Cinnamon Raisin Bagel with Cream Cheese

There’s nothing quite like a freshly toasted Cinnamon Raisin Bagel slathered with creamy, velvety cream cheese. The delightful blend of sweet cinnamon and plump raisins makes every bite warm, cozy, and nostalgic — like a comforting hug in breakfast form. The slightly chewy bagel texture combined with the luscious creaminess of cream cheese creates an irresistible contrast that keeps you coming back for more.

Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a snack on the go, this bagel is a true classic that never goes out of style. It’s simple, wholesome, and feels like something straight from a bakery — only fresher and better because it’s homemade.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines simplicity, nostalgia, and comfort in one bite. The aroma of cinnamon while baking instantly fills the kitchen with warmth, and biting into a toasted bagel with melted cream cheese is pure bliss.

Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility — you can enjoy it plain, with honey butter, or even as a breakfast sandwich. Plus, making bagels from scratch is surprisingly easy and incredibly rewarding.

It’s one of those recipes that brings joy to both the maker and the eater — the perfect weekend baking project that leaves your home smelling heavenly.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it gives you the authentic texture and flavor of bakery-style bagels right from your kitchen. Store-bought bagels are good, but homemade ones are on another level — softer, fresher, and customizable.

The combination of sweet raisins, cinnamon, and a creamy spread makes it ideal for any time of day. You can enjoy it as a breakfast treat, afternoon pick-me-up, or even a light dessert.

It’s a perfect introduction to homemade bread baking — simple yet impressive, satisfying yet healthy.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Boiling and Baking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: About 2 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 8 bagels
• Calories: Approximately 310 kcal per bagel (with cream cheese ~380 kcal)

Cuisine: American

Course: Breakfast / Brunch / Snack

Ingredients

For the Bagel Dough:

• 3 ½ cups (440 g) bread flour
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup raisins (soaked in warm water for 10 minutes and drained)

For Boiling:

• 6 cups water
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for glossy crust)

For Topping and Serving:

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• Optional: honey drizzle, cinnamon sugar dusting, or butter

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Prepare dough by mixing warm water, yeast, and sugar.
2. Add flour, cinnamon, salt, and raisins. Knead until smooth.
3. Let rise for about 1 hour.
4. Shape into bagels and let rest.
5. Boil each bagel briefly, then bake until golden.
6. Cool slightly and serve with cream cheese.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and knead until a dough forms. Add the drained raisins and continue kneading for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Bagels

Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions. Shape each into a ball, then poke a hole through the center and stretch gently to form a ring. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Rest Again

Cover the shaped bagels and let them rest for 20 minutes while you prepare to boil them.

Step 6: Boil the Bagels

Bring a large pot of water with brown sugar to a gentle boil. Drop each bagel in for 30 seconds per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow bagels to cool slightly before slicing. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese and enjoy warm!

How to Serve

• Slice and toast lightly before adding cream cheese for that perfect crunch.
• Add toppings like honey, nut butter, or sliced bananas for extra flavor.
• Serve as a breakfast sandwich with eggs and bacon for a savory twist.
• Enjoy with a cup of hot coffee or chai for a comforting breakfast experience.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Always soak the raisins before adding them — it keeps them soft and prevents burning.
• Use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for that classic chewy bagel texture.
• For extra flavor, brush the bagels with a light egg wash before baking.
• If your dough feels too dry, add 1 tablespoon of water at a time.
• Boiling in brown sugar water gives the bagels their signature sheen and sweetness.

Variations

Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Bagels: Replace raisins with mini chocolate chips.
Apple Cinnamon Bagels: Add ¼ cup finely chopped dried apples.
Cinnamon Raisin Walnut Bagels: Fold in chopped walnuts for crunch.
Honey Cinnamon Bagels: Add 1 tablespoon honey to the dough for sweetness.
Whole Wheat Version: Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

Freezing and Storage

• Room Temperature: Store cooled bagels in an airtight bag for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate: Keeps fresh for up to 5 days (toast before serving).
• Freeze (Unfilled): Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and toast to refresh.
• Cream Cheese Storage: Keep cream cheese refrigerated and use within 7 days of opening.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful)
• Pot for boiling
• Slotted spoon
• Baking sheet with parchment paper
• Oven
• Cooling rack

FAQs

Q1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.

Q2: Do I have to boil the bagels?
Yes — boiling is what gives bagels their signature chewy texture and glossy crust.

Q3: Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free bread flour blend designed for yeast recipes.

Q4: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, skip the activation step and mix it directly with flour.

Q5: What’s the best cream cheese to use?
Full-fat plain cream cheese gives the richest taste, but flavored options like honey, vanilla, or maple work beautifully too.

Conclusion

The Cinnamon Raisin Bagel with Cream Cheese is a timeless classic that combines warmth, sweetness, and comfort in every bite. From its chewy, golden crust to the soft, cinnamon-infused interior, it’s the perfect way to start your day or enjoy a mid-afternoon treat.

Making these bagels at home is not just rewarding — it’s an experience that fills your kitchen with joy and your heart with satisfaction.