Pumpkin Spice Bagels are a delightful twist on traditional bagels, infusing the warm flavors of pumpkin and aromatic spices into a chewy, dense bread. These bagels are perfect for autumn mornings, offering a seasonal treat that pairs wonderfully with cream cheese or your favorite spread.

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Ingredients

1 cup warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
¼ cup packed brown sugar
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
1 ½ teaspoons salt
5 cups bread flour
6 cups water
1 tablespoon white sugar
1 tablespoon cornmeal

Directions

Prepare the yeast mixture: In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let stand until the yeast softens and begins to form a creamy foam, about 5 minutes.
Mix in wet ingredients: Stir pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves into the yeast mixture until smooth.
Incorporate dry ingredients: Add salt and bread flour gradually, mixing until a stiff dough forms.
Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 to 10 minutes.
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Shape the bagels: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center with your finger and stretch to form a ring.
Second rise: Place the shaped bagels on a lightly floured surface, cover with a damp cloth, and let rest for 15 minutes.
Boil the bagels: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Fill a large pot with 6 cups of water and white sugar; bring to a boil. Slightly flatten the bagels and drop a couple at a time into the boiling water; cook for 1 1/2 minutes. Flip bagels and boil for another 1 1/2 minutes; remove with a slotted spoon and dry on a clean towel. Repeat with remaining bagels.
Bake the bagels: Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray and sprinkle cornmeal on the sheet. Arrange bagels on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, 15 to 20 minutes.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 220 kcal
Total Fat: 1 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 290 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Dietary Fiber: 2 g
- Sugars: 4 g
Protein: 7 g

The Popularity of Pumpkin Spice Flavors

Pumpkin spice has become synonymous with autumn, filling coffee shops, bakeries, and grocery stores with an array of seasonal treats. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger creates a cozy and nostalgic flavor that many look forward to every year. Pumpkin Spice Bagels are part of this beloved trend, offering a delicious way to enjoy the classic taste of fall.

One reason pumpkin spice is so popular is its association with seasonal traditions. Many people associate the scent and taste with holidays, family gatherings, and cooler weather. The comforting blend of spices enhances baked goods, beverages, and even savory dishes, making it a versatile and timeless flavor.

What Makes Pumpkin Spice Bagels Unique?

Pumpkin Spice Bagels stand out from traditional bagels for several reasons:

Infused with Real Pumpkin: Unlike plain bagels, these contain real pumpkin puree, adding natural sweetness and moisture.
Warm Spices: The addition of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves enhances the flavor and gives them a signature autumn taste.
Golden Color: The pumpkin gives these bagels a rich, golden hue, making them visually appealing and perfect for festive occasions.
Slightly Sweet Flavor: They have a mild sweetness that pairs well with a variety of spreads and toppings.

Perfect Pairings for Pumpkin Spice Bagels

Pumpkin Spice Bagels are delicious on their own, but pairing them with complementary flavors takes them to the next level. Here are some great ways to enjoy them:

Cream Cheese: A classic choice that balances the sweetness with a creamy texture. Flavored cream cheese, such as maple or cinnamon, enhances the autumn flavors.
Butter and Honey: A simple yet delicious combination that brings out the natural sweetness of the bagel.
Nut Butter: Almond, peanut, or cashew butter adds protein and a rich, nutty taste.
Greek Yogurt and Granola: For a nutritious twist, top with a spread of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola for crunch.
Apple or Pumpkin Butter: These spreads add an extra layer of autumn flavor and complement the spices in the bagel.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Bagels

There are several ways to serve and enjoy Pumpkin Spice Bagels beyond the traditional toasted-with-butter method. Some creative serving ideas include:

Pumpkin Spice Bagel Sandwich: Use it as a base for a breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese.
French Toast Style: Dip in an egg mixture with cinnamon and cook on a griddle for a unique French toast experience.
Dessert Bagel: Spread with sweetened mascarpone cheese and top with chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
Bagel Chips: Slice and bake for crispy bagel chips that pair well with dips like hummus or yogurt-based spreads.

The Health Benefits of Pumpkin in Baking

Pumpkin is not just a flavorful ingredient—it’s also packed with nutrients that provide health benefits. Some advantages of including pumpkin in your diet include:

Rich in Vitamins: Pumpkin is high in vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and immune function.
Low in Calories: Despite its natural sweetness, pumpkin is low in calories, making it a great addition to baked goods.
High in Fiber: Helps with digestion and keeps you full longer.
Loaded with Antioxidants: Contains beta-carotene, which has been linked to reduced inflammation and heart health benefits.

By incorporating pumpkin into bagels, you get a flavorful treat with added nutritional benefits.

Storing and Preserving Pumpkin Spice Bagels

To keep your bagels fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. Here’s how to store them for maximum freshness:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight bag or container for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to a week. Toast before serving to restore texture.
Freezing: For long-term storage, slice the bagels in half and freeze them in an airtight bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or oven.

Variations of Pumpkin Spice Bagels

Pumpkin Spice Bagels can be customized in different ways to suit individual preferences. Some variations include:

Whole Wheat Pumpkin Spice Bagels: Substitute half of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend for those with dietary restrictions.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bagels: Mix in chocolate chips for a sweet and indulgent twist.
Nutty Pumpkin Spice Bagels: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
Vegan Pumpkin Spice Bagels: Use plant-based milk and a flaxseed egg substitute for a dairy-free, egg-free option.

Why You Should Try Homemade Pumpkin Spice Bagels

While store-bought bagels are convenient, making homemade Pumpkin Spice Bagels allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor. Here’s why homemade is the best choice:

No Artificial Preservatives: Many store-bought bagels contain preservatives and additives. Homemade bagels are made with natural ingredients.
Better Texture: Freshly baked bagels have a chewier texture and richer taste compared to pre-packaged versions.
Customizable Flavor: Adjust the spice levels, sweetness, and toppings to your preference.
Fun Baking Activity: Making bagels from scratch is a rewarding experience, and they make a great weekend baking project.

The Role of Boiling in Bagel-Making

One unique aspect of making bagels is the boiling step before baking. Boiling the bagels briefly in water helps set the crust and gives them their signature chewy texture. This step also enhances the bagel’s ability to hold its shape while baking, resulting in a beautifully golden and well-formed bagel.

For Pumpkin Spice Bagels, the boiling process remains essential, ensuring that the final product has the right balance of softness and chewiness.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Spice Bagels are a perfect seasonal treat that combines warm autumn flavors with the satisfying chew of a traditional bagel. They are versatile, delicious, and easy to pair with various spreads and toppings. Whether you enjoy them as a cozy breakfast, a creative sandwich, or a sweet snack, they bring the comforting taste of fall to your table.

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