Vegan Rainbow Bagels Recipe: A Colorful Delight

Add a pop of color to your breakfast or snack time with these Vegan Rainbow Bagels. Soft, chewy, and bursting with vibrant hues, these bagels are perfect for making any occasion extra special. They’re not only fun to make but also entirely plant-based, making them a great choice for everyone to enjoy.

What Are Vegan Rainbow Bagels?

Vegan Rainbow Bagels are traditional bagels transformed into a kaleidoscope of colors. Made with simple ingredients, these bagels use food coloring to create a visually stunning effect while maintaining the classic chewy texture and subtle flavor of a bagel. They’re perfect for pairing with sweet or savory toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fun and colorful: Perfect for kids and festive occasions.
• Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples.
• Vegan-friendly: Completely plant-based, ensuring inclusivity for various diets.
• Customizable: Adjust colors and flavors to suit your style.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp (12g) sugar
• 1½ tsp (9g) salt
• 2¼ tsp (7g) instant yeast (1 packet)
• 1¼ cups (300ml) warm water

For Coloring:

• Food coloring (red, yellow, green, blue, purple)

For Boiling:

• 8 cups (2L) water
• 2 tbsp (24g) sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring to combine.
3. Knead the mixture on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until a smooth, elastic dough forms.

Adding Color

1. Divide the dough into 5 equal portions.
2. Knead a few drops of food coloring into each portion until the colors are vibrant and evenly distributed.
3. Cover each dough ball with a clean towel and let rest for 10 minutes.

Shaping the Bagels

1. Roll each colored portion into long ropes.
2. Layer and twist the ropes together to create a rainbow effect.
3. Shape the twisted ropes into a circle, pressing the ends together to seal.
4. Place each shaped bagel on a tray lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for 20-30 minutes.

Boiling the Bagels

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water and 2 tbsp of sugar to a boil.
3. Boil each bagel for 1 minute on each side.
4. Transfer boiled bagels to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Baking the Bagels

1. Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until firm and slightly golden.
2. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Spread with vegan cream cheese or your favorite jam.
• Top with avocado slices and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
• Use as a colorful base for a bagel sandwich.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheat in the toaster or oven for a freshly baked feel.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap individual bagels in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature and toast before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Natural coloring: Use beet juice, turmeric, spirulina, and other natural colorants.
• Flavored bagels: Add cinnamon and raisins or savory herbs to the dough.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, but activate the yeast first by dissolving it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before mixing it with the dry ingredients.

What type of food coloring works best?
Gel or liquid food coloring works well, but gel provides more vibrant colors with less product.

Can I skip the boiling step?
Boiling is essential for achieving the classic chewy bagel texture, so it’s not recommended to skip this step.

These Vegan Rainbow Bagels are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for the taste buds. Whether for a special occasion or a fun weekend baking project, they’re sure to impress. Try them out and share your colorful creations with friends and family!

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