Strawberry bagels are a tasty treat that combines soft, chewy bagels with delicious strawberry flavor. They’re perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Spread some cream cheese on top, and you’ll feel like you’re in a cozy café. I can’t resist adding fresh strawberries too—it’s like a berry party in every bite! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for the bagels. You can swap it with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, but the texture will differ slightly. Be prepared for a denser bagel.
Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mixing regular milk with lemon juice works well. It’s a clever trick to add acidity which helps with the bagels’ rise.
Fresh Strawberries: While fresh strawberries work best for flavor and texture, frozen strawberries can be a substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.
Cinnamon: This optional ingredient adds warmth to the bagels. If you’re not a cinnamon fan, feel free to leave it out or substitute it with a touch of nutmeg for a different flavor twist.
How Do I Shape Bagels Without Making a Mess?
Shaping bagels can be tricky but with a few tips, you can do it smoothly! Start with a lightly floured surface and use floured hands to avoid sticking. Here’s how:
- After dividing the dough, roll each portion into a tight ball.
- Use your finger to poke a hole in the center, expanding it gently with your fingers to form the bagel shape.
- Try to keep the hole about 1-2 inches so it doesn’t close up while baking.
Remember, it’s okay if they aren’t perfect! Each bagel will have its own unique shape, adding to the charm of homemade baking.
How to Make Strawberry Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bagels:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice, let sit 5 mins)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced (plus extra for decorating)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional, for slight flavor)
For The Strawberry Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
For Garnish:
- Fresh strawberry pieces
- Small edible seeds or puffed grains (optional)
- Small fresh mint leaves (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires a total of about 30-35 minutes. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes prepping and mixing the ingredients, and then about 15-18 minutes baking the bagels. Don’t forget a little extra time to let them cool and set before you dive in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent your bagels from sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and cinnamon (if you’re using it). This helps to evenly distribute those dry ingredients and gives your bagels a great flavor.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
Now, add the buttermilk and vanilla extract to your dry ingredients. Stir gently until you have a soft dough—that’s your key to fluffy bagels!
4. Fold in Strawberries
Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries. Take your time so they spread evenly without getting squished too much. The goal is to have bursts of strawberry goodness in every bite!
5. Shape the Bagels
Lightly flour your hands and a clean workspace. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions. Shape each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your finger, gently stretching it to form that classic bagel shape.
6. Bake the Bagels
Place the shaped bagels on your prepared baking sheet and pop them in the oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen smells amazing!
7. Make the Strawberry Glaze
While the bagels are baking, prepare your glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, strawberry puree, and lemon juice until it’s nice and smooth. It should have a slightly runny consistency that’s perfect for drizzling.
8. Glaze the Bagels
Once your bagels have cooled enough to handle but are still warm, brush or drizzle the strawberry glaze over each one. The glaze will give them a lovely, sweet finish!
9. Garnish and Serve
For a fun touch, garnish your glazed bagels with fresh strawberry pieces, edible seeds or puffed grains, and small mint leaves, if you’d like. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.
Now, dig in and enjoy your delightful homemade strawberry bagels!
Can I Use Different Types of Flour for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, but keep in mind that this will result in a denser bagel. If you prefer a gluten-free option, gluten-free all-purpose flour can also work, just make sure it has a binding agent like xanthan gum.
Can I Replace Fresh Strawberries with Frozen Ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess moisture before adding them to the dough. This helps avoid sogginess in your bagels.
How Should I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Just thaw and warm them up in the oven before serving!
What Other Toppings Can I Use for the Bagels?
You can get creative with toppings! Try adding a sprinkle of chia seeds, sunflower seeds, or even a drizzle of honey. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also give a unique flavor twist if you’re feeling adventurous!
