The Best Pumpkin Sourdough Bagels with Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese

The crisp autumn air, the spicy aroma of pumpkin, and the comforting taste of freshly baked bread make these pumpkin sourdough bagels with pumpkin spice cream cheese the perfect fall treat. This recipe combines the tangy flavor of sourdough with the warmth of pumpkin and spices, creating a cozy breakfast or snack that everyone will love. Not only are these bagels delicious, but they also feature a healthier twist, thanks to the use of sourdough starter and natural sweeteners. Top them with homemade pumpkin spice cream cheese for an extra indulgent touch!

Why Pumpkin Sourdough Bagels Are a Must-Try

Pumpkin sourdough bagels are the perfect fall bake, combining the best of both worlds—flavorful pumpkin and the chewy, slightly tangy texture of sourdough. These bagels are not only a great way to start your day but also make for a fantastic snack. The long fermentation of the sourdough starter makes them easier to digest and adds a depth of flavor that makes them far superior to store-bought bagels. With the addition of pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice, these bagels are full of the cozy, comforting flavors we crave during the fall season.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Sourdough Bagels with Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to create these perfect pumpkin sourdough bagels:

• Sourdough Starter: Adds tangy flavor and enhances digestibility.
• Pumpkin Puree: Provides a subtle sweetness and moisture.
• Honey: Sweetens the bagels naturally and complements the pumpkin flavor.
• Flour: Use unbleached bread flour for a sturdy dough.
• Pumpkin Spice: Adds a cozy, warm spice blend that makes these bagels perfect for fall.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Baking Soda & Sugar: Used for boiling the bagels to achieve a perfect bagel crust.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Flour: If you don’t have bread flour, you can use unbleached all-purpose flour instead.
• Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute for honey.
• Pumpkin Spice: If you don’t have pumpkin spice, a mix of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves will work well.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pumpkin Sourdough Bagels with Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese

1. In a stand mixing bowl, combine your sourdough starter, pumpkin puree, water, and honey. Whisk together until smooth.
2. Gradually add the bread flour, pumpkin spice, and salt. Mix with a dough hook in the stand mixer until the dough begins to come away from the sides of the bowl. If mixing by hand, be prepared to put in some elbow grease!
3. Cover the dough and let it rest for 1 hour. After resting, shape the dough into a ball and cover it again. Allow it to sit for 8–12 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Once the dough has doubled, place it on a clean surface and divide it into 8 equal portions.
5. To shape the bagels, flatten each dough ball into a rectangle and fold the edges towards the center. Roll each piece into a ball and place them on parchment paper.
6. Let the bagels rest for 15 minutes, then poke a hole in the center of each and gently stretch them to create the classic bagel shape.
7. Preheat the oven to 425°F and bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1 tablespoon of baking soda.
8. Gently place 2–3 bagels into the boiling water. Boil for 1 minute, flip, and boil for another minute.
9. Transfer the boiled bagels onto a baking sheet and bake for 22 minutes or until golden brown.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Sourdough Bagels with Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese

• Sourdough Starter: Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before starting the recipe for best results.
• Resting Time: Don’t rush the resting time—allow the dough to ferment properly to achieve the best flavor and texture.
• Boiling: Boiling the bagels in water with baking soda and sugar gives them the chewy, slightly crispy exterior that makes a bagel so distinct.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese

To complete your pumpkin sourdough bagels, whip up some homemade pumpkin spice cream cheese:

1. Combine softened cream cheese, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and pumpkin spice in a bowl.
2. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend the ingredients until smooth and fluffy.
3. Refrigerate until ready to use, allowing the flavors to meld together.

This sweet and spiced cream cheese complements the tangy sourdough bagels perfectly and adds an indulgent touch to your breakfast or snack.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

While these pumpkin sourdough bagels with pumpkin spice cream cheese are amazing on their own, there are a few ways to mix things up:

• Savory Toppings: Spread with cream cheese and add a slice of smoked salmon, avocado, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
• Spicy Version: For a bit of heat, add cayenne pepper to the cream cheese for a spicy twist.
• Storage: Store the bagels in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, and keep the pumpkin spice cream cheese in the fridge for up to a week.

Fall-Inspired Flavor Profile

These pumpkin sourdough bagels with pumpkin spice cream cheese truly capture the essence of fall. The use of pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice gives them a rich, aromatic flavor that’s perfect for the season. The sourdough starter adds complexity, while the pumpkin spice cream cheese gives the bagels a decadent, seasonal touch.

Enjoy these bagels as a breakfast, afternoon snack, or even as part of your Thanksgiving spread. Whether you’re cozying up with a warm cup of coffee or sharing them with family, these pumpkin sourdough bagels with pumpkin spice cream cheese are sure to be a favorite.

Conclusion

These pumpkin sourdough bagels with pumpkin spice cream cheese offer the perfect combination of tangy sourdough flavor and the rich, warm essence of fall. With their slightly sweet and spicy profile, they make for a comforting breakfast, snack, or even a seasonal treat for your next gathering. Whether you are a sourdough enthusiast or just love everything pumpkin, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your fall baking rotation. The addition of homemade pumpkin spice cream cheese takes these bagels to the next level, adding an indulgent touch that perfectly complements their hearty texture.

Perfect for sharing with friends and family, these bagels are also a healthier alternative to store-bought options, thanks to the sourdough starter and natural ingredients. Once you try them, you’ll be hooked on the warm, cozy flavors of fall!

FAQ About Pumpkin Sourdough Bagels with Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese

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