Delicious Cinnamon Sugar Bagels for a Cozy Breakfast

I remember the first time I made Cinnamon Sugar Bagels in my kitchen. It was a chilly Saturday morning, and I wanted something sweet but comforting to enjoy with my coffee. After a couple of trial runs, I finally nailed the perfect balance of chewy, soft homemade bagels with that irresistible cinnamon sugar topping. Now, baking Cinnamon Sugar Bagels has become a favorite part of my baking routine. There’s just something magical about pulling these warm, sweet bagels from the oven and smelling that warm cinnamon fill the air. It’s a recipe I always come back to when I want a little baked breakfast treat that feels homemade but not fussy.

The joy in Cinnamon Sugar Bagels comes from their simplicity and that classic sweetness that never gets old. Whether I’m making a batch for my family or baking up a dozen for a brunch with friends, these sweet bagels always bring smiles. What I love most is how approachable this bagel recipe is—no fancy ingredients or complicated steps. Just honest ingredients, a pinch of patience, and the reward of warm, soft bagels with a crunchy cinnamon sugar topping. If you love baked breakfast treats as much as I do, I promise you’ll enjoy making these Cinnamon Sugar Bagels as often as I do. Let’s bake together, shall we?

What You’ll Need for This Cinnamon Sugar Bagels:

Top down view of raw ingredients for cinnamon sugar bagels arranged on a marble surface

Here’s the simple ingredient list for this Cinnamon Sugar Bagels. These are easy to find in most grocery stores and won’t break the bank.

  • 4 cups bread flour (I always add a little extra for dusting)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (adds a touch of sweetness to the dough)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon instant yeast (don’t have instant? Active dry yeast works well too)
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F, perfect for activating the yeast)
  • 2 tablespoons cinnamon sugar topping mixture (more on how to make this below)
  • 1 egg white, beaten (for brushing on top before baking to get that beautiful sheen)
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon honey (mix into the boiling water for a light, subtle sweetness)
  • For the cinnamon sugar topping:
    • ½ cup granulated sugar
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Baking this Cinnamon Sugar Bagels is budget-friendly because it uses pantry staples that you might already have on hand. I like to prep the cinnamon sugar topping in bulk and store it in a jar—it keeps perfectly and is handy for quick sweet bagels or even other baked breakfast treats.

If you’re looking for a quick swap, granulated sugar in the topping can be swapped for brown sugar, which adds a deeper flavor. You can also use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour, though the bagels might be a little less chewy but still delightful.

A quick tip to save time—get your ingredients measured and ready before you start mixing; it makes the process smooth and fun. Also, keeping your yeast stored in the fridge or freezer helps it stay fresh longer for your homemade bagels.

This Cinnamon Sugar Bagels recipe sticks with simple ingredients because I believe great baking should be easy and accessible. Here’s my little trick that makes these bagels extra wonderful: mixing part of the cinnamon sugar inside the dough gives it a subtle sweetness throughout, while the top gets that crunchy cinnamon sugar topping.

How to Make This Cinnamon Sugar Bagels:

Making Cinnamon Sugar Bagels is a joy when you break it down step-by-step. Here’s how we’ll do it together:

  1. Start by mixing the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine your bread flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. If your yeast isn’t instant, dissolve it first in the warm water with a pinch of sugar and let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly. This is a good sign you’re on track for great dough.
  2. Add the water. Pour your warm water slowly into the dry mix, stirring with a spoon or your hand until a shaggy dough forms. If you like, mix in a tablespoon of cinnamon sugar topping now for extra flavor inside your Cinnamon Sugar Bagels.
  3. Knead the dough. Turn your dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should be smooth, firm, and slightly tacky but not sticky. This step really sets the chewy texture that defines homemade bagels.
  4. Let it rise. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This patience pays off with that perfect, soft crumb inside.
  5. Shape your bagels. Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball, then poke a hole through the middle to form a bagel shape. Stretch the hole gently to about 2-3 inches across.
  6. Boil the bagels. This step is key. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Boil each bagel for 1-2 minutes per side. This gives them that classic shiny crust and chew. Add a tablespoon of honey to the boiling water if you want a subtly sweet finish.
  7. Add the cinnamon sugar topping. Remove boiled bagels with a slotted spoon and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Brush each with beaten egg white. Then sprinkle that cinnamon sugar topping generously on top.
  8. Bake your bagels. Bake in a preheated 425°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through if you like even browning. Your kitchen will smell heavenly when these Cinnamon Sugar Bagels are almost done.
  9. Cool and enjoy! Let the bagels rest on a wire rack for a few minutes before biting in. They’re best warm but still delicious at room temperature.

From start to finish, this Cinnamon Sugar Bagels recipe takes about 3 hours, factoring in rising and baking, but trust me, the results are worth every minute. While they bake, you can tidy up your kitchen or check out some other inspiration like my Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread for a next treat.

Remember, a gentle touch in shaping and boiling makes all the difference. If your bagels look a bit dense before boiling, don’t worry—that oven magic will open them up.

Serving Your Cinnamon Sugar Bagels:

Close-up photo of finished comforting cinnamon sugar bagels with a slightly angled view

I love serving these Cinnamon Sugar Bagels warm with a soft smear of butter or cream cheese. The cinnamon sugar topping adds just the right crunch and sweetness without needing any extra jam or honey. For a special treat, try pairing these bagels with a cup of fresh brewed coffee or chai tea—it’s a match made in heaven.

These sweet bagels are perfect for weekend breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or even as a quick snack. I’ve brought them to family get-togethers, and they’re always a crowd-pleaser. One of my favorite simple decoration ideas is to sprinkle a little more cinnamon sugar on top just before serving for that extra sparkle.

Leftover Cinnamon Sugar Bagels? No worries! Toast them lightly and serve with your favorite spread or transform them into bagel French toast for a creative twist. Seasonal variations like adding toasted pecans to the cinnamon sugar topping have been a hit in my kitchen too.

This recipe also reminds me of the wonderful sourdough versions I’ve seen, like the ones on Farmhouse on Boone’s post about sourdough cinnamon crunch bagels, which offer a tangy twist if you want to experiment.

For those who enjoy this, you might love trying a bagel twist inspired by i am baker’s Cinnamon Sugar Bagel recipe. It’s always exciting to see how a basic concept can be shaped in new ways.

Common Questions About This Cinnamon Sugar Bagels:

Can I make this Cinnamon Sugar Bagels ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can shape and boil your bagels, then freeze them before baking. When you’re ready, just bake them straight from the freezer—add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What’s a good substitute for bread flour in this Cinnamon Sugar Bagels recipe?
You can use all-purpose flour if that’s what you have. Your bagels will still turn out tasty but a little less chewy. I’ve tried it both ways, and it’s nice as a quick swap.

Can I adjust this Cinnamon Sugar Bagels recipe for smaller or larger bagels?
Yes! Just divide the dough into smaller or larger portions. For smaller bagels, reduce the boiling and baking time slightly since the cook time depends on size.

How do I store leftover Cinnamon Sugar Bagels?
Store them in an airtight container or bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze bagels individually wrapped.

Can I use a different cinnamon sugar topping?
Definitely! Some friends use brown sugar or mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a twist. Check out this Facebook discussion on cinnamon sugar toppings for great suggestions.

Can I make these bagels vegan?
For vegan Cinnamon Sugar Bagels, substitute the egg white with a little plant-based milk or melted coconut oil for brushing. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.

What if my Cinnamon Sugar Bagels turn out dense?
This usually means the dough didn’t rise enough or the water was too hot/too cold for the yeast. Try to keep the water warm (about 110°F), and give the dough enough time to double in size.

Do I really need to boil the bagels?
Yes, boiling gives bagels their signature chewy crust. It’s the key difference between bagels and regular bread rolls.

If you want to try some creative spins, pairing this recipe with ideas from my other baked breakfast treats like cranberry raisin walnut cinnamon artisan bread can fill your kitchen with warmth and variety.

Final Thoughts on This Cinnamon Sugar Bagels:

This Cinnamon Sugar Bagels recipe has a special place in my heart. It reminds me of cozy mornings, cherished family moments, and the satisfaction of baking something that’s truly homemade and delicious. Every time I make it, I’m reminded why I love sharing recipes that are approachable and rewarding.

My Top Tips for This Cinnamon Sugar Bagels:
– Use warm water for the yeast—it’s the secret to good rise every time.
– Don’t skip boiling; it creates that iconic chewy crust.
– Be generous with your cinnamon sugar topping—it adds flavor and texture that friends and family adore.

For delicious variations, I often mix raisins or chopped nuts into the dough, swirl in a bit more cinnamon sugar inside, or swap honey for maple syrup in the boiling water. The cinnamon sugar bagel with extra crunchy topping gets requested most around here—it’s a true crowd-pleaser.

Fellow bakers, I encourage you to make this recipe your own. Experiment with toppings, flavors, or even dipping sauces. I hope you love the warmth and sunshine these Cinnamon Sugar Bagels bring to your kitchen as much as I do.

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also enjoy my twist on breakfast favorites like Cinnamon Roll Pancakes. Happy baking, friends! Your perfect batch of Cinnamon Sugar Bagels awaits.

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Cinnamon Sugar Bagels

Close-up of freshly prepared cinnamon sugar bagels on white plate

Delight in these soft, sweet Cinnamon Sugar Bagels, perfect for a cozy breakfast or snack. They are lightly spiced and coated with a crunchy cinnamon sugar topping for a comforting treat.

  • Author: Belinda Taylor
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 bagels
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for topping)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add 3 tablespoons sugar, cinnamon, vegetable oil, and salt to the yeast mixture; stir to combine.
  3. Gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for about 8-10 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Shape each into a ball and poke a hole through the center to form a bagel shape.
  7. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Boil bagels 2 at a time for 1 minute on each side; remove with a slotted spoon and place on the baking sheet.
  8. Mix 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon in a shallow bowl. While bagels are still wet, dip each into the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
  9. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For extra indulgence, spread cream cheese or butter on warm bagels, or toast lightly before serving to enhance the cinnamon sugar crunch.

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