Image Source from macy_welk

Sourdough Cinnamon Raisin Bagels Recipe

Bagels have long been a beloved staple in many households, cherished for their chewy texture and versatility. When combined with the lovely sweet flavours of cinnamon and raisins, they transform into an irresistible treat that can be enjoyed at breakfast or as a delightful snack. This recipe harnesses the tangy goodness of sourdough, resulting in bagels that are not only flavourful but also wonderfully textured.

Ingredients

To make approximately 8 bagels, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 500g strong white bread flour
• 200g active sourdough starter (fed 4-6 hours prior)
• 300ml warm water
• 50g light brown sugar
• 10g salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 150g raisins (or sultanas)
• 50g chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch)

For Boiling:

• Water (for boiling)
• 2 tablespoons honey or malt syrup (optional, for added flavour)

For Topping (optional):

• Cinnamon sugar (mix of sugar and ground cinnamon)

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Dough scraper
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Tall pot for boiling
• Slotted spoon
• Cooling rack

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. In a separate bowl, mix the warm water with the active sourdough starter until well combined.

2. Combine the Mixtures: Pour the starter mixture into the dry ingredients. Add the salt and mix until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Incorporate the Raisins: Once the mixture has come together, add the raisins (and nuts, if using). Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 2: First Rise

1. Bulk Fermentation: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or cling film, and let it rise at room temperature for approximately 4-6 hours, or until it has doubled in size. You can also leave it overnight in the fridge for a slower fermentation which enhances flavour.

Step 3: Shape the Bagels

1. Divide the Dough: Once risen, gently deflate the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.

2. Shape the Bagels: Take each piece and roll it into a ball. Poke a hole in the centre with your thumb and gently stretch the dough to form a ring. Aim for a bagel thickness of about 2.5 cm, as the dough will expand when boiled and baked.

Step 4: Second Rise

1. Rest the Bagels: Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure there is enough space between each one. Cover them lightly with a damp cloth and let them rest for about 30-45 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare to Boil

1. Boil the Water: In a tall pot, bring at least 4 litres of water to a gentle boil. If desired, add honey or malt syrup for flavour.

Step 6: Boil the Bagels

1. Boil Each Bagel: Carefully place a few bagels at a time into the boiling water. Boil for 1-2 minutes on each side. The longer you boil, the denser the bagel will be. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them back on the baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake the Bagels

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan)/425°F.

2. Bake: Place the boiled bagels into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown. If you’re using cinnamon sugar, sprinkle it over the bagels 5 minutes before they are done baking.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

1. Cool: Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and place them on a cooling rack to cool completely.

2. Enjoy: Serve with cream cheese, butter, or your favourite spread, or simply enjoy them as they are. These delightful sourdough cinnamon raisin bagels are sure to become a favourite in your home!

Conclusion

With a little patience and care, homemade sourdough cinnamon raisin bagels can be a rewarding baking project. The combination of sourdough tang, sweet cinnamon, and plump raisins creates a perfect balance that is hard to resist. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted later, these bagels make for a delicious treat any time of day. Happy baking!

No items listed in the response.