What makes bagels different from doughnuts in terms of taste and preparation?

Though bagels and doughnuts may share a similar ring shape, they are different in taste and preparation. Bagels are known for their savory, chewy texture, often served with spreads, meats, or cheeses. Doughnuts are sweet, soft pastries typically fried and adorned with glazes, icing, or powdered sugar. The key distinction lies in their flavor profiles and how they're enjoyed.

What are some recommended cooking utensils for making bagels?

For making perfect bagels, a reliable stand mixer and a dependable oven are indispensable. A stand mixer ensures thorough mixing and kneading of dough, while a good oven, especially a convection oven, is essential for achieving the ideal bagel texture and crust.

6 Easy Bagel Recipes to Celebrate National Bagel Day

Are you a bagel aficionado? If so, you're in for a treat! National Bagel Day is the perfect occasion to savor these delicious, healthy bagels right in the comfort of your home. To make it even more special, we've gathered six easy bagel recipes for you to explore. Whether you're an experienced home baker or a novice, seize this opportunity to whip up your favorite bagels and impress your family and guests.

What Day Is National Bagel Day 2024?

National Bagel Day falls on January 15th every year, offering bagel enthusiasts a delightful reason to celebrate. While the day itself is cause for excitement, it's the bagel recipes that truly steal the spotlight.

6 Easy Bagel Recipes You Must Try This National Bagel Day

1. Classic Plain Bagels

Imagine biting into these classic plain bagels, perfectly baked, golden brown with a wonderfully chewy texture that gives way to a subtly sweet, yeasty flavor. They epitomize bagel perfection. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a newcomer, these bagels serve as a delightful canvas for your choice of spreads and toppings.

several classic plain bagels displayed on a wooden board

2. Everything Bagels

If you're in search of bold flavors, these everything bagels are the answer. Picture the delightful crunch of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and a hint of salt, all melding together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. These bagels are nothing short of irresistible.

round Warm bagels made with an everything bagel recipe on black and white striped cloth ready to eat

3. Whole Wheat Bagels

For those inclined toward a healthier option, these whole wheat bagels are an excellent choice. They encapsulate the nutty richness of whole wheat flour, offering a wholesome alternative without compromising taste or texture. Begin your day with these guilt-free yet delectable creations.

round whole grain wheat bagel in a basket with wheat spikes and oats ready to eat

4. Cinnamon Raisin Bagels

If you have a sweet tooth, these cinnamon raisin bagels are your calling. They combine the warmth of cinnamon with the natural sweetness of raisins, resulting in a heavenly combination. Toast them and slather with cream cheese for a divine breakfast or snack.

a cinnamon raisin water bagel on a white plate on a dark blue woven coaster

5. Cheddar Jalapeño Bagels

Take your taste buds on a flavorful journey with these cheddar jalapeño bagels. Packed with the sharpness of cheddar cheese and the mild heat of jalapeños, these bagels introduce a savory and slightly spicy twist to your mornings. They're a bold and unforgettable choice.

a delicious cheddar cheese and jalapeno bagel served on a rustic wooden tabletop

6. Blueberry Bagels

For a refreshing and fruity start to your day, these blueberry bagels are the way to go. Loaded with plump blueberries, they offer a delightful burst of juicy sweetness in every bite. Pair them with a dollop of cream cheese for a heavenly combination.

blueberry bagels in a wooden bowl with handwoven cloth. Additional bagels in soft focus in the background

For additional creative baking ideas and inspiration, explore this guide to home baking.

What Is the Difference Between Bagel and Doughnut?

Though bagels and doughnuts may share a similar ring shape, they stand worlds apart in terms of taste and preparation. Bagels are renowned for their savory, chewy texture, often served with spreads, meats, or cheeses. Doughnuts, conversely, are sweet, soft pastries typically fried and adorned with glazes, icing, or powdered sugar. The key distinction lies in their flavor profiles and how they're enjoyed. Learn more about different types of pastries and their unique characteristics here.

What Cooking Utensils Can Simplify My Bagel-Making Process?

Creating the perfect bagels requires the right tools to streamline the process. Here are two indispensable cooking utensils that can enhance your bagel-making adventure:

Stand Mixer

A reliable stand mixer, like the one from Ventray, is a game-changer when it comes to preparing bagel dough. Its potent motor and versatile attachments ensure thorough mixing and kneading, yielding consistently smooth and elastic dough.

Oven

A dependable oven is essential for achieving the ideal bagel texture and crust. While standard ovens suffice, convection ovens such as Ventray countertop convection ovens are particularly convenient for baking bagels. They distribute heat evenly, guaranteeing that your bagels bake uniformly and attain the coveted golden-brown exterior.

Embrace This Simple, Warm, and Healthy Way to Celebrate National Bagel Day

As National Bagel Day approaches, we hope you'll embrace the simple, warm, and healthy joy of crafting your own bagels from scratch. These easy recipes offer a delightful array of flavors to satisfy your cravings and impress your loved ones. Whether you opt for the classic plain bagel or the bold cheddar jalapeño variation, there's a bagel recipe here to cater to every palate.

So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and embark on a mouthwatering bagel-making journey right in your kitchen. The aroma of freshly baked bagels wafting through your home is an experience like no other. Make this National Bagel Day truly unforgettable by indulging in the goodness of homemade bagels. Your taste buds and your loved ones will undoubtedly thank you.

Happy National Bagel Day!