Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels filling your kitchen. The warm, sweet scent of cinnamon combined with chewy, golden-brown bagels studded with juicy raisins makes for a breakfast experience like no other. Whether you love them toasted with butter, smeared with cream cheese, or enjoyed plain, these homemade bagels are far superior to store-bought versions.

If you’ve never made bagels from scratch, don’t worry! This recipe is simple, rewarding, and requires only basic ingredients. Plus, the process of kneading, shaping, and boiling the bagels gives you that authentic chewy texture and deep flavor found in bakery-style bagels.

So, grab your apron and let’s make the most delicious homemade cinnamon raisin bagels right in your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love These Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

✔ Chewy & Flavorful – Boiling the bagels before baking creates the perfect texture.
✔ Warm, Sweet Aroma – Fresh cinnamon and plump raisins make every bite irresistible.
✔ Easy to Make – No special equipment needed—just your hands and an oven!
✔ No Preservatives – Unlike store-bought bagels, these are made with wholesome ingredients.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch and enjoy fresh bagels all week long.

Homemade bagels might sound intimidating, but they’re surprisingly easy to make and taste so much better than anything you’ll find at the store!

Ingredients for Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

Here’s what you’ll need to make these perfectly chewy, cinnamon-spiced bagels:

For the Dough

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Bread flour	4 cups (500g)	Provides structure and chewiness
Salt	1 ½ tsp	Enhances flavor
Ground cinnamon	2 tsp	Adds warmth and sweetness
Granulated sugar	3 tbsp (40g)	Slight sweetness for balance
Instant yeast	2 tsp	Helps the dough rise
Warm water (43°C/110°F)	1 ¼ cups (300ml)	Activates the yeast
Honey or maple syrup (optional)	1 tbsp (15ml)	Adds subtle sweetness
Raisins	¾ cup (120g)	Natural sweetness and texture

For Boiling

• 8 cups (2 liters) water
• 2 tablespoons (30g) granulated sugar

For Topping (Optional)

• Ground cinnamon mixed with sugar for sprinkling

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

1. Prepare the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour, salt, ground cinnamon, and sugar.
• Add the instant yeast and mix well.
• Slowly add the warm water and honey (if using), stirring until a dough forms.

2. Knead the Dough

• Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
• During kneading, add the raisins, making sure they’re evenly distributed.

3. First Rise

• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

4. Shape the Bagels

• Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
• Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your thumb and stretch it to form a bagel shape.

5. Boil the Bagels

• Bring 8 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of sugar to a gentle boil in a large pot.
• Boil each bagel for 30 seconds per side, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

6. Bake the Bagels

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• (Optional) Sprinkle the bagels with cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked.

7. Cool and Serve

• Let the bagels cool on a wire rack before slicing.
• Enjoy toasted with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite spread!

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

⭐ Use Bread Flour – It has a higher protein content, which gives the bagels their chewy texture.
⭐ Let the Dough Rise Fully – This helps create light, airy bagels.
⭐ Boil Before Baking – This is what gives bagels their classic chewy exterior.
⭐ Don’t Overcrowd the Pot – Boil only 2-3 bagels at a time for even cooking.
⭐ For a Stronger Cinnamon Flavor – Add an extra ½ teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough.

Nutritional Information (Per Bagel)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~260 kcal
Carbohydrates	52g
Protein	8g
Fat	2g
Fiber	3g

Homemade bagels are lower in preservatives and additives than store-bought options, making them a healthier, fresher choice.

Best Ways to Enjoy Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

🥯 Classic Cream Cheese – A simple, creamy spread enhances the sweetness.
🍯 Butter & Honey – Adds richness and extra sweetness.
🍌 Peanut Butter & Banana – A protein-packed, satisfying breakfast.
🍏 Apple & Almond Butter – A delicious, nutritious combination.
🧀 Sharp Cheddar Cheese – The mix of sweet and savory is surprisingly delicious!

These bagels are versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Skipping the Boiling Step – This is what gives bagels their signature texture.
❌ Using Too Much Flour – Over-flouring can make the dough too dry.
❌ Over-kneading the Dough – Knead until smooth, but don’t overwork it.
❌ Not Letting the Dough Rise Enough – If you rush this step, your bagels won’t be as fluffy.
❌ Baking at the Wrong Temperature – Ensure your oven is at 400°F (200°C) for even baking.

Following these simple tips will help you achieve perfectly soft, chewy, and flavorful bagels every time!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, but bread flour gives the bagels a chewier texture. If using all-purpose flour, expect slightly softer bagels.

2. Can I freeze homemade bagels?

Absolutely! Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

3. Can I make these bagels without raisins?

Yes! You can skip the raisins or replace them with dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips.

4. How do I store homemade bagels?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

5. Can I add more cinnamon?

Yes! For a stronger cinnamon flavor, increase the ground cinnamon to 1 tablespoon.

6. What’s the best way to reheat bagels?

Toast them in a toaster or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Making Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels from scratch is easier than you think, and the results are absolutely worth it. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe guarantees soft, chewy, and flavorful bagels every time.

So why settle for store-bought when you can enjoy fresh, homemade bagels? Give this recipe a try today and enjoy a warm, delicious breakfast straight from your oven!

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