These Cinnamon Raisin Yogurt Bagels are soft and chewy with a delightful hint of sweetness. Made with creamy yogurt, they’re easy to whip up for breakfast or a snack!
They smell amazing while baking, and I love slathering mine with a bit of cream cheese. It feels like a cozy hug in each bite! 🥯💛
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of your bagels. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I’ve found that blends with a bit of xanthan gum work well!
Plain Greek Yogurt: It adds moisture and tang. Low-fat yogurt works too but avoid non-fat for the best texture. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut yogurt, but check if it has a similar thickness.
Raisins: They add a sweet and chewy element to the bagels. If you’re not a fan, you can swap them for dried cranberries or chopped dates. You could even leave them out completely for a plain bagel!
Cinnamon: It gives those warm, comforting flavors. If you’re in the mood for a twist, try nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a unique taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Bagels Turn Out Soft and Chewy?
The key to making soft, chewy bagels is not to over-knead the dough, as this can make them tough. Here are a few tips:
- Mix the dough until it just comes together, then gently knead for only 1-2 minutes. This keeps them fluffy.
- If your dough is sticky, lightly dust your hands and work surface with flour as you knead, rather than adding too much flour into the dough.
- When shaping, don’t be too aggressive—gently stretch the dough to keep the bagels tender.
Also, keep an eye on them as they bake. Once they are golden brown, that’s your cue to take them out, ensuring a delightful chew!
How to Make Cinnamon Raisin Yogurt Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
- 3/4 cup raisins (plus extra for sprinkling on top)
- 1 large egg (for egg wash, optional)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation and another 20-25 minutes for baking. Finally, allow your bagels to cool for a few minutes before enjoying them. In total, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). To prepare for baking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt until everything is well combined. This helps distribute the baking powder and cinnamon evenly throughout the dough.
3. Add the Yogurt:
Next, add the plain Greek yogurt to the dry mix. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough starts to form. Don’t worry if it looks a bit messy—this is just the beginning!
4. Incorporate the Raisins:
Add in the raisins and gently knead the dough right in the bowl until the raisins are evenly mixed throughout. If the dough feels too sticky, don’t hesitate to sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface to help.
5. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently for about 1-2 minutes, just until it firms up. Be careful not to over-knead, as this could make your bagels tough!
6. Shape the Bagels:
Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball. To shape the bagels, poke a hole through the center of each ball with your finger and gently stretch the hole to form a bagel shape (make it about 2 inches in diameter).
7. Prepare to Bake:
Place the shaped bagels on your prepared baking sheet, making sure to give them some space in between for even baking.
8. Optional Egg Wash:
If you’d like a glossy finish, beat the egg with the water in a small bowl to create an egg wash. Lightly brush the tops of the bagels with this mixture. Feel free to sprinkle on some extra raisins at this stage too!
9. Bake the Bagels:
Put the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
10. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. You can enjoy them plain or with butter, cream cheese, or any of your favorite spreads.
Enjoy your soft, chewy Cinnamon Raisin Yogurt Bagels!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that it may change the texture. You might need to increase the amount of yogurt slightly to keep the dough moist, as whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid.
How Do I Store Leftover Bagels?
To store leftover bagels, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying again!
Can I Add Other Mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with mix-ins. Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even apple bits would complement the cinnamon flavor nicely. Just make sure not to overload the dough to keep it manageable.
What If My Dough Is Too Dry?
If your dough feels too dry, add a little extra yogurt, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. Avoid adding too much to prevent a sticky mess!