Name: Pumpkin Bagels: Cozy Fall Breakfast Made from Scratch
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 125 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Warm Water (Around 110°F for yeast activation); ⅓ cup Maple Syrup (Can substitute with honey); 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (Can use instant yeast); 4 cups All Purpose Flour (Bread flour is an alternative); 1 tablespoon Salt (Enhances flavor and yeast control); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger; 1 teaspoon Nutmeg; 1 teaspoon Ground Cloves; 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree (Use pure pumpkin for best results); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Adds depth to flavor); 1 Large Egg (For egg wash on bagels); Optional Maple Syrup (Use during boiling for sweetness)

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As I stood by the window, the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the air, reminding me that fall had officially arrived. It’s the perfect time for cozy breakfasts and what could be more inviting than homemade pumpkin bagels? These Maple Spice Pumpkin Bagels are a delightful combination of chewy texture and warm spices, bringing the comforting flavors of autumn right to your kitchen. Not only are they incredibly simple to whip up from scratch, but they also make for a fantastic breakfast that will impress your family and friends. Pair them with flavorful cream cheeses like Spiced Apple or Maple Walnut, and you have a meal that’s both delicious and unique. Ready to savor the essence of fall with every bite? Let’s dive into making these delightful pumpkin bagels!

Why Are These Pumpkin Bagels Special?

Irresistible flavors: Combining pumpkin puree and maple syrup gives each bagel a unique sweetness that’s hard to resist.
Autumn warmth: Infused with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, these bagels bring the cozy vibes of fall to your kitchen.
Easy to make: From combining ingredients to boiling, the recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
Customizable spreads: Pair these bagels with options like Spiced Apple Cream Cheese or Maple Walnut Cream Cheese for a truly special breakfast experience.
Perfectly chewy texture: Each bagel achieves that delightful chewiness, reminiscent of your favorite bakery treats, but made fresh at home!

Pumpkin Bagel Ingredients

• Delight in the rich flavors suspended in each bite by using these fresh ingredients!

For the Bagel Dough

Warm Water – Activates the yeast for optimal dough rising; remember, it should be warm, not hot!
Maple Syrup – Adds a rich layer of sweetness; feel free to swap it with honey if preferred.
Active Dry Yeast – Essential for achieving a light and airy texture; instant yeast can also work beautifully.
All Purpose Flour – Provides structure to your bagels; bread flour can be a great alternative, just avoid self-rising flour.
Salt – Enhances the flavor while controlling yeast activity for perfect fermentation.
Spices (Cinnamon, Ground Ginger, Nutmeg, Ground Cloves) – Infuses the dough with warmth; a pumpkin pie spice mix can replace these if you’re short on time.
Canned Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and the quintessential pumpkin flavor; ensure it’s pure pumpkin for the best results.
Vanilla Extract – Introduces depth to the flavor profile of your bagels.
Large Egg – Ensures a gorgeous golden crust while enriching the dough.
Optional Maple Syrup – Use during boiling for an extra hint of sweetness, enhancing your pumpkin bagels further.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maple Spice Pumpkin Bagels

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water with ⅓ cup of maple syrup and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy and bubbly, signaling that the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic in creating your pumpkin bagels.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of salt, and your selected spices: 1 teaspoon each of cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, and ground cloves. This blend will provide the warm, aromatic flavors that make these pumpkin bagels, so ensure it’s well-combined before moving on to the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Pour the activated yeast mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients, along with 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until it forms a shaggy dough, ensuring all components are well incorporated and ready to knead into a soft and elastic texture for your pumpkin bagels.

Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn the shaggy dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for approximately 7 minutes. This step is crucial for developing the proper texture in your pumpkin bagels.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise
Transfer the kneaded dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough feels puffy to the touch—this is a sign of successful fermentation!

Step 6: Shape the Bagels
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release some air. Divide it into 8 equal portions (or more if you prefer smaller bagels). Shape each piece into a round ball, then poke a hole through the center to form a bagel shape. Let the shaped bagels rest on a baking sheet for about 30 minutes, ensuring they rise slightly.

Step 7: Prepare for Boiling
While the bagels are resting, bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil. If desired, add a little maple syrup to the water for sweetness. This boiling step is essential for achieving that signature chewy crust on your pumpkin bagels, so don’t skip it!

Step 8: Boil the Bagels
Carefully drop each bagel into the boiling water, allowing them to cook for 1 minute on each side. Use a slotted spoon to flip them gently. You’ll notice the bagels puff up slightly—this is exactly what you want! After boiling, place them back on the baking sheet.

Step 9: Bake the Bagels
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops of your boiled pumpkin bagels with an egg wash made from beaten egg for a beautiful, golden sheen. Bake them for 35 to 45 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and aromatic, filling your kitchen with the delightful scent of fall spices.

Step 10: Cool the Bagels
Once baked, remove the pumpkin bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Cooling enhances their texture, allowing you to savor the perfect blend of chewy and soft. With patience, the flavors will settle beautifully, making your homemade breakfast treat irresistible!

Pumpkin Bagels: Creative Twists Await

Feel free to make these pumpkin bagels your own with fun and delicious variations that will tantalize your taste buds!

Honey Alternative: Swap out maple syrup for honey to bring a unique floral sweetness to your bagels. The subtle changes radiate warmth and comfort!
Spiced Apple Cream Cheese: Elevate your breakfast by pairing these bagels with a creamy, spiced apple spread. Just mix cream cheese with cinnamon and finely chopped apples for a delightful twist.
Maple Walnut Cream Cheese: For a nutty flavor, blend cream cheese with chopped walnuts and a touch of maple syrup. This combination marries beautifully with the pumpkin bagels.
Additional Spices: Experiment with flavors! Add a pinch of cardamom or some allspice to your dough for a richer spice profile that dances on your palate.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate shredded carrots or zucchini to the dough for added moisture and nutrition, creating an earthy flavor that perfectly complements the pumpkin.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in some sunflower seeds or chopped pecans to the dough for added crunch and texture, giving your bagels an unexpected bite.
Heat it Up: Feeling bold? Sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet pumpkin flavor.
Baking with Friends: Invite family or friends over for a bagel-making party! Each of you can create your own personalized bagel variations that reflect everyone’s unique taste.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Bagels

Perfect Temperature: Ensure your water is warm, around 110°F; too hot will kill the yeast, resulting in dense pumpkin bagels.
Flour Adjustment: If your dough feels sticky during kneading, sprinkle in more flour gradually. Conversely, add a little water if the dough seems too dry.
Boiling Benefits: Boiling the bagels is crucial for that characteristic chewiness—don’t skip this step! Consider adding maple syrup for extra flavor.
Cooling Matters: Let the pumpkin bagels cool on a wire rack after baking to maintain their ideal texture; this prevents sogginess and enhances chewiness.
Toast to Taste: Reheat your bagels by toasting them for an even better flavor experience; it enhances the delightful spices and fresh texture.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Bagels

Room Temperature: Keep leftover pumpkin bagels in a Ziplock bag at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their soft texture without drying them out.

Fridge: If you want to store the bagels longer, wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just make sure to toast them for warmth when serving!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your pumpkin bagels in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To enjoy your bagels fresh, simply toast or pop them in an air fryer for a few minutes. This revives their delightful texture and flavor!

What to Serve with Homemade Maple Spice Pumpkin Bagels

Savor the cozy essence of fall by pairing these delightful bagels with complementary sides and spreads.

Spiced Apple Cream Cheese: This sweet and zesty spread enhances the bagels’ warm spices, creating a delightful blend of flavors that brings autumn to your plate.
Maple Walnut Cream Cheese: The rich nuttiness adds depth and a crunchy texture, perfectly balancing the soft, chewy bagel for a satisfying bite.
Pumpkin Butter: A luscious spread that celebrates pumpkin’s flavor, making each bite even more indulgent as it carries the spirit of the season.
Toasted Pecans: For extra crunch, sprinkle toasted pecans on top or serve alongside; their buttery flavor complements the sweetness of the bagels beautifully.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing counterpoint, adding a burst of color and natural sweetness that will brighten up your breakfast table.
Hot Apple Cider: The warming spice notes in this drink harmonize beautifully with these bagels, creating a comforting and festive start to your day.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle brings a sweet touch that enhances the maple flavor, making your bagel experience even more decadent.
Herbal Tea: The warmth and depth of herbal tea create a soothing pairing, inviting you to indulge in the calming flavors of the season.

Make Ahead Options

These Maple Spice Pumpkin Bagels are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the bagel dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to the first rise, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the dough to develop flavor while saving you time the next day. When you’re ready to bake, simply pull the dough from the fridge, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, shape and boil the bagels as directed, and bake. They’ll turn out just as delicious and fresh, making breakfast a breeze!

Pumpkin Bagels Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right canned pumpkin for my bagels?
When selecting canned pumpkin, ensure you’re picking pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Look for brands that list “100% pumpkin” on the label; this ensures you get the natural flavors and moisture needed for your pumpkin bagels.

What’s the best way to store leftover pumpkin bagels?
Absolutely! Store leftover pumpkin bagels in a Ziplock bag at room temperature for up to 5 days. This method keeps them soft and ready to enjoy. If you want them to last longer, wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate them for up to 1 week.

Can I freeze pumpkin bagels? If so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your pumpkin bagels, place them in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat by toasting or using an air fryer for a fresh taste.

What should I do if my bagel dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is too sticky while kneading, sprinkle in additional flour gradually until it becomes manageable. Conversely, if it feels too dry, a splash of warm water can help. It’s essential to reach a smooth and elastic texture for perfect pumpkin bagels.

Can these bagels be made gluten-free?
Definitely, with the right adjustments! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum or use a specific bagel mix. If using a gluten-free option, ensure the ingredients are thoroughly combined, as gluten-free dough tends to be a bit different in texture.

Are pumpkin bagels safe for pets?
Yes! Pure, cooked pumpkin is generally safe for pets in small amounts. However, it’s best to keep them away from the spices and additives in your bagels. Always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about introducing new treats to your pet’s diet.