Banana Bagels Recipe

There is something truly magical about the combination of sweet bananas and the chewy, satisfying texture of freshly baked bread, which makes these Banana Bagels a must-try treat. Perfectly soft inside with just a subtle hint of cinnamon and a delightful sesame crunch on the outside, these bagels bring a playful twist to your usual breakfast routine. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, these bagels are simple to make, delightfully wholesome, and bursting with natural banana goodness that will brighten up any morning or snack time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these straightforward yet essential ingredients is the first step toward baking your own irresistible Banana Bagels. Each element plays a crucial role: bananas provide moisture and natural sweetness, self-rising flour gives the dough its lift and structure, and cinnamon adds a warm, comforting touch.

• Bananas (1 cup, about 2 large): Ripe bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture, forming the base of the bagel dough.
• Self-Rising Flour (2 cups): This flour contains baking powder and salt, which helps your bagels rise without extra leavening agents.
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm spice note that complements the fruity flavor.
• Chopped Walnuts (1/4 cup): These bring a delightful crunch and a touch of nuttiness to every bite.
• Avocado Oil (2-3 teaspoons): Used for kneading and greasing, it keeps the dough from sticking and adds subtle richness.
• Sesame Seeds (2 teaspoons): These provide a nutty crust topping that’s eye-catching and tasty.

How to Make Banana Bagels

Step 1: Mash the Bananas

Begin by mashing your ripe bananas until smooth. Measuring out exactly 1 cup ensures your dough has the perfect balance of moisture and flavor. This step is key because the banana’s natural sweetness replaces the need for any added sugar, making these bagels both tasty and wholesome.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, mix the self-rising flour and cinnamon together. This combination gives your bagels that lovely rise and a hint of spice that marries beautifully with the banana’s sweetness.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Stir the dry ingredients into the mashed banana using a rubber spatula until lumps start to form. Then, oil your hands with avocado oil and knead the mixture until it comes together as a soft dough ball. If the dough feels too dry, add a bit of water; if too sticky, sprinkle in some flour. The texture here is important for shaping the perfect bagels later.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rest

After kneading, let the dough rest at room temperature for about 5 minutes. This short rest helps relax the gluten a bit and makes it easier to shape your bagels smoothly.

Step 5: Prepare for Boiling and Baking

While the dough rests, fill a large saucepan with water, cover, and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400 °F (200 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. These steps set the stage for the traditional bagel boil and bake process.

Step 6: Shape the Bagels

Grease your hands again and divide the dough into five equal portions. Roll each into a ball and press your thumb through the center to create the classic bagel hole. Place each shaped bagel on parchment paper, keeping them well spaced to avoid sticking during boiling.

Step 7: Boil the Bagels

Lower your heat to maintain a gentle boil and carefully dip one or two bagels at a time into the water. Once they float to the surface, usually after about 45 seconds, remove them using a wide slotted spatula. This boiling step is essential for developing the bagel’s distinctive chewy texture and glossy crust.

Step 8: Drain and Repeat

Set the boiled bagels on a wire rack to release excess moisture. Continue boiling all the remaining bagels in batches. Keeping them separated and dry ensures they bake evenly and develop a beautiful, firm crust.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden

Once all bagels have been boiled, transfer them to the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the tops for a lovely nutty crunch. Bake on the rack positioned just above the center of the oven for 16 to 20 minutes or until golden brown and invitingly fragrant.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the bagels to cool on a wire rack before indulging. These Banana Bagels are delicious enjoyed lukewarm straight from the oven or cold the next day. Either way, their moist crumb and subtle sweetness will keep you reaching for more.

How to Serve Banana Bagels

Garnishes

Because these bagels have a lovely natural sweetness, simple garnishes like a smear of cream cheese, a drizzle of honey, or a layer of nut butter complement their flavor without overpowering it. Adding fresh banana slices or a sprinkle of extra chopped walnuts on top elevates the experience.

Side Dishes

Banana Bagels make a wonderful companion to a hot cup of coffee or tea. Serve them alongside a bowl of fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a breakfast or brunch that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Transform these bagels into mini sandwiches by layering cream cheese, smoked salmon, and arugula. Or toast them lightly and top with ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a dessert-inspired treat. The chewy texture and mild banana flavor make these bagels a canvas for creativity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Banana Bagels, they store beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their chewy texture.

Freezing

You can freeze these bagels for up to 3 months. It’s best to slice them beforehand so you can toast or reheat only what you need. Wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

For the best texture, thaw frozen bagels at room temperature and then toast or warm them in a preheated oven at 350 °F for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bagels rubbery rather than restoring their original perfect chew.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?

While self-rising flour makes this recipe quick and easy, you can substitute regular all-purpose flour if you add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the mix. This will help the bagels rise properly.

Are the walnuts necessary in the recipe?

Walnuts add a nice crunch and extra flavor, but if you have allergies or don’t like nuts, feel free to leave them out or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

Can these bagels be made gluten-free?

Gluten-free self-rising flour blends might work, though texture may vary slightly. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum for structure, and expect a slightly softer bagel.

How ripe should the bananas be?

The riper the better! Overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots will be the sweetest and easiest to mash, giving your Banana Bagels their best flavor.

What’s the purpose of boiling the bagels before baking?

Boiling bagels cooks the outer layer slightly, which gives them their classic chewy crust instead of a soft bread-like texture. It’s an essential step for authentic bagel texture and taste.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a fun and delicious way to enjoy bananas beyond the usual smoothie or toast toppings, these Banana Bagels offer a wonderfully unique option that’s both satisfying and easy to make. With their golden crust, soft centers, and inviting flavors, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give them a try, and I promise your mornings will never be the same!

Print