Introduction

These Maple French Toast Bagels bring together the comforting flavors of French toast with the chewy delight of a homemade bagel. Filled with warm cinnamon chips and kissed by maple flavoring, they make a perfect breakfast treat or snack. Baking these from scratch is easier than you think and totally worth the effort.

A close-up image shows a pile of golden-brown round bagels with a shiny, slightly crispy surface and small darker spots for texture. The bagels have a rough, irregular shape and a hole in the center of each. In the background, a white plate with slices of a light-colored layered cake is partially visible on a white marbled surface. A slice of the cake has a smooth, creamy texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine warm water, dry active yeast, and 1 tbsp brown sugar. Stir and set aside until foamy and bubbly.

Step 2: In a large bowl or stand mixer bowl, mix together 4 1/2 cups bread flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon chips.

Step 3: Add the yeast mixture and maple flavoring to the dry ingredients. If the yeast is not frothy, discard and start over to ensure proper activation.

Step 4: Using a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead the dough for 10 minutes, adding up to 1/2 cup more flour as needed until soft and workable. If kneading by hand, stir until shaggy dough forms, then knead on a clean surface for 10 minutes, adding extra flour as needed.

Step 5: Let the dough rest for 5 minutes after kneading.

Step 6: Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces using a sharp knife or bench scraper.

Step 7: Shape each piece into a tight ball. Press your thumb into the center and rotate to form a bagel shape. Place on a parchment or silicone-lined baking sheet.

Step 8: Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and let the bagels rise for 20 minutes.

Step 9: Preheat oven to 425°F once the bagels have risen.

Step 10: Bring about 4 inches of water to a rolling boil in a large pot.

Step 11: Meanwhile, whisk together the egg, milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla to make the egg wash. Set aside.

Step 12: Boil the bagels in batches for 1 minute per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and return to the baking sheet.

Step 13: Brush each boiled bagel generously with the egg wash.

Step 14: Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 15: Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality cinnamon chips, like Orson Gygi, as some brands (such as Hershey’s) may melt and discolor the dough.

If you don’t have maple flavoring, substitute with pure maple syrup for a natural touch.

For a richer dough, try adding a tablespoon of melted butter during kneading.

Experiment by adding chopped nuts or dried fruit along with the cinnamon chips for extra texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of cinnamon chips?

Yes, chocolate chips can be used as a pleasant variation, but keep in mind they will melt differently and alter the flavor profile away from a French toast taste.

Why didn’t my yeast get bubbly and foamy?

Yeast may fail to activate if the water is too hot or too cold, or if the yeast is expired. Ensure water temperature is between 105°F and 113°F, and use fresh dry active yeast for best results.