Name: Warm and Chewy Homemade Pumpkin Bagels for Fall Mornings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 525 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup warm water (at ~115°F); 1 packet active dry yeast (approx. 2.25 tsp); 1/2 cup pumpkin puree; 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed); 3 cups bread flour; 2 tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1.25 tsp coarse kosher sea salt; 1 tbsp baking soda; 1 no egg white; 1 tbsp water; 6 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 tbsp honey; 1/4 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp cinnamon; pinch coarse kosher sea salt; 2 tbsp chopped pecans (toasted)

As the leaves begin to swirl and the air turns crisp, I find myself craving the warmth of homemade comfort food. That’s why I’ve been whipping up these delightful homemade pumpkin bagels, perfect for those cozy fall mornings. They come alive with vibrant spices and a pleasing chew, topped with a decadent whipped honey pecan cream cheese spread that elevates breakfast into a special event. Not only are these bagels quick to prepare, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings, but they also give you a taste of the season in every bite. Ready to embrace the essence of autumn in your kitchen? Let’s get started on these delicious homemade pumpkin bagels!

Why are Pumpkin Bagels a Must-Try?

Comforting Flavors: Experience the warmth of fall with every bite of these bagels, enhanced by a blend of cozy spices.

Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even beginners can impress their family and friends with these delightful homemade treats.

Versatile Toppings: Customize your bagel experience with unique spreads like the whipped honey pecan cream cheese or even a classic butter; the options are endless.

Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time, and simply store them for busy mornings. They freeze beautifully and reheat like a dream!

Great Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s brunch with friends or just a simple family breakfast, these bagels will surely be the star of the table, leaving everyone asking for seconds.

Homemade Pumpkin Bagel Ingredients

For the Bagels

Warm water (3/4 cup at ~115°F) – Activates yeast for dough rise; use milk for a richer flavor.
Active dry yeast (1 packet, approx. 2.25 tsp) – Provides leavening; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
Pumpkin puree (1/2 cup) – Adds moisture and flavor; butternut squash or sweet potato puree can also be used.
Brown sugar (1/3 cup, packed) – Sweetens dough and helps with browning; white sugar can substitute if needed.
Bread flour (3 cups) – High gluten content offers structure; all-purpose flour will yield a less chewy bagel.
Cinnamon (2 tsp) – Enhances flavor and aroma; nutmeg can be swapped for a different spice profile.
Pumpkin pie spice (1 tsp) – Blends traditional fall spices; create your own mix with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice.
Coarse kosher sea salt (1.25 tsp) – Balances sweetness; regular salt can be used if kosher salt isn’t available.
Baking soda (1 tbsp) – Used for boiling the bagels to enhance texture; malt extract is an alternative.
Egg white (1) + water (1 tbsp) – For an egg wash that promotes browning; milk works as a substitute.

For the Cream Cheese Spread

Cream cheese (6 oz, softened) – The base for the topping spread; lower-fat cream cheese can be used.
Honey (1 tbsp) – Sweetens the spread; maple syrup offers a delightful alternative.
Vanilla extract (1/4 tsp) – Enhances the flavor profile of the cream cheese spread.
Cinnamon (1/4 tsp) – Adds warmth to the cream cheese spread; can upgrade the flavor.
Coarse kosher sea salt (pinch) – Balances flavors beautifully.
Chopped pecans (2 tbsp, toasted) – Adds a lovely crunch; any nuts can be swapped if desired.

These homemade pumpkin bagels are not only delectable but also an exciting way to celebrate the season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Pumpkin Bagels

Step 1: Proof Yeast
In a small bowl, combine 3/4 cup of warm water (approx. 115°F), one packet of active dry yeast, and a pinch of brown sugar. Stir gently and let it stand for about 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. This step is crucial for ensuring your homemade pumpkin bagels rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In the bowl of a stand mixer, blend 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree with 1/3 cup of brown sugar until thoroughly combined. Once your yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the pumpkin mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is well incorporated, creating a smooth and rich base for your bagel dough.

Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of bread flour, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and 1.25 teaspoons of coarse kosher sea salt. This blend of dry ingredients will provide flavor and structure to your homemade pumpkin bagels. Ensure there are no lumps before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Form Dough
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in your stand mixer, mixing on low speed until a sticky dough forms. Once combined, switch to a dough hook and knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which is essential for the perfect chewy texture of your bagels.

Step 5: First Rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Place the bowl in a warm area and let it rise until doubled in size, approximately 1 to 2 hours. This first rise is critical for the development of flavor and texture in your homemade pumpkin bagels.

Step 6: Shape Bagels
Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a bagel by rolling it into a ball and creating a hole in the center. Ensure the hole is large enough to prevent it from closing during the next steps.

Step 7: Chill
After shaping the bagels, place them on a lined baking sheet. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. Chilling enhances the flavor and texture, making your homemade pumpkin bagels even more delightful.

Step 8: Préheat & Boil
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 450°F. In a large pot, bring about 4 quarts of water to a gentle boil and stir in 1 tablespoon of baking soda. This boiling process is crucial for achieving that classic bagel texture, so make sure the water is bubbling before proceeding.

Step 9: Egg Wash & Bake
Carefully drop each bagel into the boiling water, cooking for 45 seconds on each side. Remove the bagels, placing them back on the lined baking sheet. Brush each bagel with a mixture of 1 egg white and 1 tablespoon of water for an appealing shine. Optionally, sprinkle melted butter and brown sugar on top before baking for added sweetness.

Step 10: Make Cream Cheese Spread
While the bagels are baking, prepare the whipped honey pecan cream cheese spread. In a bowl, beat 6 oz of softened cream cheese with 1 tablespoon of honey, 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon until smooth and creamy. Stir in 2 tablespoons of toasted chopped pecans for delightful crunch and flavor.

Step 11: Cool and Serve
After baking for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown, remove your homemade pumpkin bagels from the oven. Allow them to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving warm with the whipped honey pecan cream cheese spread. Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall at breakfast!

Storage Tips for Homemade Pumpkin Bagels

Room Temperature: Store your bagels in a sealed bag at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and maintain their delightful chewiness.

Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, keep the bagels in the fridge where they can last for up to 1 week. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your homemade pumpkin bagels for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating: To enjoy the bagels after freezing, simply thaw them at room temperature, then reheat in a toaster or oven until warm and slightly crispy.

Homemade Pumpkin Bagels: Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize these delightful bagels to suit your taste and dietary needs, creating a treat that’s uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these bagels without gluten while maintaining a satisfying texture.
Vegan: Replace the egg wash with a plant-based milk for browning, and choose a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the spread.
Chocolate Chip Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet and indulgent bite that kids and adults will love.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the dough for a warm, spicy contrast to the sweet pumpkin flavors.
Savory Enhancements: Mix in 1/4 cup of shredded cheese into the dough for a cheesy version that pairs wonderfully with the honey pecan spread.
Herbs & Spices: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant, savory spin on these bagels.
Nut-Free: Swap the chopped pecans in the cream cheese for sunflower seeds or omit them entirely if nut allergies are a concern.
Pumpkin Pie Spice Upgrade: For a bolder flavor, increase the pumpkin pie spice to 1.5 teaspoons and reduce the cinnamon slightly for added warmth.

With these creative spins, your homemade pumpkin bagels will satisfy every craving, and don’t forget to explore all the delicious serving suggestions that pair beautifully with this tasty treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Pumpkin Bagels are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to simplify breakfast! You can prepare the dough and shape the bagels up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them after shaping to enhance their flavor and texture. If you’re really pressed for time, the cream cheese spread can be whipped up and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful bagels, you simply need to boil and bake them, as described in the recipe. This way, you’ll have warm, delicious bagels ready to serve with minimal effort, perfect for those cozy fall mornings!

What to Serve with Homemade Pumpkin Bagels

Warm, inviting, and utterly delightful, these pumpkin bagels set the stage for a cozy autumn breakfast feast.

Creamy Avocado Toast: The buttery richness of avocado brings a lush texture that complements the spiced bagels beautifully. Top with a sprinkle of salt and chili flakes for added flavor.
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal bursting with apple and cinnamon ties together the flavors of fall, making it a perfect sidekick to your bagels.
Smoky Bacon: Crispy, smoky bacon pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pumpkin bagels, offering a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of pure maple syrup adds a sweet, caramel note that enhances your pumpkin bagels, especially with the honey pecan cream cheese spread.
Fruit Salad Medley: A fresh fruit salad with seasonal fruits like pears, apples, and cranberries lightens up the meal, providing a refreshing balance to the warm bagels.
Warm Spiced Chai: A cup of warm spiced chai brings a comforting, aromatic beverage to the table, enhancing the cozy vibes of your breakfast.
Nutty Granola Parfait: Layered with yogurt, granola, and fresh berries, this parfait offers a crunch that contrasts with the chewy bagels, making for a texturally interesting breakfast.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the ultimate fall drink! A frothy pumpkin spice latte serves as a wonderful accompaniment, harmonizing perfectly with the flavors in your bagels.

Expert Tips for Homemade Pumpkin Bagels

Fresh Yeast Matters: Ensure your active dry yeast is fresh and bubbly to achieve the perfect rise in your homemade pumpkin bagels.
Chilling is Key: Don’t skip the chilling step; letting the shaped bagels rest in the fridge improves their flavor and texture significantly.
Boil with Care: Boiling bagels in water with baking soda is essential for that chewy crust. Make sure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the bagels.
Proper Cooking Time: Ovens vary; start checking your bagels around 13 minutes to prevent over-baking. Aim for a rich golden brown color.
Gentle Handling: When shaping your bagels, handle the dough gently to maintain the airiness. Overworking can result in flat bagels.
Customize Flavors: Feel free to adjust spices or add-ins in your homemade pumpkin bagels, like chocolate chips or different nuts, for a personal touch!

Homemade Pumpkin Bagels Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for a rich, vibrant orange color and a thick consistency. Avoid puree with dark spots or excessive water; it should be smooth without lumps. If using fresh pumpkins, opt for varieties like sugar pumpkins, which are sweeter and more flavorful.

How long can I store homemade pumpkin bagels?
You can store your homemade pumpkin bagels in a sealed bag at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’re looking to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to 1 week but make sure they are tightly wrapped to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze pumpkin bagels? If so, how?
Yes! To freeze your homemade pumpkin bagels, first allow them to cool completely after baking. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and reheat in a toaster or a warm oven for best results.

What if my bagels don’t rise properly?
Very good question! If your bagels don’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh by proofing it in warm water before starting. If the mixture doesn’t foam after 5–10 minutes, it’s best to start over with new yeast. Also, make sure your dough is kept in a warm, draft-free area during the rising process.

Are these bagels suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, these homemade pumpkin bagels are completely vegetarian! If you’re making the cream cheese spread, you can opt for lower-fat or dairy-free cream cheese alternatives to accommodate specific dietary preferences. Additionally, ensure any add-ins like nuts do not trigger any allergies for those you serve.

How do I ensure my bagels come out chewy?
To achieve that delightful chewiness, it’s essential to use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour, as the higher gluten content gives bagels their characteristic texture. Don’t skip the boiling step; it’s key for creating the perfect crust. Lastly, allowing the shaped bagels to chill in the refrigerator before boiling can significantly improve their texture!