Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Bagels: 8 Cozy Morning Delights

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Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Bagels are the ultimate fall breakfast treat — soft, chewy, and filled with warm pumpkin spice flavor. With each golden bagel featuring a swirl of sweet, tangy cream cheese, you’ll find the perfect balance of cozy comfort and creamy indulgence. These bagels are ideal for brunch, meal prep, or festive mornings, making them a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their breakfast game.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these delightful bagels. First, they combine the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices, making them perfect for the chilly fall season. Second, they are incredibly easy to make, even for novice bakers. Moreover, the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Blend adds a rich creaminess that elevates the bagels to another level. Additionally, they are a fantastic way to impress guests at brunch, and you can easily customize them with your favorite toppings. Lastly, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl

Gather these items:

2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
1½ tablespoons brown sugar
1¼ cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
½ cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
3¾ cups bread flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Water (enough to fill a large pot)
1 tablespoon brown sugar

How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Step-by-Step

Step 1: Combine warm water, brown sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Stir in pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Add flour gradually and knead until smooth and elastic (8–10 minutes by hand or 6 minutes with a mixer). Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
Step 3: Mix softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Chill until ready to use.
Step 4: Punch down dough and divide into 8 portions. Roll each into a rectangle, spread with cream cheese, roll tightly, and shape into rings, sealing ends well.
Step 5: Bring a large pot of water and brown sugar to a gentle boil. Boil each bagel for 1 minute per side, then transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake at 425°F (218°C) for 18–22 minutes until golden. Cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl

Keep these in mind:

These bagels are great for brunch, meal prep, or festive mornings.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
For added flavor, consider using Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting as a spread.
Ensure your water temperature is just right for the yeast to activate properly.

Best Ways to Serve Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl

These bagels shine on their own, but you can elevate them further by serving with:

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dip Recipe for a delightful spread.
Toasted with a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar for extra sweetness.
Pairing with a warm cup of coffee or tea to complement the flavors.

How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl

To keep your bagels fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or oven until warmed through, allowing you to enjoy this easy pumpkin cream cheese dessert anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl

What’s the secret to perfect Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl?

The secret lies in ensuring that your yeast is fresh and active. This will give your bagels the perfect rise and texture. Also, don’t skip the boiling step, as it creates that chewy crust that bagels are known for.

Can I make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate it for a day. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping and boiling. This makes it convenient for busy mornings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl?

Be careful not to over-knead the dough, as this can make the bagels tough. Also, make sure the cream cheese filling is evenly spread to achieve that beautiful swirl effect.

Variations of Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl You Can Try

There are many ways to customize your bagels:

Substituting pumpkin puree with sweet potato for a different flavor.
Making a Pumpkin Cheesecake Swirl by adding a bit of sugar and spices to the cream cheese filling.
Creating a Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pastry by using the dough to wrap around fruit fillings.
Incorporating nuts or chocolate chips into the dough for added texture.

For more information on the health benefits of pumpkin, check out this Healthline article.

For a delicious alternative, consider trying Creamy Pumpkin Soup to warm up your fall evenings.

Lastly, if you’re interested in more pumpkin recipes, visit this page for inspiration.