Cinnamon Crunch Sourdough Bagels Recipe
If you’re looking for a delightful way to elevate your breakfast or brunch, this Cinnamon Crunch Sourdough Bagels Recipe is just the ticket! These bagels are perfect for cozy mornings or festive gatherings. They combine the tangy goodness of sourdough with a sweet, cinnamon-spiced crunch that will make everyone’s taste buds dance. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make and can fill your home with a warm, inviting aroma that draws friends and family in.
This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen because it mixes classic bagel-making with fun flavors. Whether you’re having a lazy weekend at home or hosting a brunch bash, these bagels will bring smiles all around!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have fresh bagels in no time!
- Family-friendly: Everyone loves bagels! This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Make-ahead option: Prepare the dough overnight, and bake fresh bagels in the morning without any hassle.
- Delicious flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a crunchy topping that makes each bite heavenly.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! For this Cinnamon Crunch Sourdough Bagels Recipe, you’ll need simple and wholesome items that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Dough
- 150 grams sourdough starter, active & bubbly – fed in the past 6-8 hours
- 250 grams filtered water
- 28 grams honey
- 500 grams unbleached flour, all-purpose or bread flour
- 10 grams sea salt
For Boiling
- 1 Tbs sugar – to add to the boiling water
- 1 Tbs baking soda – to add to the boiling water
For the Cinnamon Crunch Filling
- 2 Tbs brown sugar
- 1 Tbs cinnamon
For the Topping
- 1/4 C brown sugar
- 3 Tbs cane sugar
- 1 1/2 Tbs cinnamon
- 4 Tbs unsalted butter, room temperature + 1 Tbs for brushing bagels
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and add your own twist.
- Add nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for an extra crunch.
- Incorporate fruits: Dried cranberries or raisins can add a lovely touch of sweetness inside.
- Try different spices: Swap out cinnamon for nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
- Make them savory: Omit the sugar and cinnamon, then add herbs and cheese for a savory version!
How to Make Cinnamon Crunch Sourdough Bagels Recipe
Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients
Using a kitchen scale, weigh your ingredients and add your sourdough starter, filtered water, and honey into a stand mixing bowl. Whisk them together until fully combined. This step is crucial as it activates the starter while also sweetening up your dough!
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Now it’s time to mix in your flour and sea salt. If you’re using a stand mixer, let it run slowly with the dough hook until everything comes together. If you’re mixing by hand, use a dough whisk or your hands. The goal here is to create dough that pulls away from the sides of the bowl—this means you’re on track!
Step 3: Let It Rise
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel. Let the dough sit for about 8-12 hours (or until doubled in size). The long rise time allows those lovely flavors to develop—patience pays off here!
Step 4: Shape Your Bagels
Once your dough has risen beautifully, place it on a clean counter (no flour needed!). Divide it into 8 equal parts—precision can be helpful here if you want uniform bagels.
Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon Filling
Mix up your cinnamon-brown sugar filling in another bowl while you shape each piece of dough into rectangles. This filling adds an irresistible sweetness inside each bagel.
Step 6: Roll Them Up
Roll each rectangle over the filling tightly, pinching ends so they stay closed. Then twist them into circles and pinch again where they meet. Placing these on parchment paper ensures easy transfer later!
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover those lovely shaped bagels with a damp tea towel again and let them rise for another 30 minutes to an hour until puffy. This second rise helps achieve that perfect chewy texture we love in bagels.
Step 8: Preheat Oven & Boil Water
While waiting for that second rise, go ahead and preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and boil water in a large pot with sugar and baking soda—a crucial step for achieving that iconic bagel crust!
Step 9: Boil Your Bagels
Once boiling, carefully drop in 3-4 bagels at a time using a slotted spoon. Boil each side for one minute before transferring them back onto their lined baking pan.
Step 10: Add Topping
Brush melted butter over each boiled bagel before adding that delicious cinnamon crunch topping mixture you made earlier.
Step 11: Bake to Perfection
Bake those beauties in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!
Step 12: Cool & Enjoy!
After baking, let them cool on a rack for about 15-30 minutes—if you can wait that long! They’re best enjoyed warm with butter or cream cheese.
And there you have it—your very own batch of warm, homemade Cinnamon Crunch Sourdough Bagels! Enjoy sharing these delightful treats with loved ones—or keep them all for yourself; I won’t tell!
Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Crunch Sourdough Bagels Recipe
Making bagels from scratch can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially with these helpful tips!
- Use an active sourdough starter – The key to achieving that perfect rise and texture lies in using a freshly fed starter. An active starter ensures your bagels will be fluffy and chewy.
- Ensure proper dough hydration – If your dough feels too dry during mixing, you can add a tablespoon of water. The right hydration level helps the dough to develop gluten, giving your bagels that wonderful chewiness.
- Be patient during rising – Allowing the dough to rise for the recommended time is crucial for flavor development. The longer fermentation time enhances the sourdough taste and improves the texture of your bagels.
- Boil bagels before baking – This step is essential for creating that iconic bagel crust. The boiling process helps set the exterior while keeping the inside soft and chewy.
- Adjust baking time according to your oven – Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your bagels towards the end of baking to ensure they reach that beautiful golden brown without burning.
How to Serve Cinnamon Crunch Sourdough Bagels Recipe
These cinnamon crunch sourdough bagels are not only delicious but also versatile! Here are some delightful ways to serve them at your next breakfast or brunch gathering.
Garnishes
- Fresh fruit slices – Add seasonal fruits like strawberries or bananas on the side for a colorful and refreshing contrast.
- Chopped nuts or seeds – A sprinkle of walnuts or sunflower seeds can add extra crunch and nutrition, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Side Dishes
- Greek yogurt with honey – A creamy and slightly tangy yogurt pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the bagels, making it a great accompaniment.
- Fruit salad – A vibrant mix of fresh fruits adds brightness and balances out the richness of the cinnamon crunch topping.
- Smoothies – A refreshing smoothie made with spinach, banana, and almond milk provides a nutritious drink option that complements your meal perfectly.
- Egg dishes (scrambled or poached) – Eggs provide protein and pair wonderfully with sweet flavors, making them an excellent side to enjoy alongside your bagels.
With these tips and serving ideas, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with homemade cinnamon crunch sourdough bagels! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Cinnamon Crunch Sourdough Bagels Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week or freeze them for later. Here’s how to store and preserve your delicious bagels.
Storing Leftovers
- Place leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- If you live in a humid environment, consider refrigerating them in a sealed bag to prevent spoilage.
- To maintain freshness, you can also wrap individual bagels in plastic wrap before storing.
Freezing
- Allow the bagels to cool completely on a baking rack.
- Wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped bagels in a freezer-safe zip-top bag; remove as much air as possible.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- To reheat frozen bagels, remove from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the thawed bagels on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
- Alternatively, slice the bagel in half and toast it for a quicker option!
FAQs
Here are some common questions that might pop up while making this delightful recipe.
Can I use a different kind of flour for the Cinnamon Crunch Sourdough Bagels Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with both all-purpose flour and bread flour. You can even experiment with whole wheat flour if you’re looking for a healthier twist.
How long does it take to make the Cinnamon Crunch Sourdough Bagels Recipe?
The total time includes an overnight rise, so plan on about 14 hours from start to finish. However, most of that time is just waiting while the dough rises!
Can I add toppings other than cinnamon sugar?
Sure! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Some delicious alternatives include sesame seeds, everything seasoning, or even a drizzle of maple syrup after baking.
What should I serve with my Cinnamon Crunch Sourdough Bagels?
These bagels taste wonderful on their own but pair beautifully with cream cheese, butter, or your favorite spreads like almond butter or fruit preserves.
How do I know when my sourdough starter is ready to use?
Your sourdough starter should be active and bubbly, having been fed within the last 6-8 hours. It should have doubled in size and have a pleasant tangy smell!
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making these Cinnamon Crunch Sourdough Bagels! They’re more than just breakfast; they’re an experience filled with warmth and flavor that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy every delicious bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors or toppings. Happy baking!
Cinnamon Crunch Sourdough Bagels
Elevate your breakfast or brunch with these delightful Cinnamon Crunch Sourdough Bagels! This recipe marries the tangy goodness of sourdough with a sweet cinnamon-spiced crunch, making every bite irresistible. Easy to prepare and perfect for cozy mornings or festive gatherings, these bagels will fill your home with a warm aroma that invites everyone in. Whether you’re enjoying a lazy weekend at home or hosting a brunch, these bagels are sure to bring smiles all around.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 8 servings (bagels) 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 150 grams sourdough starter (active & bubbly)
- 250 grams filtered water
- 28 grams honey
- 500 grams unbleached flour (all-purpose or bread flour)
- 10 grams sea salt
- 1 Tbs sugar (for boiling)
- 1 Tbs baking soda (for boiling)
- 2 Tbs brown sugar (for cinnamon filling)
- 1 Tbs cinnamon (for cinnamon filling)
- 1/4 C brown sugar (for topping)
- 3 Tbs cane sugar (for topping)
- 1 1/2 Tbs cinnamon (for topping)
- 4 Tbs unsalted butter (room temperature, plus 1 Tbs for brushing)
Instructions
- Combine the sourdough starter, filtered water, and honey in a mixing bowl and whisk until combined.
- Mix in the flour and sea salt until a cohesive dough forms.
- Cover and let rise for 8-12 hours until doubled.
- Divide the dough into 8 pieces and shape into bagels.
- Prepare the cinnamon filling and roll each bagel over it tightly.
- Let shaped bagels rise for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F and boil water with sugar and baking soda.
- Boil each bagel for one minute on each side before transferring to a lined baking pan.
- Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with topping mixture.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool on a rack before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel (90g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
