Pumpkin Spice Bagels

Embrace the flavors of fall with these delightful pumpkin spice bagels! Whether you're a fan of the season or just love the warm, cozy taste of pumpkin and spices, these bagels are the perfect treat. Soft and chewy with a hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, they bring the essence of autumn straight to your breakfast table. Pair them with a creamy, spiced pumpkin cream cheese for a truly indulgent experience. These bagels are easy to make, and each bite will remind you of everything you love about the season—comfort, warmth, and delicious aromas. Perfect for a crisp morning or a special weekend brunch, this recipe is sure to become a fall favorite.

Ingredients:

• 4 1/4 - 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon instant yeast

• 1 cup warm water (baby bath temperature)

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar, plus 1/4 cup brown sugar, separated

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

• 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice seasoning

Directions:

1. In your mixer, add water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Mix and let stand for 5 minutes until yeast begins to bloom.

2. Add pumpkin, salt, and pumpkin spice seasoning.

3. If you're using a KitchenAid mixer, use your paddle attachment and add 2 cups of flour. Mix well.

4. Switch to your dough hook and add 1 cup of flour at a time, for a total of two more cups.

5. Add the final 1/4 to 1/2 cup of flour as needed. You want the dough to pull away from the bowl. If you touch it, it shouldn't be sticky. Bagel dough should be firm, not sticky.

6. Once the dough comes together, knead for 5-7 minutes.

7. Form into a smooth ball, place in a bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours until the dough has doubled in size.

8. Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.

9. Roll each piece into a ball and use your thumb to punch a hole in the middle to shape the bagel. Place the shaped bagels on a lined baking sheet.

10. Cover your bagels and let them rest while you prepare the next step.

11. Fill a large pot with at least 4 cups of water.

12. Add the remaining 1/4 cup of brown sugar and stir well.

13. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

14. Once the water is boiling vigorously, add 2-4 bagels, depending on your pot size. Boil for 30-40 seconds on each side.

15. After boiling, return the bagels, smooth side up, to the baking sheet.

16. Preheat your oven to 425°F.

17. Bake for 20 minutes.

18. Enjoy!