As I stood in my kitchen amid the fragrant aroma of fresh strawberries, I realized something magical was happening. These Homemade Strawberry Bagels not only look whimsical with their vibrant pink hue but they also bring an irresistible twist to your breakfast table. Infused with real strawberry flavor and a hint of beetroot, they are delightfully chewy and elevate any morning with a touch of creativity. Best of all, the associated creamy strawberry spread takes these bagels to a whole new level of deliciousness, making them a crowd-pleaser for family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just looking to shake up your breakfast routine, this Strawberry Bagels recipe promises to be a fun and tasty adventure in your kitchen. Are you ready to dive into this berry bliss?
Why Are These Strawberry Bagels Unique?
Deliciously Fun: Who doesn’t love a vibrant pink treat? These bagels are not only visually stunning but are also packed with real strawberry flavor.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, achieving that perfect chewy texture is simpler than you might think, making them great for any home chef.
Versatile Toppings: Pair them with the creamy strawberry spread or alternate with flavored butters; the options are endless for your breakfast creativity. You might even enjoy them alongside a refreshing Strawberry Spinach Salad to complement the sweetness.
A Healthy Choice: With whole food ingredients, these bagels are a nutritious addition to your breakfast table. Each bagel is about 280 calories, making them a satisfying yet wholesome option.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s for brunch or everyday breakfasts, these Strawberry Bagels are bound to impress family and friends with their unique twist on a classic.
Strawberry Bagels Recipe Ingredients
For the Bagels
• Fresh Strawberries – The main flavor component, offering natural sweetness and vibrant color; frozen strawberries can be used if fresh ones are unavailable.
• Beetroot – Enhances the pink hue without altering flavor; use sparingly for optimal color.
• Bread Flour – Essential for achieving chewy bagel texture due to its high protein content; can substitute with all-purpose flour for a softer bite.
• Active Dry Yeast – Provides leavening and flavor; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Brown Sugar – Adds depth to the dough and poaching water; you can substitute it with granulated sugar if needed.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the strawberry flavor and helps maintain the beautiful pink during baking; fresh juice is always preferred.
• Salt – Strengthens gluten structure while balancing sweetness; make sure to include it.
• Egg – Used for the egg wash, giving the bagels that beautiful glossy finish.
For the Creamy Strawberry Spread
• Cream Cheese – The base for the spread; opt for full-fat for a richer flavor, or low-fat for a lighter alternative.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and richness to the cream cheese spread; this is optional but highly recommended.
• Chopped Strawberries – Mixed in for extra berry sweetness and flavor; feel free to adjust the quantity based on your preference.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the spread while keeping it creamy; adjust to taste based on your sweetness preference.
Make these vibrant Strawberry Bagels using this delightful Strawberry Bagels recipe, and you’ll have a breakfast that not only looks great but tastes fantastic too!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Bagels Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Strawberry Mixture
Begin your culinary adventure by chopping fresh strawberries and combining them in a saucepan with lemon juice and brown sugar. Simmer this delightful mixture over medium heat for about 10 minutes until the strawberries are soft and the sugar has melted. Use a fork to mash the strawberries lightly, then remove from heat and let cool. This vibrant mixture will infuse your Strawberry Bagels with natural sweetness.
Step 2: Blend Beetroot for Color
To achieve that whimsical pink hue, blend a small beetroot with a splash of water and a teaspoon of sugar until smooth. This should take about 1-2 minutes on high speed. Once blended, strain the mixture to remove any pulp, and reserve the beautifully colored liquid. This beetroot blend will enhance your Strawberry Bagels with an appealing color without compromising their delightful flavor.
Step 3: Activate the Yeast
In a mixing bowl, combine one cup of warm water with active dry yeast and a tablespoon of sugar. Stir gently and let it stand for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This is a crucial step for the yeast activation, ensuring your bagels rise perfectly. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture bubbles and expands, which adds flavor and lift to your Strawberry Bagels.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Now, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour and salt, ensuring an even distribution. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the flour mix along with your cooled strawberry and beetroot blend. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. The vibrant color and strawberry aroma will start to envelop your kitchen, promising a delectable outcome.
Step 5: Knead the Dough
Continue by transferring the shaggy dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency. Kneading develops the gluten, ensuring your Strawberry Bagels have that perfect chewy texture we all love.
Step 6: Let the Dough Rise
Once kneaded, shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This resting period allows air bubbles to form, creating a light and airy bagel. Keep an eye on it, and enjoy the delightful rise of your dough.
Step 7: Shape the Bagels
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles, then divide it into equal portions, shaping each into a smooth ball. Let them rest under the towel for 30 minutes to relax the gluten. This shaping process is key to forming beautiful bagels that will hold their shape when boiled and baked.
Step 8: Form the Bagels
Take each resting dough ball and poke a hole through the center with your thumb, gently stretching the hole to form the classic bagel shape. Place each formed bagel on a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise gives your Strawberry Bagels a wonderful texture and makes them fluffy and delightful.
Step 9: Boil the Bagels
In a large pot, bring water and a couple of tablespoons of brown sugar to a boil. Once boiling, carefully drop each bagel into the water, poaching them for 1 minute on each side. This step is essential as boiling creates that characteristic chewy crust. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and transfer to the baking sheet, ensuring they maintain their shape.
Step 10: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 415°F (210°C) while you prepare for the final touch. Brush each bagel with an egg wash for a glossy finish, then place them in the oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they are a beautiful golden brown. The aroma of freshly baked Strawberry Bagels will fill your kitchen, signaling that breakfast is almost ready!
Step 11: Create the Strawberry Spread
While the bagels bake, prepare the creamy strawberry spread. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped strawberries, a splash of vanilla extract, and powdered sugar to taste. Mix until smooth and creamy, making sure the sweetness balances with the freshness of the strawberries. This rich spread will elevate your Strawberry Bagels to a delightful breakfast experience.
Step 12: Serve and Enjoy
Let the freshly baked Strawberry Bagels cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing them in half. Serve them warm with a generous dollop of the creamy strawberry spread. This wholesome combination is not just visually stunning but also a deliciously sweet treat perfect for any breakfast table!
Helpful Tricks for Strawberry Bagels
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Perfect Yeast Activation: Make sure your water is warm, not hot, about 110°F. Too hot will kill the yeast, affecting your Strawberry Bagels’ rise.
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Kneading Consistency: If your dough is sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time during kneading for ideal texture. This ensures your bagels are chewy, not dense.
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Bagel Shaping: Remember to poke a hole through the center and stretch the dough lightly for the classic bagel shape. This helps them hold together during boiling.
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Boiling Tips: Use a slotted spoon to carefully place and remove bagels from the boiling water. This helps maintain their shape while creating that signature chewy crust.
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Cooling Before Slicing: Allow the bagels to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps avoid squishing them and keeps the texture just right. Enjoy your delightful Strawberry Bagels!
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Bagels are a wonderful choice for meal prep, saving you time during busy mornings! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. After mixing and kneading, simply cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate; this slow fermentation enhances the flavor. If you prefer to shape the bagels ahead, divide and shape the dough, then place them on a lined baking sheet; cover and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before boiling and baking as per the recipe. This ensures your bagels will be just as delicious and fresh!
Strawberry Bagels Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Strawberry Bagels and customize them to suit your tastes!
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Berry Blend: Swap strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a delightful twist that adds variety to your breakfast. The colors will be just as vibrant, and you’ll discover new flavor profiles that dance on your palate!
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Whole Grain: Substitute part of the bread flour with whole grain flour to enhance nutritional value. This not only adds fiber but also results in a nutty taste that complements the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.
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Savory Cream Cheese: For a different flavor experience, try adding herbs and spices to your cream cheese spread. Mixing in fresh chives or a dash of smoked paprika will turn this sweet spread into something uniquely savory.
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Alternative Sweeteners: Instead of brown sugar, experiment with honey or maple syrup in the bagel dough. Each substitute lends a different depth of sweetness that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Add-Ins Galore: Incorporate mix-ins like crushed nuts or seeds directly into the bagel dough for crunch. Walnuts, flaxseeds, or sunflower seeds add excellent texture and nutritional benefits.
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Flavor-Boosted Cream Cheese: Try flavoring your cream cheese spread with lemon zest or almond extract for an extra layer of deliciousness. These subtle hints can elevate the spread beyond your expectations.
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Spiced Bagels: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm spice note. This delightful addition pairs beautifully with the sweet strawberries, creating a cozy breakfast treat.
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Creamy Toppings: Top your bagels with an additional layer of yogurt or a light drizzle of balsamic glaze alongside the strawberry spread for a fresh flavor contrast. This combination will have everyone reaching for seconds!
As you create these delightful Strawberry Bagels, don’t forget to enjoy them warm paired with a light side of a refreshing Strawberry Spinach Salad, or treat yourself to a slice of a luscious Strawberry Icebox Pie. Happy baking!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Bagels
Room Temperature: Keep bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness and chewy texture.
Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in a tightly sealed container; this will help them last longer while keeping them soft.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, toast them straight from frozen for a quick and delicious breakfast.
Reheating: To reheat, simply pop the bagels in a toaster or oven for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy. Enjoy your delightful strawberry bagels!
What to Serve with Homemade Strawberry Bagels
Wake up your breakfast routine with delightful sides that enhance the fruity sweetness and chewy texture of these pastel pink gems!
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Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of tangy yogurt perfectly balances the sweetness of the bagels and adds a refreshing contrast. Top with honey and granola for extra texture and flavor.
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Fruit Salad: A bright and colorful fruit salad with seasonal berries, melons, and a hint of mint will complement the strawberry theme while providing a refreshing crunch.
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Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs, perhaps with a sprinkle of cheese, add a savory touch that balances the sweet strawberry flavor beautifully. Their creaminess pairs well with the chewy bagel.
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Flavored Butter: Consider serving with an herb-infused or cinnamon honey butter. These delightful spreads not only brighten your bagel experience but also add new flavors to explore.
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Fresh Mint Tea: A warm cup of fresh mint tea will cleanse your palate and complement the berry-filled flavors of the bagel. It’s a soothing beverage that’s perfect for mornings.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For a sweet treat, serve these alongside your strawberry bagels. Their richness enhances the flavor profile while adding an indulgent twist that’s perfect for special occasions.
Strawberry Bagels Recipe FAQs
How should I select fresh strawberries?
Absolutely! Look for fresh strawberries that are bright red, plump, and free from bruises or dark spots. The more fragrant they are, the better! If you need to use frozen strawberries, make sure they’re unsweetened to maintain the flavor balance in your bagels.
What is the best way to store leftover strawberry bagels?
Very simple! Store your bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal taste. If you’re keeping them longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days in a sealed container. This will help keep them soft while prolonging freshness!
Can I freeze strawberry bagels, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, toast them straight from the freezer for a quick and delicious breakfast that rivals freshly baked!
What should I do if my dough is sticky while kneading?
Don’t worry! If your dough feels sticky, simply sprinkle in a tablespoon of flour at a time while kneading until it becomes smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. It’s all about finding that perfect balance for chewy bagels.
Are strawberry bagels safe for pets or individuals with allergies?
While strawberry bagels are delightful for humans, avoid sharing them with your pets as most can’t digest bread properly. If you have allergies, be cautious with ingredients like cream cheese. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute with a plant-based cream cheese alternative.
How long do the strawberry bagels stay fresh after baking?
Typically, your strawberry bagels will be at their best for about 2 days at room temperature and up to 5 days in the fridge. However, freezing them is a fabulous option! Just ensure they’re wrapped properly to keep that deliciousness intact.
Delicious Strawberry Bagels Recipe with Creamy Spread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chop fresh strawberries and combine with lemon juice and brown sugar in a saucepan. Simmer for about 10 minutes until soft, then mash lightly and cool.
- Blend a small beetroot with a splash of water and a teaspoon of sugar until smooth. Strain to reserve the colored liquid.
- Combine one cup of warm water with active dry yeast and a tablespoon of sugar. Let it stand for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together bread flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and cooled strawberry/beetroot blend, stirring until shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding flour as needed.
- Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled.
- Punch down the risen dough, divide into portions, and shape into balls. Let them rest under a towel for 30 minutes.
- Poke a hole in the center of each ball to shape the bagels and let them rise for another 30 minutes on a baking sheet.
- Boil water with brown sugar. Poach each bagel in the simmering water for 1 minute on each side, then transfer to the baking sheet.
- Preheat oven to 415°F (210°C). Brush bagels with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Combine softened cream cheese, chopped strawberries, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar to taste. Mix until smooth.
- Cool the bagels slightly, slice in half, and serve warm with the creamy strawberry spread.