Delicious Strawberry Bagels with Sweet Cream Cheese Spread
Last Updated on March 13, 2026 by Alma
There’s a certain joy that comes from creating something delicious from scratch, and these Strawberry Bagels are the perfect way to elevate your breakfast game. I first discovered this delightful recipe during a lazy weekend morning when I wanted to avoid the usual cereal routine. The vibrant color of strawberries mixed with the soft, chewy texture of bagels seemed like the ideal way to indulge without excess fuss.
As the strawberries simmered on the stove, their sweet aroma wafted through my kitchen, awakening my fond memories of summer picnics and sun-soaked days. The addition of beet not only enhances the beautiful hue but also adds a hint of earthy sweetness that balances everything out. Plus, with a luscious strawberry cream cheese spread to slather on top, these bagels become the centerpiece of any brunch table.
Best of all, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a bit of time and a handful of ingredients. Whether you re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a homemade breakfast, you ll find that these Strawberry Bagels offer a delightful twist that strays far from boring fast food habits. Get ready to impress not just your taste buds but also anyone lucky enough to share in this joyful creation!
Why are Strawberry Bagels a must-try?
Unique flavor: The burst of strawberry sweetness combined with the earthiness of beet creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Easy to make: Even beginner bakers can master these bagels with simple steps and minimal effort.
Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, these bagels can be enjoyed any time of the day.
Appealing visuals: Their vibrant color makes a stunning presentation, sure to wow your family and friends.
Creamy topping: The strawberry cream cheese spread elevates these bagels from ordinary to extraordinary!
Whether you’re looking for a fun weekend project or a new brunch favorite, these bagels will leave you craving more.
Strawberry Bagels Ingredients
A delightful mix for your breakfast!
For the Dough
- Warm water cup, helps activate the yeast for perfect rise.
- Dry active yeast 2 tsp, essential for leavening your bagels.
- Granulated sugar or honey 2 tbsp, feeds the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness.
- All-purpose flour 3 cups, forms the base of your beautifully chewy bagels.
- Salt 1 tsp, enhances the flavor of the dough.
For the Strawberry Mixture
- Strawberries 1 lb, fresh or frozen, lend natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Lemon juice 1 tsp, brightens the strawberry flavor for a refreshing tang.
- Brown sugar 2 tbsp, balances the tartness of the strawberries while adding depth.
For the Beet Blend
- Beet ½, chopped, provides a gorgeous hue and subtle earthiness.
- Water 1 tbsp, helps pur e the beet into a smooth mixture.
For Poaching
- Water 810 cups, essential for poaching the bagels for that classic texture.
- Brown sugar cup, adds a hint of sweetness during the poaching process.
For the Egg Wash
- Egg 1, gives your bagels a beautiful golden color.
- Water 1 tbsp, thins the egg for easy brushing.
For the Cream Cheese Spread
- Cream cheese 8 oz, softened, creates a deliciously creamy base for the spread.
- Chopped strawberries cup, adds a refreshing berry bite to the cream cheese.
- Vanilla extract 1 tsp, infuses the spread with sweet, aromatic flavor.
- Granulated sugar 1 tbsp, sweetens the spread just right.
With these ingredients in hand, you re all set to embark on a delightful journey of making Strawberry Bagels that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also warm your heart!
How to Make Strawberry Bagels
Simmer strawberries: Chop the strawberries and simmer them with lemon juice and brown sugar for about 10 minutes until softened. Mash them slightly and let cool for a richer flavor.
Blend the beet: In a small blender, combine the chopped beet, 1 tablespoon of water, and granulated sugar. Blend until smooth; this vibrant mixture will add color and a unique twist to your dough.
Activate yeast: In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, dry active yeast, and granulated sugar. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes bubbly and frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
Make the dough: Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and the strawberry-beet mixture to the yeast. Mix until a dough forms, and knead for about 5-7 minutes, adding flour if needed until the dough is smooth and elastic.
First rise: Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This is when the magic begins!
Shape the bagels: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8-10 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and let them rest for 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
Form bagels: Using your finger, poke a hole through the center of each dough ball to create the bagel shape. Place them on parchment squares and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Poach the bagels: In a large pot, bring 8-10 cups of water and cup of brown sugar to a boil. Poach each bagel for 1 minute on each side; this gives them their famous chewy texture before baking.
Bake the bagels: Transfer the poached bagels to a wire rack. Brush with the egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water), then bake in a preheated oven at 415 °F for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Make the cream cheese spread: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, chopped strawberries, vanilla extract, and granulated sugar until well combined and creamy.
Optional: Serve your bagels warm with a generous spread of the strawberry cream cheese for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Bagels are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and shape the bagels up to 24 hours in advance by following the steps up to the second rise. After shaping the bagels, place them on parchment squares, then cover and refrigerate. When you re ready to bake, simply take them out, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and proceed with poaching and baking. To ensure they maintain their delightful texture and flavor, avoid overworking the dough when shaping, and pop them in the oven fresh for delightful results. With this approach, you’ll enjoy homemade Strawberry Bagels with minimal day-of effort!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Bagels
Room Temperature: Store your Strawberry Bagels in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while retaining their delightful flavor and texture.
Fridge: If you want to extend their life, you can refrigerate the bagels for up to 1 week. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in a resealable bag.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your bagels for up to 3 months. Wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: To enjoy your bagels, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350 °F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Enjoy with the delicious strawberry cream cheese spread!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Bagels
Knead Well: Ensure you knead the dough properly for about 5-7 minutes; this develops the gluten, giving your bagels their chewy texture.
Perfect Poaching: Don’t skip the poaching step! This tradition makes your bagels delightfully chewy and is essential for that classic bagel texture.
Monitor the Rise: Keep an eye on your dough during the first rise; if it hasn t doubled within an hour, ensure it s in a warm, draft-free spot.
Color Check: Remember, the beet mixture not only adds color but also moisture. If your dough feels too dry, add a bit more water for the perfect consistency.
Cream Cheese Variation: Feel free to experiment with the cream cheese spread by adding different flavors or herbs to create unique variations for your Strawberry Bagels!
These tips will help you bake the most delightful Strawberry Bagels that your family and friends will rave about!
What to Serve with Strawberry Bagels?
Enjoy a delightful brunch experience with these delicious bagels that will captivate your senses.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the bagels.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered with honey and granola, the creamy tartness of yogurt complements the sweet strawberry flavors beautifully.
Smoky Bacon: The savory crunch of crispy bacon creates a delightful contrast that elevates your bagel experience.
Herb-Infused Cream Cheese: Swap the standard spread for a herb variation think chives or dill for a savory twist that s simply scrumptious.
Iced Herbal Tea: Refreshing and slightly sweet, herbal tea pairs wonderfully with the fruitiness of your bagels, creating a harmonious sip.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of pure maple syrup over the cream cheese spread can take your bagels to new flavor heights with its rich sweetness.
Scones with Clotted Cream: Indulge in scones alongside your bagels an elegant combination that adds a touch of sophistication to your brunch.
Sparkling Water with Mint: A refreshing mix that cleanses the palate and balances the sweet and savory flavors of your meal.
Strawberry Bagels Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize these bagels with your favorite ingredients and flavors!
Whole Wheat: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these bagels suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. This way, everyone can enjoy them!
Fruity Twist: Experiment with different fruits like raspberries or blueberries instead of strawberries for a delightful flavor variation. Each offers a unique taste experience!
Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, fragrant twist that complements the sweetness of the strawberries nicely.
Sweetener Swap: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar for a natural sweetener that brings a unique flavor profile. It s an easy change that adds depth!
Plant-Based: For a vegan option, use almond milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar instead of milk and replace the egg wash with a flax egg. Everyone deserves a taste, right?
Savory Bagels: Reduce the sugar and add herbs like rosemary or garlic powder to create savory bagels that pair beautifully with cream cheese spreads.
Cheesy Delight: Add shredded cheese to the dough or sprinkle on top before baking for an irresistible cheesy bagel that s sure to please!
Embrace your creativity and make these Strawberry Bagels truly your own!
Strawberry Bagels Recipe FAQs
What type of strawberries should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries will impart the best flavor and vibrancy, but if they re out of season, frozen ones work just fine. Make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using.
How should I store leftover Strawberry Bagels?
For optimal freshness, store your Strawberry Bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 1 week.
Can I freeze Strawberry Bagels?
Yes, you can! Just wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven at 350 °F for about 10 minutes.
Why did my bagels not rise?
Very likely, the yeast wasn t activated properly. Ensure you use warm water (not hot!) and allow it to sit with sugar for 5-10 minutes until bubbly. If the yeast is expired, it won t work, so always check those dates!
Can these bagels be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! I recommend using a high-quality gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. However, you may need to adjust the liquid slightly, as gluten-free flours can vary in absorbency.
Is the beet necessary for the recipe?
Not at all! The beet adds color and a subtle earthiness, but if you prefer a lighter bagel or don t have beets on hand, you can simply omit it. The bagels will still be delicious with the strawberry flavor shining through!