Bagels have always held a special place at our breakfast table but making them with einkorn flour takes this classic to a whole new level. Einkorn is one of the oldest grains known to us and it’s prized for its rich nutty flavor and gentle texture. When we use einkorn flour we get bagels that are not just delicious but also easier to digest than those made with modern wheat.
We love how these homemade einkorn bagels come out golden and chewy with that signature bagel crust. They’re perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a make-ahead breakfast. Whether you’re already a fan of ancient grains or just looking to try something new this recipe is a simple and rewarding way to bring a bit of wholesome tradition to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Einkorn Bagel Recipe
Our Einkorn Bagel Recipe stands out for its unique blend of taste, texture, and nutritional benefits. Let’s explore the irresistible reasons these bagels deserve a spot in your kitchen:
- Deliciously Nutty Flavor: Einkorn’s naturally rich, slightly sweet flavor makes every bite of these bagels special. The distinctive taste pairs well with both sweet and savory toppings.
- Superior Digestibility: Compared to modern wheat, einkorn flour is easier to digest. Many of us who struggle with regular wheat find Einkorn gentle on the stomach due to its simpler gluten structure.
- Golden Chewy Crust: Each bagel boasts a golden-brown crust with the classic bagel chew. We achieve that beautiful crust by boiling the bagels before baking—a must for authentic results.
- Nutrient Dense and Wholesome: Einkorn is packed with nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals. Our table below highlights how einkorn stacks up nutritionally.
| Nutrient | Einkorn Flour (per 100g) | Regular Wheat Flour (per 100g) |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 12.6g | 10.3g |
| Iron | 4.2mg | 1.2mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4mg | 0.1mg |
- Simple and Rewarding Process: The recipe includes clear, step-by-step instructions—no professional baking knowledge required. We guide you from mixing to shaping and boiling so you can confidently make bagels at home.
- Versatile Use: Enjoy these homemade einkorn bagels fresh from the oven, toasted, or topped with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or your favorite spread. They’re perfect for brunch, sandwiches, or make-ahead breakfasts.
- Preserving Ancient Grains: Baking with einkorn connects us to a time-honored baking tradition and supports diversity in our food choices.
As one baker said, “Once you taste the flavor and texture of homemade einkorn bagels, you’ll never look back.” Our recipe makes it easy for you to bring that experience to your own kitchen.
Ingredients
To make our Einkorn Bagel Recipe shine with classic texture and flavor, we gather carefully selected ingredients. Each one is listed in order of use for a smooth workflow. We focus on high-quality staples to bring out the best in einkorn flour’s unique richness.
Einkorn Bagel Ingredients
- 3 ¾ cups (450g) einkorn flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar (or honey)
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water (about 105–110°F)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ¼ teaspoons fine sea salt
- 4 cups water (for boiling)
- 2 tablespoons barley malt syrup or honey (for boiling)
- Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning, sea salt flakes
Ingredient Function Table
| Ingredient | Function |
|---|---|
| Einkorn flour | Provides a nutty, ancient grain foundation |
| Coconut sugar or honey | Feeds yeast, adds subtle sweetness |
| Active dry yeast | Leavens dough for rise and texture |
| Warm water | Activates yeast, hydrates flour |
| Olive oil | Adds tenderness and flavor to the crumb |
| Fine sea salt | Balances taste, strengthens dough structure |
| Barley malt syrup or honey (boiling) | Gives authentic bagel sheen and flavor |
| Toppings | Adds crunch, flavor, and visual appeal |
“Using einkorn flour gives our bagels a richer flavor, improved digestibility, and a golden crust you can truly savor.”
By starting with these quality ingredients, we set the stage for bagels that capture both tradition and nutrition in every bite. Each component supports the chewy texture and beautiful sheen that define an outstanding Einkorn Bagel Recipe.
Tools and Equipment Needed
Creating homemade Einkorn Bagels demands precise equipment to achieve the signature chewy crumb and golden crust. Using the right tools helps us craft consistent bagels every time, ensuring each batch rises well and bakes evenly. Below is a comprehensive list of what we need, along with a quick-use table for reference.
Essential Tools for Einkorn Bagel Recipe
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining and kneading our einkorn dough
- Kitchen Scale: Ensures ingredient accuracy since einkorn flour absorbs liquid differently than modern wheat
- Dough Scraper or Bench Knife: Helpful for portioning and handling the sticky dough
- Whisk and Wooden Spoon: For mixing wet and dry ingredients thoroughly
- Proofing Basket or Bowl: Supports dough during its first rise and maintains shape
- Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes transferring bagels simple
- Slotted Spoon or Skimmer: For gently lifting bagels out of boiling water without disturbing their shape
- Large Pot: Used for boiling bagels to create that classic chewy crust
- Baking Sheet or Bagel Board: Provides a sturdy, flat surface for baking
- Oven (Preheated): Vital for that even, golden-brown finish
- Wire Cooling Rack: Allows bagels to cool evenly and preserves their crust
Tools and Equipment Reference Table
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Knead and combine ingredients |
| Kitchen Scale | Measure ingredients precisely |
| Dough Scraper | Handle and portion sticky einkorn dough |
| Whisk & Wooden Spoon | Mix ingredients thoroughly |
| Proofing Basket/Bowl | Shape and rest the dough |
| Parchment Paper | Prevent bagels from sticking to the baking sheet |
| Slotted Spoon/Skimmer | Remove bagels from boiling water without damage |
| Large Pot | Boil bagels for signature crust |
| Baking Sheet/Board | Bake bagels evenly |
| Oven | Bake at consistent temperature |
| Wire Cooling Rack | Cool bagels for best texture |
“Investing in these tools elevates our bagel-baking experience and eliminates many common pitfalls, especially when working with ancient grains like einkorn.” Using high-quality tools ensures our Einkorn Bagel Recipe delivers authentic results batch after batch.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing our Einkorn Bagel Recipe in advance streamlines busy mornings and ensures a fresh, homemade breakfast at any time. Here’s how we maximize both convenience and flavor with these smart make-ahead strategies.
Make the Dough Ahead
We can mix and knead the einkorn bagel dough up to 24 hours in advance. After the first rise, shape the dough into bagels and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel.
- Refrigerate shaped bagels overnight
- Bagels rise slowly and develop deeper flavor.
- In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before boiling and baking.
Freeze Unbaked Bagels
Freezing unbaked, shaped bagels allows us to bake fresh any time.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Shape bagels | Follow recipe through shaping step. |
| Pre-freeze | Place shaped bagels on a tray, freeze until firm (2-3 hours). |
| Store | Transfer to a zip-top freezer bag, separate with parchment. |
| To use | Thaw bagels on a tray overnight in the fridge, then cook. |
Store Baked Bagels
Baked bagels retain their chewy crust and soft crumb if stored correctly.
- Room temperature: Keep cooled bagels in a paper bag for up to two days.
- For longer storage: Slice fully cooled bagels and place in a sealed freezer bag. Freeze for up to three months.
Tip: “Toast frozen bagels directly from the freezer for a crisp crust and fresh taste.”
Meal Prep and Serving
Make-ahead einkorn bagels work great for weekly meal prep. Assemble breakfast sandwiches or add spreads ahead of time for grab-and-go mornings.
- Pre-slice bagels before freezing to speed up breakfast prep.
- Portion spreads like cream cheese, nut butter, or avocado and store in airtight containers.
By embracing these simple steps, we keep our Einkorn Bagels ready for any schedule, ensuring the distinctive nutty aroma and golden crust shine through every bite.
Directions
Follow our step-by-step guide to create golden, chewy Einkorn Bagels with a crisp crust and deliciously nutty flavor. Each stage in this process ensures a bakery-quality result right from our own kitchens.
Prep the Dough
- Activate the yeast:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup warm water (about 105°F) with 2 teaspoons honey or coconut sugar. Sprinkle 2 1/4 teaspoons (one packet) active dry yeast over the top. Let stand until foamy, about 5 minutes.
- Mix dry and wet ingredients:
Add 3 1/2 cups einkorn flour and 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt to the bowl. Using a dough hook or sturdy spoon, mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough:
Knead by hand on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer for about 6 minutes. Einkorn dough will be slightly tacky but should not stick excessively.
First Rise
- Proof the dough:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap.
- Let it rise:
Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes until doubled in size.
| Stage | Recommended Time | Result |
|---|---|---|
| First rise | 60–90 minutes | Dough doubled in size |
Shaping the Bagels
- Divide the dough:
Gently turn out the dough onto a floured surface. Divide into 8 equal pieces using a dough scraper.
- Shape rounds:
Roll each piece into a tight ball. Let rest for 5 minutes.
- Form bagel shapes:
Poke a hole through the center of each ball using your thumb. Gently stretch and rotate to form a ring with a 1.5-inch center hole.
Second Rise
- Arrange and cover:
Place shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Proof again:
Cover loosely with a damp towel. Let rise for 20–30 minutes until slightly puffy.
Boiling the Bagels
- Prepare the water bath:
Bring a wide pot of water to a gentle boil. Stir in 1 tablespoon barley malt syrup (or honey for added sheen and flavor).
- Boil bagels:
Carefully drop bagels into boiling water, 2–3 at a time. Boil for 30–45 seconds per side, flipping halfway.
| Bagel Stage | Water Bath Add-In | Boil Time (each side) |
|---|---|---|
| Before baking | Barley malt syrup | 30–45 seconds |
- Transfer:
Remove the bagels with a slotted spoon. Place back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Baking the Bagels
- Preheat oven:
Set oven to 425°F (218°C). If desired, top bagels with seeds or flakes now.
- Bake:
Place the sheet in the center rack. Bake for 18–20 minutes until bagels are deep golden brown and the crust is crisp.
- Cool:
Transfer to a wire rack. Let cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing and enjoying the warm, nutty aroma of our homemade Einkorn Bagels.
Topping Suggestions
Our Einkorn Bagel Recipe delivers a perfectly chewy texture and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with a range of both classic and creative toppings. Selecting the right toppings elevates each bagel, highlighting the unique notes of einkorn flour and enhancing your breakfast or brunch experience.
Classic Bagel Toppings
- Cream Cheese: For a timeless approach, we love a thick layer of plain or whipped cream cheese. Try herbed or garden vegetable varieties for extra freshness.
- Butter: Spread on warm bagels for a melt-in-your-mouth treat.
- Smoked Salmon (Lox): Paired with cream cheese, thinly sliced red onion, capers, and fresh dill for a New York-style classic.
- Jam or Fruit Preserves: The subtle sweetness of fruit jam, such as strawberry or apricot, complements the earthy einkorn notes.
Sweet Topping Ideas
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Drizzle over warm bagels for a naturally sweet breakfast option.
- Nut Butters: Almond or peanut butter with sliced bananas or strawberries provides robust flavor and protein.
- Cinnamon Sugar Butter: Mix softened butter with ground cinnamon and coconut sugar for a dessert-inspired spread.
Savory Topping Combinations
- Avocado & Sea Salt: Smash ripe avocado on top and sprinkle with flaky sea salt, black pepper, and a squeeze of lemon.
- Hummus & Roasted Veggies: Add hummus and roasted peppers or tomatoes for a plant-based twist.
- Egg & Cheese: Top with a fried or scrambled egg and sharp cheddar for a satisfying breakfast sandwich.
Seed and Spice Mixes
Sprinkling seeds and spices enhances both sight and taste. Top bagels with these before baking for crunch and flavor:
| Topping | Taste Profile | How to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Sesame Seeds | Nutty | Sprinkle generously before baking |
| Poppy Seeds | Earthy | Dust over wet dough prior to bake |
| Everything Mix | Savory, bold | Combine sesame, poppy, onion, garlic, and salt |
| Za’atar Spice | Tangy, herbal | Press gently onto surface pre-bake |
Pro Tip: Brush each bagel with an egg wash before sprinkling on seeds or spices to help them stick and add shine.
Gourmet Pairing Suggestions
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped chives, basil, or parsley over soft cheese or butter brings out einkorn’s natural aroma.
- Flavored Cream Cheeses: Blend cream cheese with freshly ground black pepper, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted garlic for depth.
- Seasonal Fruit Slices: Thin figs, apples, or pears paired with a mild cheese add sweetness and crunch.
Storing and Freezing Tips
Proper storage preserves the chewy crumb and nutty flavor of our Einkorn Bagel Recipe. Let’s ensure every bagel stays fresh and delicious, whether eaten today or weeks from now.
Room Temperature Storage
- Place cooled einkorn bagels in a paper bag for up to 2 days.
- For added softness, insert the paper bag in a loosely sealed plastic bag. This retains gentle moisture without causing sogginess.
- Store at room temperature, away from sunlight or heat sources.
Refrigerator Storage
- We do not recommend refrigerating bagels since cold air can dry them out and affect texture.
- If you must refrigerate:
- Place bagels in an airtight container or zip-top bag.
- Consume within 3 days for optimal taste.
Freezing Baked Einkorn Bagels
- Slice bagels in half before freezing for easier toasting.
- Wrap each bagel or half tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place wrapped einkorn bagels in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
- Label with the freeze date.
- Store for up to 3 months.
| Storage Method | Wrap/Container | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Paper bag | Up to 2 days | Best texture and taste |
| Refrigerator | Airtight container | Up to 3 days | Not recommended |
| Freezer | Plastic wrap + bag | Up to 3 months | Slice before freezing for ease |
Thawing and Reheating Tips
- Remove frozen* einkorn bagels* from the freezer.
- Let them thaw at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours.
- For rapid thawing, wrap in a paper towel and microwave for 20 to 30 seconds.
- To restore crispness, toast halved bagels until golden and warm.
Serving Ideas
When it comes to enjoying our Einkorn Bagel Recipe we love getting creative with flavors and presentations. These bagels work across a variety of meals and can adapt to any craving whether you lean sweet, savory, or gourmet.
Breakfast Classics
- Toasted with Butter or Jam: Split the bagel while still slightly warm and spread with grass-fed butter or fruit preserves for a nostalgic treat.
- Egg and Cheese Bagel Sandwich: Layer scrambled eggs, sharp cheddar, and baby spinach on a halved bagel for a protein-rich start to your day.
Brunch & Entertaining
- Bagel Platter: Slice several einkorn bagels and serve with bowls of lox, capers, diced red onion, cucumber slices, and a variety of cream cheeses. Create a vibrant bagel board for guests to build their favorite combinations.
- Mini Bagel Bites: Cut bagels into thirds, toast, and top with goat cheese, thinly sliced roasted beets, and microgreens for a visually stunning party platter.
Healthy Lunches
- Avocado Smash: Top toasted bagel halves with mashed avocado, a squeeze of lemon, cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of hemp seeds.
- Hummus Veggie Stack: Layer garlic hummus, shredded carrots, sliced radishes, and sprouts for a deliciously crunchy and satisfying plant-based lunch.
Sweet or Indulgent
- Nut Butter & Banana: Spread almond butter on a warm bagel and top with banana rounds and cocoa nibs for a nourishing treat.
- Cinnamon Sugar Delight: Lightly butter the bagel surface, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and broil for 2-3 minutes until caramelized—a comfort food classic.
Elegant Dinner Pairings
- Soup & Bagel Pairing: Use our hearty bagels as dippers with butternut squash soup or lentil stew for a filling dinner.
- Bagel Crostini: Slice bagels thin, toast until crisp, and top with whipped feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil for a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer.
Bagel Serving Suggestions Table
| Occasion | Serving Suggestion | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | Toasted with Butter or Jam | Butter, Fruit Preserve |
| Brunch | Bagel Platter with Lox & Cream Cheese | Lox, Cream Cheese, Capers |
| Lunch | Avocado Smash | Avocado, Lemon, Seeds |
| Snack | Mini Bagel Bites with Goat Cheese and Beets | Goat Cheese, Roasted Beets |
| Sweet Treat | Nut Butter & Banana | Almond Butter, Banana, Cocoa Nibs |
| Dinner | Soup & Bagel Pairing | Soup of choice |
Expert Tips
- For an on-the-go breakfast, make sandwiches the night before and wrap them tightly. Our einkorn bagels hold their texture and flavor even when prepped in advance.
- To highlight the nutty flavor of einkorn flour serve with mild cheeses or fresh fruit slices. This brings out the natural aroma and toastiness of the ancient grain.
Our Einkorn Bagel Recipe is as versatile as it is nutritious making it ideal for everyday meals and special gatherings alike. Use these serving ideas to make the most of every golden, chewy bite.
Conclusion
Bringing einkorn bagels into our kitchens lets us enjoy both tradition and nutrition in every bite. With their rich flavor and chewy texture they’re a standout addition to any breakfast table or brunch spread.
Whether we’re savoring them fresh from the oven or reaching for a quick meal on a busy morning these bagels offer endless possibilities. Let’s keep experimenting with toppings and pairings to make each batch uniquely ours.