Spiced Pumpkin Cottage Bagels

Name: Spiced Pumpkin Cottage Bagels
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 bagels
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup whole wheat flour; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1 cup canned pumpkin puree; 1/2 cup cottage cheese; 1/2 cup warm water

Highlighted under: Seasonal Kitchen Recipes

I love baking, and there's something magical about the aroma of spiced pumpkin filling the kitchen. These spiced pumpkin cottage bagels have become a fall favorite in my home. The harmony of warm spices, sweet pumpkin, and the unique addition of cottage cheese gives them a delightful texture that’s unlike any other bagel. They not only look inviting with their golden hue but also taste like a cozy hug on chilly mornings. Trust me, once you try these, you'll want to make them every season.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-25T20:21:28.056Z

Making these spiced pumpkin cottage bagels is a true labor of love that I enjoy sharing with friends and family. I experimented with different ratios of pumpkin and cottage cheese to achieve the perfect moistness and flavor balance. The spiced pumpkin flavor infuses the dough beautifully, while the cottage cheese contributes to a rich and fluffy texture. I found that adding a pinch of nutmeg elevates the taste, making it truly irresistible.

When I first baked these bagels, I was amazed at how the spices melded so well with the pumpkin. To ensure a perfect bake, I always let the dough rest for a bit after mixing – it really helps with the rise! Enjoying these warm from the oven with a smear of cream cheese is an experience I highly recommend!

Why You'll Love These Bagels
The perfect blend of pumpkin and warm spices for the season
Unique texture from the cottage cheese, making them fluffy and moist
Delicious toasted or fresh, ideal for breakfast or a snack

Texture and Flavor Profile

The inclusion of cottage cheese in these Spiced Pumpkin Cottage Bagels is what sets them apart. It not only adds moisture but also a rich creaminess that balances the spiced pumpkin flavor beautifully. During baking, the cottage cheese contributes to a light and airy texture, resulting in bagels that are fluffy rather than dense. It's essential to use fresh cottage cheese for the best results—check the label for a creamy consistency without excess water for optimal texture.

The warm spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves—bring warmth and depth to each bagel. The aromatic blend invokes cozy autumn feelings, making them perfect for chilly mornings. Be mindful not to overdo the spices; their subtle integration complements the pumpkin without overpowering it. A good way to test your spice balance is by making a small test batch; this allows you to adjust according to your personal preference.

Boiling Tips for Perfect Bagels

The boiling process is crucial for achieving that classic bagel texture; it creates a chewy exterior while keeping the inside soft. When boiling, make sure the water is at a rolling boil—this will ensure the bagels puff up properly. Boil each bagel for 1 minute on each side, and try not to crowd the pot; this helps maintain water temperature. If your bagels seem too thick, you can gently press them to flatten a little before boiling.

If you're experimenting with flavors, consider adding honey or baking soda to the boiling water to enhance the crust. Honey will impart a slight sweetness, while baking soda creates a shinier, golden crust. At this point, don't hesitate to sprinkle toppings like sesame seeds or everything seasoning before baking; they add flavor and a pleasing crunch.

Ingredients

For the Bagels

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1/2 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup warm water

Note: You can add seeds on top for an extra crunch!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and spices. In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, cottage cheese, and warm water. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients until a dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.

Shape the Bagels

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center to shape into a bagel. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Boil and Bake

Bring a pot of water to a boil. Boil each bagel for 1 minute on each side, then transfer back to the baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the bagels for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the bagels cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve warm with cream cheese or your favorite spread.

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding sunflower seeds or poppy seeds on top before baking. Experiment with different spices to suit your taste!

Storage and Freezing

Once your Spiced Pumpkin Cottage Bagels have cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To preserve their freshness longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable bag before freezing. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to have a cozy breakfast ready whenever you need it.

To reheat frozen bagels, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you're in a hurry, you can toast them directly from the freezer. For an ideal warm bagel experience, slice them before toasting to ensure even heating.

Serving Suggestions

These bagels shine when served warm with a spread of cream cheese, which complements the spiced pumpkin flavor beautifully. You might also consider flavored cream cheeses, like maple or apple cinnamon, to enhance the autumn experience. Another option is to serve them with flavored butters or homemade preserves for a sweet touch.

For a complete breakfast, pair these bagels with a side of fresh fruit or a spiced chai latte. You can even turn them into a savory sandwich by adding cream cheese, smoked salmon, and greens for a delightful brunch option. The versatility of these bagels allows them to transition effortlessly from breakfast to snack time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, but make sure it's well cooked and pureed for the best results.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make these bagels gluten-free?

You can try substituting the flour with a gluten-free blend, but the texture may vary.

→ What toppings work best with these bagels?

Cream cheese, butter, or even almond butter work wonderfully to complement the pumpkin flavor.