as a tasty snack any time of day!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of Bread Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for bread flour! However, it may result in a denser bagel. To help with texture, consider adding a couple of tablespoons of vital wheat gluten to the mix if you have it on hand.
What If My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Make sure your yeast is fresh and that the water isn’t too hot (over 130°F can kill the yeast) or too cold. If it stays flat after 1.5 hours, you can try kneading in a bit of warm water to revive it, but results may vary.
How Do I Store Leftover Bagels?
To store leftover bagels, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag and toast them directly from frozen for a quick snack!
Can I Make These Bagels Without the Filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer plain bagels, simply skip the filling and enjoy them as they are, or spread with butter or your favorite jam. They are delicious on their own!
