How do I know when it is done?

Use the timing as a guide, then check the center with the recipe's doneness cue, such as a clean toothpick, set edges, bubbling filling, or a gently springy top.

Can I change the flavor?

Yes. Keep changes small the first time, such as adding citrus zest, spice, chocolate, nuts, or a simple glaze that matches the recipe.

What should beginners watch most closely?

Measure carefully, avoid overmixing batters or doughs, and let the bake cool long enough before slicing, glazing, or storing.

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No-Knead Whole-Grain Cinnamon Raisin Soft Bagels with Honey Glaze – Beginner-Friendly Recipe

Name: No-Knead Whole-Grain Cinnamon Raisin Soft Bagels with Honey Glaze – Beginner-Friendly Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups whole wheat flour; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons instant yeast; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C); 1/2 cup raisins; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for greasing bowl); 2 tablespoons honey (for glaze); 1 tablespoon warm water (for glaze)

By Beginnerbakes Test KitchenReviewed by Beginnerbakes Editorial TeamPublished May 6, 2026 · Updated Jul 11, 2026

American 35 mins beginner-friendlyeasyno-kneadstep-by-stepone-bowlwhole-grainmorning-bakecomfort-foodlow-calorieminimal-ingredients

Make soft and chewy whole-grain cinnamon raisin bagels topped with a luscious honey glaze using this easy no-knead, one-bowl recipe. Perfect for beginner bakers seeking a wholesome, comforting breakfast or snack with minimal effort.

No-Knead Whole-Grain Cinnamon Raisin Soft Bagels with Honey Glaze – Beginner-Friendly Recipe

Prep 10 min

Cook 25 min

Total 35 min

Servings 6

Difficulty easy

Cuisine American

Ingredients

Servings 6

2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons instant yeast
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
1/2 cup raisins
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for greasing bowl)
2 tablespoons honey (for glaze)
1 tablespoon warm water (for glaze)

BeginnerBakes cinnamon raisin bagel ingredients

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, instant yeast, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
Pour warm water into the dry ingredients and mix with a wooden spoon or your hand until a sticky dough forms. No kneading required; ensure all flour is hydrated.
Gently fold the raisins evenly into the dough.
Lightly grease the same bowl with vegetable oil. Shape the dough into a ball and place it back into the bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot for 1½ to 2 hours, until doubled in size.
Once risen, deflate the dough gently on a floured surface. Divide into 6 equal portions.
Roll each portion into a ball and use your thumb to poke a hole through the center. Stretch the hole to form a bagel shape approximately 2-3 inches wide.
Arrange the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely and rest for 20 minutes to puff slightly.
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil.
Boil bagels two at a time for 1 minute per side, then remove with a slotted spoon and transfer back to the baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
While baking, mix honey and warm water for the glaze until smooth.
Brush the warm bagels generously with the honey glaze upon removal from the oven. Cool on a wire rack.
Serve warm or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for extended freshness.

BeginnerBakes raw cinnamon raisin bagel dough rings before cooking

Tips

Equipment Needed

Essential beginner-friendly tools to create these soft, no-knead whole-grain cinnamon raisin bagels with honey glaze include: Large Mixing Bowl: For mixing dough and proofing. Wooden Spoon or Mixing Spoon: Ideal for stirring and combining ingredients without kneading. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurement of flours, spices, yeast, and liquids.

Ingredient Prep Notes

Flour: Choose fresh whole wheat flour finely milled for tender texture. Adjust by replacing part of whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour for lighter crumb. Gluten-free adaptations require certified blends, though texture may vary.

Oven Note

For soft, chewy bagels with a golden crust, follow these essential oven and baking tips suitable for beginners: Fully preheat the oven: Reach 425 degrees F (220 degrees C) for authentic crust development. Use an oven thermometer: Confirm accuracy, as oven temperatures vary. Middle rack placement: Ensures even heat and balanced baking.

Easy Upgrade Ideas

Add simple yet impressive touches to your soft whole-grain cinnamon raisin bagels with these beginner-friendly upgrades: Nutty Crunch: Incorporate 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for delightful texture and flavor. Spiced Twist: Enhance warmth by adding 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg or allspice. Glaze Variations: Swap honey for maple syrup glaze or finish with powdered sugar and cinnamon dusting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make No-Knead Whole-Grain Cinnamon Raisin Soft Bagels with Honey Glaze – Beginner-Friendly Recipe ahead?: Yes. Bake it ahead, cool it fully, and store it as directed so the texture stays as close to fresh as possible.
How do I know when it is done?: Use the timing as a guide, then check the center with the recipe's doneness cue, such as a clean toothpick, set edges, bubbling filling, or a gently springy top.
Can I change the flavor?: Yes. Keep changes small the first time, such as adding citrus zest, spice, chocolate, nuts, or a simple glaze that matches the recipe.
What should beginners watch most closely?: Measure carefully, avoid overmixing batters or doughs, and let the bake cool long enough before slicing, glazing, or storing.

Ingredient Replacements

whole wheat flour: Use whole wheat pastry flour for a nuttier bake or a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend if needed, checking texture before baking.
all-purpose flour: Use whole wheat pastry flour for a nuttier bake or a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend if needed, checking texture before baking.
instant yeast: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.
brown sugar: Swap with a similar sweetener in small adjustments because liquid sweeteners can change browning and moisture.
ground cinnamon: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.

Storage and Reheating

Cool leftovers before storing. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze when the ingredients are freezer-friendly.

Read related air fryer guides and cooking tips.

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No-Knead Whole-Grain Cinnamon Raisin Soft Bagels with Honey Glaze – Beginner-Friendly Recipe

Recipe Details

Ingredients

Instructions