Description
Black Russian bagels are bold and flavorful, made with dark rye flour, molasses, caraway seeds, and a striking deep color. Chewy on the outside and tender inside, they’re perfect for hearty sandwiches or cream cheese spreads.
Ingredients
1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 tablespoon molasses
1 cup rye flour
2 1/2 cups bread flour (plus more as needed)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon caraway seeds
1 tablespoon cocoa powder (for color)
1 tablespoon instant coffee or espresso powder
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Water for boiling
1 tablespoon molasses (for boiling water)
Optional: extra caraway seeds for topping
Instructions
1. In a bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon molasses. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine rye flour, bread flour, salt, caraway seeds, cocoa powder, and coffee powder.
3. Add yeast mixture and oil. Mix and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add flour as needed.
4. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
5. Punch down dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Shape each into a ball, then poke a hole in the center and stretch to form a bagel shape.
6. Place bagels on a parchment-lined tray, cover lightly, and let rest for 15–20 minutes.
7. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon molasses.
8. Boil bagels 30 seconds per side. Remove and place on baking sheet. Sprinkle with extra caraway seeds if desired.
9. Bake for 20–25 minutes until dark and crusty. Cool on a rack before serving.
Notes
For extra chew, let shaped bagels rest overnight in the fridge.
Cocoa and coffee give color and depth but don’t overpower the flavor.
Great with smoked salmon, pastrami, or sharp cheddar.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking + Boiling
- Cuisine: Jewish-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: black russian bagels, rye bagels, dark bagels, caraway bagels