Sweet and Savory: Cranberry Orange Bagels Recipe

Are you tired of the same old plain bagels every morning? Look no further than our Cranberry Orange Bagels recipe! These bagels are perfect for those who want to add a little sweetness to their breakfast routine. The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange creates a flavor explosion in every bite.

Not only are these bagels delicious, but they are also a healthier alternative to traditional bagels. We use whole wheat flour in our recipe, which provides more fiber and nutrients than enriched flour. Plus, with the addition of dried cranberries, you’ll get a boost of antioxidants to start your day off right.

Don’t be intimidated by the idea of making bagels at home. This recipe is simple and straightforward, even for those who are new to baking. So, get ready to impress your family and friends with these homemade Cranberry Orange Bagels that are sure to become a new breakfast favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Are you a fan of bagels? If so, you’re in for a treat with this recipe for cranberry orange bagels! Not only does it offer a unique twist on a classic breakfast food, but it also incorporates the delicious flavors of cranberry and orange.

One of the reasons you’ll love this recipe is the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. The dried cranberries and orange zest add a burst of flavor in every bite that will leave you wanting more. Plus, the addition of cinnamon and ground cloves gives these bagels a warm, comforting taste that is perfect for any time of day.

Another reason to try this recipe is that it’s so versatile. You can enjoy these cranberry orange bagels on their own, or use them to make delicious bagel sandwiches. The possibilities are endless! They also make a great addition to any brunch or breakfast spread, and are sure to impress your guests.

If you’re health-conscious, you’ll be happy to know that this recipe uses whole wheat flour, which is a great source of fiber and nutrients. Plus, the dried cranberries add a touch of sweetness without the need for excessive amounts of sugar.

Overall, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to switch up their breakfast routine or impress their guests with a unique twist on a classic. Trust me, you won’t regret giving these cranberry orange bagels a try!

Ingredient List

Ingredients

Here is what you need to make these delicious Cranberry Orange Bagels:

• Bread flour: 2 cups
• Whole wheat flour: 1 cup
• Active dry yeast: 1 tablespoon
• Granulated sugar: 1 tablespoon
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Warm water: 1 1/2 cups
• Dried cranberries: 1/2 cup
• Orange zest: 2 teaspoons
• Ground cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
• Ground cloves: 1/4 teaspoon

Note that you can substitute the dried cranberries with raisins or other dried fruit of your choice, and adjust the amount of sugar to your taste. Also, make sure to use warm (not hot) water to activate the yeast properly.

The Recipe How-To

Preparation

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of bread flour, 1 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour, 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, 1 tablespoon of orange zest, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves, 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast.

2. Stir the dry ingredients together with a whisk or fork until evenly combined.

3. Add 1 cup of warm water to the dry mixture and stir until it comes together to form a sticky dough.

4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

5. Place the dough into a large oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Shaping and Boiling

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.

2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1/3 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of baking soda.

3. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball.

4. Poke a hole in the center of each ball and stretch it to form a ring shape. Make the hole larger than you want it to be as it will shrink when boiled and baked.

5. Boil the bagels in the sugar water mixture for 2 minutes on each side.

6. Remove the bagels from the water using a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Baking

1. Brush the boiled bagels with 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water and sprinkle with additional dried cranberries and orange zest if desired.

2. Bake the bagels for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown.

3. Remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.

Optional: Using a Bread Machine

1. Add the ingredients in the order recommended by the bread machine manufacturer.

2. Select the dough setting and let the machine do the work.

3. Once the dough is done, follow the instructions above starting from the Shaping and Boiling step.

Enjoy your homemade Cranberry Orange Bagels!

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about making bagels is the endless possibilities for substitutions and variations. Here are a few ideas to customize your cranberry orange bagels recipe:

– Swap out the dried cranberries for raisins, chopped nuts or other dried fruit.

– Use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour for a softer, chewier bagel.

– Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of ground cloves to the dough for a warm, spicy flavor.

– For a whole wheat version, use half whole wheat flour and half bread flour.

– Top the bagels with a mixture of brown sugar and orange zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

– Make a cream cheese spread by mixing softened cream cheese with orange zest and dried cranberries for a perfect pairing with the bagels.

– Cut the bagels in half and make cranberry orange bagel sandwiches with sliced turkey or cream cheese and smoked salmon.

– For a dessert twist, toast the bagels and serve with whipped cream and fresh berries.

Experiment with these substitutions and variations to find your perfect cranberry orange bagel recipe.

Serving and Pairing

These cranberry orange bagels are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a midday snack. They are great on their own, but even better when topped with cream cheese and a sprinkle of orange zest. For a sweeter option, try spreading a layer of brown sugar mixed with a bit of water on top of the bagel before adding the cream cheese. The combination of the sweet brown sugar and tangy cream cheese pairs perfectly with the tartness of the cranberries and orange zest.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try making bagel sandwiches with these cranberry orange bagels. Fill them with your favorite breakfast ingredients like bacon, egg, and cheese, or go for a sweet option with cream cheese, more cranberries, and a drizzle of honey. The possibilities are endless!

For a complete breakfast spread, serve these bagels with fresh fruit, yogurt, and a hot cup of coffee or tea. They also make a great addition to a brunch table alongside other baked goods like muffins and scones.

These cranberry orange bagels are versatile enough to be enjoyed any time of day. They make a great snack on their own, or pair well with soup or a salad for a light lunch. With their unique flavor profile, they are sure to impress guests at any gathering.

Overall, these bagels are a delicious twist on the classic New York-style bagel. They are perfect for those who love a bit of sweetness in their breakfast, and they are sure to become a new favorite in your household.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

These cranberry orange bagels can be conveniently made ahead of time to fit your busy schedule. After boiling and cooling, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months, making them a great meal prep option.

When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply take the bagels out of the fridge or freezer and let them come to room temperature. If they are frozen, defrost them in the microwave for a minute or two or let them thaw overnight in the fridge.

To reheat, slice the bagel in half and toast it in the oven or toaster until crispy and golden brown. You can also microwave them for 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overdo it as they can become rubbery.

These bagels are so versatile that they can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Spread some cream cheese on top or make a delicious bagel sandwich with your favorite fillings. The combination of tangy cranberries and zesty orange zest makes them a perfect addition to your breakfast or brunch menu.

Overall, these cranberry orange bagels are a great make-ahead option that can be stored and reheated easily. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or just someone who loves to meal prep, these bagels are a delicious and convenient choice.

Tips for Perfect Results

Here are some tips that will help you achieve perfect results with your cranberry orange bagels recipe:

1. Use Bread Flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content than all-purpose flour, which helps the bagels hold their shape and gives them a chewy texture. It’s an essential ingredient for making bagels, so make sure to use it.

2. Knead the Dough: Kneading the dough for at least 10 minutes will help develop the gluten in the dough, which is what gives bagels their signature chewy texture. It’s best to use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, but you can also knead the dough by hand if you prefer.

3. Don’t Skimp on the Orange Zest: Orange zest is what gives these bagels their delicious orange flavor. Make sure to use fresh, grated orange zest for the best results. You can also add a little extra if you want a stronger orange flavor.

4. Use Dried Cranberries: Dried cranberries work best in this recipe because they won’t release too much moisture into the dough. If you use fresh or frozen cranberries, the dough will be too wet and the bagels won’t hold their shape.

5. Boil the Bagels: Boiling the bagels before baking them is what gives them their shiny, chewy crust. Make sure to boil them for 30 seconds on each side before transferring them to the oven.

6. Use Baking Soda in the Boiling Water: Adding a tablespoon of baking soda to the boiling water will help give the bagels their signature crust and color.

7. Let the Dough Rest: After you shape the bagels, let them rest for 10-15 minutes before boiling them. This will give the gluten in the dough time to relax, which will make them easier to shape and boil.

8. Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings for your bagels, such as cinnamon sugar or sesame seeds. You can also sprinkle some extra dried cranberries on top for a pop of color and flavor.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to make perfect cranberry orange bagels every time. Enjoy!

FAQ

Now that you have all the information you need to make these delicious cranberry orange bagels, let’s address some frequently asked questions about this recipe. From ingredient swaps to troubleshooting, these FAQs will help you tackle any issues that may arise while making your perfect batch of bagels. So, let’s get started!

Is Thomas making cranberry bagels?

Indulge in the delectable and subtle flavor of cranberry in your go-to morning bagel. Thomas’ Cranberry Bagels, which are only available for a limited time, are delightfully chewy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and crafted with authentic cranberries for an irresistible taste that will leave you wanting more.

What is the secret to making bagels?

As a chef, I’ve learned that the key to making the perfect bagel is all in the details. One of the most important factors is moisture – a wetter dough will result in a crispier bagel. In addition, the temperature of the water used is crucial. The colder the water, the better the bagel. Another tip is to let the dry active yeast chill before using it. This will help to activate the yeast properly and give your bagels a delicious flavor.

When it comes to flour, it’s important to embrace the gluten. This means using a high protein flour, which will help to give your bagels that signature chewy texture. When mixing the dough, it’s best to take it slow and steady. Low and slow mixing will help to develop the gluten and create a better overall texture.

The rise of the dough is also an important step. Luckily, your kitchen climate should be just fine for this. Make sure to let the dough rise properly before shaping and boiling the bagels. Once the bagels have been boiled and shaped, it’s time to add some flavor. This can be done by adding toppings or mix-ins after the proof.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to making the perfect bagels every time. Just remember to pay attention to the details and take your time – it’s worth it in the end.

How much baking soda do you put in a bagel bath?

Let’s start by getting a large pot or Dutch oven ready for our recipe. We’ll need to create a water bath, so we’ll fill the pot with 8 cups of water and add in 3 tablespoons of packed light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. We’ll then bring the mixture to a simmer over high heat. This will help to infuse our dish with flavor and ensure that it cooks evenly.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, if you want to impress your family and friends with a unique breakfast or brunch, try making these delicious Cranberry Orange Bagels. They are a perfect combination of tangy cranberries and zesty orange, which will delight your taste buds. With a little effort and patience, you can make these bagels at home, using simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.

By following the instructions and tips provided in this recipe article, you can make perfect Cranberry Orange Bagels that are chewy on the inside and crispy on the outside. You can also experiment with different variations and substitutions to suit your taste preferences.

Not only are these bagels delicious, but they are also a healthier alternative to store-bought bagels, as they are made with whole wheat flour and dried cranberries. And if you are watching your carb intake, you can use low-carb flour and sweeteners to make them even healthier.

So, why not give this Cranberry Orange Bagels recipe a try? You will love the smell of freshly baked bread in your kitchen, and the satisfaction of making something from scratch that your family and friends will enjoy. And who knows, you might even start a new tradition of making homemade bagels for special occasions or just for fun.

Thank you for reading, and happy baking!

[custom-related-posts title=”Recommended Recipes Just For You” none_text=”None found” order_by=”date” order=”ASC”]