How to Make the Perfect Rainbow Bagel: A Step-by-Step Guide

In recent years, rainbow bagels have taken the internet by storm, becoming one of the most eye-catching food trends on social media. These vibrant, multicolored bagels aren’t just delicious—they’re works of art that bring joy to anyone who lays eyes on them. The combination of bright, swirling colors and the iconic round shape makes them a fun and Instagram-worthy breakfast or snack option. It’s no wonder that people can’t resist sharing their colorful creations with the world!

If you’ve seen these mesmerizing bagels all over your feed, you may be wondering: How can I make my own rainbow bagels at home? Well, you’re in the right place! In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create your very own rainbow bagels—from selecting the right ingredients to the secret behind that perfect swirl of color. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find that making rainbow bagels is a fun, creative, and surprisingly easy process.

Get ready to transform your regular bagel routine into something extraordinary. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to create Instagram-worthy rainbow bagels that are not only visually stunning but also irresistibly tasty!

What Are Rainbow Bagels?

Colorful rainbow bagel with cream cheese on a wooden board.
Rainbow bagels bring a burst of color and fun to your breakfast table, turning an everyday bagel into a vibrant treat.

Origin of Rainbow Bagels

Rainbow bagels have become one of the most recognizable and viral food trends in recent years, but their origin story is just as colorful as the bagels themselves. The phenomenon began in 2007 when a bakery in New York City, The Bagel Store, introduced these eye-catching, multicolored bagels to the world. With their vibrant swirls of red, blue, yellow, and green, the rainbow bagel quickly captured the attention of social media users and food lovers alike. The bagels became so popular that they quickly spread beyond New York and were embraced by bakeries across the U.S. and internationally.

What started as a fun twist on a classic breakfast staple quickly evolved into a viral sensation. In today’s world, the rainbow bagel has become much more than just a bagel; it’s a statement piece in the world of food. Their striking visual appeal and playful nature make them the perfect candidate for social media platforms like Instagram, where users love to share their #FoodGoals.

The “rainbow bagel craze” reached new heights with people creating Instagram-worthy bagels that stand out on the feed, sparking curiosity and excitement. The bagels themselves are not only a feast for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. As soon as they hit the internet, the hashtag #RainbowBagel began trending, and soon enough, bagel shops around the world started to experiment with their own colorful versions, adding unique flavors and toppings to satisfy the ever-growing demand.

So why exactly are rainbow bagels so popular? It’s a blend of both their visual appeal and the fun, creative process behind making them. In the world of food trends, it’s no surprise that colorful bagels have captured people’s imaginations. The vibrant hues and whimsical appearance of rainbow bagels make them stand out from the usual breakfast fare. Their playful colors evoke joy and fun, making them a perfect fit for social media platforms, especially Instagram, where users are drawn to food that’s as visually striking as it is delicious.

The rise of the rainbow bagel also speaks to a larger trend of colorful foods that are designed not just to taste good but to look good as well. The idea of “eating the rainbow” is increasingly popular as people look for foods that are not only healthy but also fun to make and eat. Colorful foods like rainbow bagels bring out a sense of creativity and excitement in the kitchen, allowing bakers and food enthusiasts to experiment with colors and flavors, creating something truly unique. This playful nature encourages people to share their creations online, turning a simple bagel into an eye-catching piece of food art.

Rainbow bagels have also earned their place as a “food trend” for those looking to push the boundaries of traditional baking. The ability to customize the bagels with different colors or even incorporate creative toppings (like vibrant cream cheese or rainbow sprinkles) has made them even more appealing. Whether for a brunch gathering, a birthday celebration, or just a fun treat, rainbow bagels have become a go-to for anyone who wants to add a pop of color to their meals.

Moreover, their popularity isn’t just about the visual impact. Rainbow bagels are often paired with unique, sweet fillings, which appeal to those with a penchant for novelty food combinations. This fusion of playful aesthetics and delightful taste has made rainbow bagels a favorite choice for food bloggers, chefs, and Instagram influencers, contributing further to their fame.

In summary, the appeal of rainbow bagels lies in their fun factor—they’re more than just a meal; they’re an experience. And, of course, they check all the boxes for Instagram-worthy food—colorful, shareable, and visually stunning. So whether you’re a foodie, a baker, or simply someone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, creating your own rainbow bagels is not just a baking project—it’s a celebration of creativity.

Essential Ingredients for Making Rainbow Bagels

Step-by-step process of shaping rainbow bagel dough with colorful swirls
Learn how to shape and color your dough for the perfect rainbow swirl bagels with this easy guide.

Basic Bagel Ingredients

To make homemade rainbow bagels, the foundation of your recipe is similar to that of traditional bagels. A few simple, yet essential ingredients are all you need to start:

  • Flour: All-purpose flour is typically used in bagel recipes. It provides the structure needed for that dense, chewy texture that bagels are known for. You can also experiment with bread flour for an even chewier bite.
  • Water: Water is critical for hydrating the flour and activating the yeast. The right temperature of the water is important—lukewarm water (around 110°F/43°C) is ideal to help the yeast activate without killing it.
  • Yeast: This is what makes the dough rise. You’ll need active dry yeast or instant yeast, both of which work similarly. The yeast will feed off the sugar and help the dough expand, making it light and airy inside while maintaining that perfect chewy texture.
  • Salt: Salt adds flavor and controls the fermentation process of the dough. It also helps balance the sweetness of any added sugars and toppings.
  • Sugar: Sugar is used to feed the yeast, ensuring the dough rises properly. It also contributes to the flavor and helps give the bagels their characteristic golden brown crust when baked.

These basic bagel dough ingredients are the heart of your rainbow bagel recipe. While these ingredients are standard in most bagel recipes, it’s the addition of vibrant food coloring that turns these traditional bagels into the striking, Instagram-worthy rainbow bagels we’re after.

These ingredients work together to create a sturdy, flavorful dough that can handle the colorful twists and turns of the rainbow effect. This recipe is simple but versatile, allowing you to customize the colors and even the flavors of your homemade rainbow bagels.

Food Coloring for Rainbow Effect

The magic of rainbow bagels lies in the bold, swirling colors that make them visually stunning. Achieving the vibrant rainbow effect requires careful attention to your choice of food coloring and how you mix it into the dough.

  • Choosing Food Coloring: Gel food coloring is the best choice for rainbow bagels because it is more concentrated and gives a more vibrant color than liquid food coloring. It also doesn’t affect the dough’s consistency the way liquid dyes might.
  • How Much to Use: Start by adding a small amount of gel food coloring—about ¼ to ½ teaspoon—for each color. If you want more intense colors, feel free to add more, but be mindful not to overpower the dough or create a mess.
  • Techniques for Coloring the Dough: The key to creating rainbow bagels is color separation. After you prepare your basic bagel dough, divide it into sections, adding one color to each portion. For instance, you might make one part red, another part blue, and another part yellow. Gently knead the dough with the food coloring, but avoid over-mixing, which can result in muddy colors.

Once you’ve divided your dough and added the coloring, it’s time to shape your rainbow bagels! As you twist, fold, and stretch the dough, you’ll create those beautiful, swirled patterns that make rainbow bagels so appealing. The food coloring for bagels is what turns this project from a simple baking task into a colorful work of art.

Feel free to experiment with the color combinations! You can create more traditional rainbow colors or go for an unconventional look with pastels or neon hues. The possibilities are endless, and the results will always be eye-catching.

Toppings and Fillings

Now that you’ve created your beautiful rainbow bagels, it’s time to think about the bagel toppings that will complement the vibrant colors. While rainbow bagels are already a visual treat, adding the right toppings and fillings can elevate the overall experience, making your bagels even more fun and flavorful.

  • Cream Cheese: This is the most classic and popular topping for bagels. For rainbow bagels, you can use plain cream cheese for a simple option, or you can get creative by adding flavored cream cheese. Consider mixing in a bit of honey, fruit puree (like strawberry or blueberry), or even sprinkles to keep the rainbow theme going.
  • Fruit Jam or Marmalade: A brightly colored jam can be a great way to continue the vibrant, colorful theme. Opt for strawberry, apricot, or mixed berry jams for a sweet contrast to the chewy bagel. The natural colors of the jam also enhance the overall aesthetic of the rainbow bagel.
  • Nut Butters: Peanut butter or almond butter are delicious and nutritious choices. You can make them even more fun by adding a swirl of honey or sliced fruits on top.
  • Fresh Fruit: For an extra pop of color, fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or kiwi slices pair beautifully with rainbow bagels. They add freshness and texture to the bagel, while also contributing to the vibrant look.

These colorful breakfast ideas aren’t just for Instagram—they can turn any morning into an exciting and visually appealing event. You can get as creative as you like with your toppings, but remember: simplicity is often key. The star of the show is the bagel itself, so choose toppings that enhance and complement the colors, not overpower them.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Rainbow Bagels

Step-by-step process of shaping rainbow bagel dough with colorful swirls.
Learn how to shape and color your dough for the perfect rainbow swirl bagels with this easy guide.

Making the Bagel Dough

The first and most important step to creating homemade rainbow bagels is preparing the bagel dough. While the process may seem long, each step is crucial in achieving that perfect bagel texture. Let’s break down the process:

  1. Combine the Dry Ingredients
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar. Stir the ingredients until well-mixed. These dry ingredients form the base of your bagel dough, so be sure they are evenly distributed.
  2. Activate the Yeast
    In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water (about 110°F/43°C). Add a small pinch of sugar to help activate the yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This process ensures that your yeast is active, which will help the dough rise and give the bagels their signature chewy texture.
  3. Mix and Knead the Dough
    Gradually add the yeast mixture into the flour mixture, stirring until the dough begins to come together. At this point, you’ll want to turn the dough out onto a clean surface and begin kneading it. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough reaches a smooth, elastic texture. A bagel dough consistency should feel firm yet pliable, with just a slight tackiness. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but avoid adding too much, as it can lead to a dry dough.
  4. Let It Rise
    Once the dough is kneaded, shape it into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm area for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This process is called proofing, and it helps to develop the texture and flavor of your bagels.

Now, with the dough ready, it’s time to transform it into the vibrant, colorful bagels that will be the star of your breakfast!

Coloring and Shaping the Dough

Once your dough has risen, you’re ready to add the signature swirl of color that makes rainbow bagels so eye-catching. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect rainbow effect:

  1. Divide the Dough
    After punching down the dough to release any air bubbles, divide it into several equal sections (usually 4-6 depending on how many colors you want). For a classic rainbow, divide the dough into 6 portions for each color: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. If you’re experimenting with pastels or other colors, divide the dough into fewer sections.
  2. Add the Food Coloring
    Take each section of dough and add a few drops of gel food coloring to each. Using your hands, gently fold and knead the dough until the color is evenly distributed. Be careful not to over-mix the dough; you want to preserve some of the color’s intensity and avoid blending the colors into one another. Food coloring for bagels is what creates the vibrant rainbow effect, so take your time to make sure the colors are distinct and bold.
  3. Swirl the Dough
    After each section of dough is colored, it’s time to shape the bagels. This is where the fun comes in! Take each portion of dough and roll it into a rope-like shape. Then, stack and twist the ropes together, creating a colorful swirl. This is a great time to follow bagel shaping tips—you can make a traditional bagel ring shape by pinching the ends of the ropes together. If you want a more abstract look, try twisting the dough together in a braid-like fashion. The key is to maintain the integrity of each color as you shape it, so that the vibrant swirls are still visible when the bagel is baked.
  4. Let the Shaped Bagels Rest
    Once your rainbow bagels are shaped, let them rest for about 15-20 minutes to firm up before boiling. This resting time helps the bagels hold their shape during the next crucial step: boiling.

Boiling and Baking the Bagels

One of the most distinctive aspects of making bagels is the boiling process—it’s what gives bagels their signature chewy texture and golden brown crust. Here’s how to get perfect rainbow bagels every time:

  1. Boil the Bagels
    Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding about 2 tablespoons of baking soda to the water. The baking soda helps to create a shiny, crisp crust on the bagels once they bake. Working in batches, gently drop your shaped bagels into the boiling water. Boil each bagel for about 1-2 minutes on each side. The bagels should float to the surface as they cook, and the water should stay at a gentle boil. The longer you boil, the chewier the texture of the bagel, so adjust the time depending on your preferred chewiness.
  2. Preheat the Oven
    While the bagels are boiling, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once all the bagels have been boiled, carefully place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Bake to Perfection
    Bake the bagels for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Baking tips for bagels: Keep an eye on the bagels while they bake, as oven temperatures can vary. You’ll want to see the tops turn a rich golden brown color to know that they’re done. If you prefer a crispier crust, leave them in the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
  4. Cool and Enjoy
    Once your rainbow bagels are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. The cooling process helps the bagels firm up and set their final texture.

Now your perfect rainbow bagels are ready to be served! You can slice them and top them with your favorite spreads, such as cream cheese or fruit jams, and enjoy the burst of color and flavor.

Pro Tips for Perfect Rainbow Bagels

Preventing Colors from Blending Too Much

One of the most common challenges when making rainbow bagels is keeping the colors vibrant and distinct. If you’re not careful, the dough can start to blend together, resulting in a muddied, less appealing appearance. Here are some pro tips to maintain the integrity of the colors and create eye-catching bagels:

  1. Don’t Over-Knead the Dough
    When you’re adding food coloring to your rainbow bagel dough, it’s important to knead the dough just enough to incorporate the color but not so much that the colors start to mix. Over-kneading can cause the colors to blend together into one, making the bagel lose its vibrant rainbow effect. Gently fold and knead the dough only until the color is evenly distributed. The key is to retain each color’s distinctness while still ensuring the dough is evenly colored.
  2. Work Quickly to Avoid Color Bleeding
    As you work with each colored section of dough, try to move quickly to avoid any bleeding of colors. The longer the dough sits, the more likely it is that the colors will begin to merge. Once you’ve shaped your dough into ropes for swirling, try to work efficiently and avoid letting the dough sit out for too long. Keeping the dough slightly chilled can also help prevent the colors from blending, so consider refrigerating the sections briefly before shaping them.
  3. Use Plastic Wrap or Wax Paper
    When you divide the dough into different colors, it’s helpful to wrap each color in plastic wrap or place it on wax paper to prevent them from touching too much. This is particularly important when shaping the dough, as it helps prevent colors from unintentionally mixing together before you’ve had a chance to swirl them into the desired patterns.

By following these tips, you can create vibrant bagels that retain their bright and beautiful colors, making each swirl of dough stand out just the way you want it.

Getting the Perfect Swirl

Now that you’ve mastered keeping the colors separate, it’s time to focus on getting the perfect swirl in your rainbow bagels. The swirling effect is what makes rainbow bagels so fun and eye-catching, and a good swirl technique can elevate your creation. Here’s how to achieve a beautiful, defined swirl:

  1. Roll the Dough into Uniform Ropes
    The first step to getting the perfect swirl is to roll each section of colored dough into evenly sized ropes. The ropes should be around the same thickness—if they are uneven, the swirl effect will not be as consistent. Aim for about 8-10 inches in length for each rope. This ensures that when you twist them together, they’ll create a beautiful, uniform swirl rather than an uneven, lumpy result.
  2. Twist with Care Using the Bagel Swirl Technique
    To get a more defined and beautiful swirl, bagel swirl technique is key. Once you have your ropes ready, gently twist them together, but don’t be too rough or too tight. The goal is to keep the individual colors separate, while still creating a clean, striking swirl. You can either form the dough into a ring, pinching the ends together to create a traditional bagel shape, or experiment with other shapes like braids or spirals for a unique look. As you twist the dough, avoid excessive manipulation, as it can distort the swirl or cause the colors to merge into each other.
  3. Roll and Stretch for Even Distribution
    After twisting the dough together, roll it gently on the surface to stretch it out and elongate the swirl. This will not only give you more space to work with, but it also helps to evenly distribute the colors, allowing the swirl to be more dramatic and defined. Stretching the dough slightly also helps to make sure the bagel holds its shape when boiled and baked, so it doesn’t lose its form in the process.
  4. Experiment with Layering the Colors
    For a more complex swirl, you can layer the dough ropes on top of each other before twisting. This allows for more intricate patterns, creating a multi-dimensional swirl effect that adds even more visual appeal to your rainbow bagels. Feel free to experiment with the order in which you layer the colors—stacking and twisting the ropes in different sequences can produce different results, so get creative!

By following these bagel shaping tips, you’ll be able to create a more defined swirl that really makes your bagels pop. The swirl is the centerpiece of a rainbow bagel’s appearance, so taking your time and being deliberate with your shaping technique can take your bagels from great to spectacular.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Rainbow Bagels

Rainbow bagels topped with cream cheese, fruits, and rainbow sprinkles.
Add playful toppings like cream cheese, fresh fruits, and sprinkles to make your rainbow bagels even more delicious.

Instagram-Worthy Bagel Toppings

Rainbow bagels are already a visual masterpiece, but when you pair them with vibrant, Instagram-worthy toppings, you elevate them to a whole new level. The possibilities are endless when it comes to colorful bagels—whether you’re looking to create a playful, festive mood or a more elegant touch. Here are some bagel toppings and combinations that are perfect for making your bagels pop even more:

  1. Cream Cheese and Fruit
    One classic topping for bagels is cream cheese, but you can make it more exciting by using flavored varieties or adding colorful fruit! Try spreading your bagel with blueberry cream cheese, then top it with fresh strawberries, kiwi slices, and a sprinkle of chia seeds for a colorful bagel that looks as good as it tastes. The natural colors from the fruits will complement your rainbow bagel and make it a visually stunning creation.
  2. Rainbow Sprinkles
    If you’re looking for an extra pop of color and fun, add a generous handful of rainbow sprinkles to your cream cheese or any spread of your choice. The sprinkles enhance the fun, playful vibe of the bagels and make them perfect for a kids’ party or as a treat for a special occasion. This is a super simple and quick way to make your Instagram-worthy bagels even more colorful and eye-catching.
  3. Avocado and Radishes
    For a savory twist, consider spreading your rainbow bagel with mashed avocado, then topping it with thinly sliced radishes and a drizzle of olive oil. You can even sprinkle a little sea salt or add a dash of chili flakes to create a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and spicy flavors. This topping not only looks great but also makes for a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack.
  4. Nut Butter and Banana
    Another creative way to top your rainbow bagels is with peanut butter or almond butter, followed by banana slices, and a drizzle of honey. The creamy texture of the nut butter combined with the sweetness of the banana pairs perfectly with the chewy, colorful bagel, making for a filling and nutritious snack that looks beautiful too.
  5. Flavored Cream Cheese Combinations
    Get creative with your cream cheese by mixing it with different flavorings! Try mixing it with a little honey and cinnamon for a sweet treat or blend in herbs like chives, dill, or garlic for a savory flavor profile. You can even go as far as mixing in a handful of crushed nuts or edible flowers for an Instagram-worthy bagel that’s visually impressive and delicious. With these unique combinations, your rainbow bagels will be the talk of any social media feed!

By experimenting with different toppings, you can transform your rainbow bagels into both a delicious and Instagram-worthy food that is perfect for showcasing online and impressing your followers.

Rainbow Bagels for Special Occasions

Rainbow bagels aren’t just for everyday breakfasts—they make an excellent addition to any special event or gathering. Their vibrant appearance and unique twist on a classic food can be a conversation starter at many occasions. Here’s how you can incorporate rainbow bagels into different events to add a splash of color and fun:

  1. Brunch Parties
    Rainbow bagels are perfect for brunch parties, especially when paired with a spread of delicious toppings like smoked salmon, cream cheese, cucumbers, and fresh herbs. You can set up a “build-your-own bagel” bar, where guests can customize their own bagels with toppings of their choice, adding to the fun and social nature of brunch. The colorful bagels create a visually striking centerpiece, making your brunch table feel vibrant and festive.
  2. Birthday Parties
    A rainbow-themed food idea, rainbow bagels can serve as the highlight of a birthday celebration. Imagine a birthday breakfast or party where the bagels are served alongside rainbow-colored beverages, fruit platters, and colorful cupcakes. They’re perfect for both kids and adults, making them a fun and interactive food option that adds whimsy to the occasion. Plus, these bagels double as great party conversation starters—guests will be eager to snap a picture before digging in!
  3. Holiday Celebrations
    Whether it’s for Easter, St. Patrick’s Day, or Pride Month, rainbow bagels make a fantastic addition to holiday events. You can create a themed spread by pairing your rainbow bagels with holiday-themed toppings, like festive eggs and avocado for Easter or rainbow frosting and sprinkles for Pride Month. These fun bagel recipes are especially great when paired with other colorful holiday treats, creating an eye-catching spread that celebrates the spirit of the occasion.
  4. Baby Showers or Gender Reveal Parties
    If you’re planning a gender reveal or a baby shower, rainbow bagels are a fun and unique way to bring color to the event. For a gender reveal, you could fill the bagels with colorful cream cheese or spread the bagels with a pink or blue-colored frosting to signify the baby’s gender. The excitement of cutting open the bagels to reveal the surprise can create a memorable moment, and the rainbow effect adds a playful touch to the celebration.
  5. Picnics and Potlucks
    Rainbow bagels are perfect for picnics and potlucks, where their vibrant appearance will surely attract attention. Serve them as a fun, shared snack that adds a playful element to your outdoor gatherings. They can be topped with various spreads, such as cream cheese or hummus, making them versatile for a range of guests and dietary preferences.

By serving rainbow bagels at these special events, you’re not only offering a delicious food item, but also an eye-catching centerpiece that will create a festive atmosphere and make lasting memories for your guests.

Conclusion

Making rainbow bagels at home is a fun and colorful experience that not only satisfies your taste buds but also sparks creativity in the kitchen. From mixing vibrant food colors to shaping the dough into those eye-catching swirls, every step of the process is an opportunity to have fun and experiment. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a first-timer, these bagels are sure to impress—with their chewy texture, beautiful swirls, and endless topping possibilities, they’re more than just a breakfast—they’re an experience!

The joy of creating Instagram-worthy bagels at home can be just as rewarding as the joy of eating them! It’s an opportunity to make something unique, something that bursts with color and flavor, and that stands out on your kitchen counter or at a special event. And let’s not forget—the best part is sharing your creations with others!

Rainbow Bagel

Rainbow Bagel

Paul, AI Chef
Learn how to make vibrant rainbow bagels at home with simple steps. Perfect for any occasion, topped with fun and colorful ingredients!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 8 bagels
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Bagel Dough:

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour 17.6 oz
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt 0.25 oz
  • 2 tablespoons sugar 0.75 oz
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast 0.2 oz
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water 10 oz, 110°F
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 0.5 oz
  • 1 large egg for egg wash

For the Colorful Dye:

  • Red food coloring
  • Yellow food coloring
  • Blue food coloring
  • Green food coloring

For Boiling:

  • 4 quarts water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar 0.5 oz

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
  • Gradually add the warm water and vegetable oil, mixing until the dough forms.
  • Knead for about 8-10 minutes on a lightly floured surface until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Divide and Dye:

  • Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 4 equal portions.
  • Add a few drops of food coloring to each portion of dough (red, yellow, blue, and green).
  • Knead each portion until the color is evenly distributed.

Shape the Bagels:

  • Take one portion of each color and roll each into a long rope (about 10-12 inches long).
  • Lay the ropes side by side and twist them together to form a colorful dough log.
  • Pinch the ends to form a ring, creating a bagel shape.
  • Repeat with the remaining dough portions.

Boil the Bagels:

  • In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil and stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar.
  • Carefully drop the bagels, one at a time, into the boiling water and cook for 1 minute on each side.
  • Remove the bagels with a slotted spoon and set them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake the Bagels:

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Brush the boiled bagels with an egg wash (beaten egg).
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve & Enjoy:

  • Let the rainbow bagels cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with cream cheese or your favorite topping.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Rainbow Bagels:

  • Ensure the water temperature is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
  • To get vibrant colors, use gel food coloring rather than liquid.
  • If you want an even crispier bagel, try a quick broil for the last 1-2 minutes of baking.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Total Fat: 0.053 oz (1.5 g)
    • Saturated Fat: 0.018 oz (0.5 g)
    • Trans Fat: 0 oz (0 g)
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Sodium: 0.0116 oz (330 mg)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 1.94 oz (55 g)
    • Dietary Fiber: 0.071 oz (2 g)
    • Sugars: 0.28 oz (8 g)
  • Protein: 0.32 oz (9 g)
  • Vitamin A: 0%
  • Vitamin C: 0%
  • Calcium: 6%
  • Iron: 8%

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