The Cinnamon Sugar Bagel from Einstein Bros. Bagels features a golden, toasted bagel generously coated with a sweet blend of cinnamon and sugar, delivering a warm, crunchy exterior and a soft, chewy inside that's perfect for a cozy breakfast treat.
Equipments
- Bagel slicer
- Toaster or conveyor toaster
- Pastry brush
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or whisk
- Tongs
- Sheet pan
Ingredients
- 2 plain bagels
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 1/2 cups bread flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1 egg white
Your choice of cinnamon and sugar blend is key to replicating the iconic Cinnamon Sugar Bagel from Einstein Bros. Bagels, so use a balanced mixture of ground cinnamon and granulated sugar to achieve that signature sweet and warm flavor. Unsalted butter should be melted for an even coating that enhances the bagel's golden, crunchy crust without overpowering the taste. When selecting bread flour and yeast, ensure freshness to create the perfect chewy texture inside. Topping the bagel with a cinnamon sugar mixture before baking is essential for that irresistible crispness on the outside. The Cinnamon Sugar Bagel from Einstein Bros. Bagels copycat menu captures this delicious contrast between crunchy exterior and soft interior for a cozy breakfast experience you'll love.
Instructions
- **Instructions:**
- In a mixing bowl, combine bread flour, active dry yeast, salt, 1 tablespoon sugar, and warm water.
- Mix until a dough forms, knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Cover and let dough rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Punch down dough and divide into 2 equal pieces.
- Shape each piece into a ball and poke a hole through the center, forming a bagel shape.
- Let shaped bagels rest for 10 minutes.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 2 tablespoons granulated sugar.
- Boil each bagel for 1 minute on each side, then place on a sheet pan.
- In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon for topping.
- Brush boiled bagels with egg white.
- Sprinkle or dip bagels generously in cinnamon sugar topping.
- Bake on a sheet pan for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let bagels cool slightly.
- Slice bagels in half using a bagel slicer.
- Brush cut sides with melted butter using a pastry brush.
- Toast bagel halves in a toaster or conveyor toaster until golden and crisp.
- Sprinkle additional cinnamon sugar mixture on top if desired, using tongs to handle hot bagels.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Substitution
The Cinnamon Sugar Bagel from Einstein Bros. Bagels copycat recipe replicates the signature sweet and crunchy texture with a simple homemade approach. If you don't have unsalted butter, you can substitute it with salted butter but reduce added salt slightly to balance flavors. When active dry yeast is unavailable, instant yeast works well and can be mixed directly with flour without proofing. Use a pastry brush to evenly coat the bagels with egg white before sprinkling the cinnamon sugar topping for optimal adhesion and shine. You can easily adapt the recipe by swapping plain bagels for whole wheat or multigrain varieties to customize your breakfast while maintaining the beloved cinnamon sugar flavor.
Tips
You should ensure the dough is kneaded thoroughly for 8-10 minutes to develop the gluten, which creates a chewy texture typical of bagels. Boiling the bagels in water with added sugar before baking is crucial; it sets the crust and helps achieve a shiny, golden exterior. When brushing the bagels with egg white, do so evenly to ensure the cinnamon sugar topping adheres well and bakes into a crunchy layer. Use tongs carefully when handling hot, toasted bagels to avoid burns and maintain their shape.
Nutritions
A Cinnamon Sugar Bagel from Einstein Bros. is rich in carbohydrates, providing a quick source of energy through its bread flour base. The cinnamon and sugar topping adds natural antioxidants and a moderate amount of sugars. With 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter brushed on, the bagel includes some healthy fats that enhance flavor and texture. Your breakfast choice offers a balanced combination of carbs, fats, and a small amount of protein from the yeast and egg white used in preparation.
Storage
Store your Cinnamon Sugar Bagels in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their soft interior and crunchy exterior for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag before freezing; thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy. Avoid refrigerating the bagels as this can cause them to become stale more quickly.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the bread flour with all-purpose flour for a slightly softer bagel texture. Try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough to enhance the cinnamon sugar flavor. Instead of boiling the bagels in sugar water, boiling them in water mixed with honey or malt syrup can add a richer sweetness and a golden color. Brushing the bagels with melted cream cheese instead of butter before toasting offers a creamy twist to this classic treat.
Allergies
Your Cinnamon Sugar Bagel contains common allergens such as wheat, present in the bread flour, and eggs from the egg white used in the recipe. The unsalted butter also introduces dairy, which may cause issues for those with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. Always check ingredient labels and consult with your healthcare provider if you have specific food allergies before consuming this bagel.
Why this recipe?
Einstein Bros. Bagels' Cinnamon Sugar Bagel features a perfect balance of sweet cinnamon and crunchy sugar, creating a delightful texture and flavor that appeals to a wide range of customers. The bagel's soft interior and golden, sugary crust make it a satisfying treat for breakfast or a snack. You can recreate this popular menu item at home to enjoy fresh, customizable sweetness without leaving your kitchen. Making a copycat version also allows control over ingredients, ensuring a healthier or tailored taste experience.