Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bagels Recipe (Soft & Chewy)

I recently tried the bagel cinnamon raisin recipe, and it instantly became a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of soft, chewy bagels with sweet cinnamon and plump raisins creates a comforting breakfast treat that everyone will love. Making these at home is simpler than you think, and the result is far superior to store-bought options.

This recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll create warm, flavorful bagels that can be enjoyed for breakfast, snacks, or even a light dessert.

What Makes This Bagel Special

This bagel is not just any sweet bread it’s soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and packed with cinnamon and raisins in every bite. Unlike ordinary bagels, this recipe balances sweetness and spice perfectly, making it ideal for pairing with cream cheese, butter, or even a drizzle of honey.

Why You’ll Love Baking at Home

Homemade bagels are fresher, healthier, and more customizable. You can adjust the sweetness, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy a preservative-free treat that tastes incredible. Plus, the process itself is rewarding kneading, shaping, and baking bagels is fun and satisfying.

Essential Baking Tools

To make these bagels perfectly, you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Ensure accurate measurements
• Stand Mixer with Dough Hook (optional): Makes kneading easier
• Baking Sheet & Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and ensures even baking
• Large Pot: For boiling bagels before baking
• Slotted Spoon: Safely remove bagels from boiling water

Ingredients for Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for greasing)

Optional toppings:

• Cinnamon sugar
• Sesame seeds
• Poppy seeds

How to Make Cinnamon Raisin Bagels from Scratch

1. Activate Your Yeast: Dissolve 1 tbsp sugar in warm water and add yeast. Let it sit 5-10 minutes until frothy.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine flour, remaining sugar, salt, and cinnamon in a large bowl.

3. Form the Dough: Add yeast mixture gradually. Knead until smooth and elastic (8-10 minutes).

4. Add Raisins: Gently fold in raisins for even distribution without crushing them.

5. First Proof: Cover dough and let rise 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.

6. Shape Bagels: Divide dough into 8 portions, roll each into a ball, and form a hole in the center.

7. Boil Bagels: Boil each bagel 1-2 minutes per side in a large pot of water.

8. Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake 20-25 minutes until golden. Optionally add toppings before baking.

9. Cool & Enjoy: Cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Overview

Per bagel (approx.):

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Carbs: 45g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 2g
• Sugar: 8g
• Fiber: 2g

Creative Ways to Serve Your Bagels

• Spread with cream cheese, butter, or peanut butter
• Pair with fruit preserves or honey
• Toast with cinnamon sugar for extra flavor
• Serve alongside coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast

Health-Boosting Elements

• Raisins provide natural sweetness and fiber
• Homemade bagels contain no preservatives
• Can be adapted for healthier versions with whole wheat flour or less sugar

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
    Yes, mix with all-purpose flour for lighter texture.
2. Do I have to boil the bagels?
    Boiling ensures classic chewy texture; skipping will give denser bagels.
3. How long do homemade bagels last?
    Store airtight for up to 3 days, or freeze for 1 month.
4. Can I add other dried fruits?
    Yes, dried cranberries or dates work well.
5. How to keep bagels soft?
    Wrap in a clean towel while cooling to retain moisture.

Final Thoughts

The bagel cinnamon raisin recipe is a perfect blend of sweet, chewy, and soft goodness. Baking these bagels at home is simple, fun, and rewarding. With this guide, you’ll create delicious, fresh bagels that are both flavorful and versatile. Try it today and enjoy a homemade treat that everyone will love!