Rainbow bagels are a fun and colorful twist on the classic bagel! Their bright swirls make breakfast feel like a party, and they taste delightful too!
I love how these bagels bring a smile to everyone’s face. They’re perfect with cream cheese or just plain butter. Seriously, who can resist such a treat? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread flour: This is crucial for creating a chewy texture in bagels. If you don’t have bread flour, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour, though the texture will be a bit softer.
Instant yeast: Instant yeast is super easy to use! If you only have active dry yeast, use the same amount, but remember to activate it first in warm water for about 5 minutes before mixing it in.
Warm water: Aim for the right temperature (about 110°F / 43°C) to help activate the yeast. If you don’t have a thermometer, just feel the warmth—it should feel warm but not hot to the touch.
Food coloring: Gel food coloring gives vibrant colors, but you can also use liquid food coloring if that’s what you have. Just remember, it might require a bit more to achieve the same bold hues.
Malt syrup: If you don’t have malt syrup, honey works just as well! It’s great for adding a touch of sweetness to the boiling water.
How Do I Knead Dough Properly?
Kneading dough is essential for bagels to develop that wonderful chewy texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Flour your surface lightly to prevent sticking, but don’t overdo it.
- Press the dough down with the heels of your hands and then fold it over on itself.
- Rotate the dough a quarter turn and repeat the pressing and folding for 8 to 10 minutes.
You’ll know you’re done when the dough is smooth and elastic. This step is key, so don’t rush it!
How to Make Rainbow Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups bread flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For Coloring:
- Food coloring gel or paste (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple)
For Boiling:
- 1 tablespoon honey or malt syrup
Optional Topping:
- Multicolored sprinkles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun recipe will take about 1 hour of active preparation time, plus 30-40 minutes for the dough to rise, and 20-25 minutes for baking. Plan for a total of about 2 hours before you can enjoy your colorful creations!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Make sure everything is mixed well. Then, add the warm water and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Stir the mixture with a spoon until it forms a rough dough.
2. Kneading the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step is really important for that perfect bagel texture!
3. Coloring the Dough:
Now, divide the kneaded dough into six equal portions. Take each portion and knead in a different color of food coloring until the color is vibrant and mixed in thoroughly. Make sure your hands are protected, or wear gloves to avoid staining!
4. Resting the Dough:
Allow the colored dough pieces to rest on the counter for about 10 minutes. This relaxing time helps the gluten to loosen.
5. Shaping the Bagels:
Roll each colored dough piece into long ropes that are relatively equal in length. Gently twist all six ropes together to create a multicolored rope. Connect the ends together to form a bagel shape.
6. Letting the Bagels Rise:
Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a towel and let them rise for about 30-40 minutes until they are puffy.
7. Preparing to Bake:
While the bagels are rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the honey or malt syrup to the boiling water.
8. Boiling the Bagels:
Once the water is boiling, carefully boil each bagel for about 1 minute on each side. Remove them using a slotted spoon and place them back on the baking sheet.
9. Adding Toppings:
If you want extra fun, sprinkle multicolored sprinkles on the bagels while they are still wet from boiling. This will help the sprinkles stick!
10. Baking the Bagels:
Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
11. Cooling Down:
Once baked, transfer the bagels to a wire rack to cool before serving. Enjoy your beautiful and vibrant Rainbow Bagels!
Can I Use Different Types of Flour?
While bread flour is preferred for its high protein content, you can use all-purpose flour if that’s what you have on hand. Just know that the bagels may be a bit softer in texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Bagels?
To store leftover bagels, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy them later, simply thaw and toast!
Can I Make These Bagels Without Food Coloring?
Absolutely! If you prefer a more traditional look, you can omit the food coloring altogether. You’ll have delicious plain bagels instead!
What Can I Use Instead of Honey or Malt Syrup for Boiling?
If you don’t have honey or malt syrup, you can substitute with sugar or agave syrup. They’ll add a touch of sweetness to the boiling water and will still give you great bagels!
