Strawberry bagels are a fun twist on your morning bagel! They have a lovely pink hue and a sweet strawberry flavor that makes breakfast special. Perfect for a treat with cream cheese!
These bagels are super easy to make, and they smell amazing while baking. I love to top mine with a bit of butter or some jam. It’s like a fruity hug for your taste buds! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is your go-to for a great texture, but whole wheat flour can be a healthier alternative. Just remember it might need a bit more water since it absorbs more moisture.
Active dry yeast: You can use instant yeast instead, which doesn’t need to be dissolved before adding it to the flour mix. It makes the process a bit quicker!
Chopped strawberries: Fresh strawberries are best for flavor, but feel free to use frozen strawberries if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to reduce excess moisture.
Honey or maple syrup: If you want to skip the sweetener, you can omit it, or opt for agave syrup or stevia based on your preferences. It will still taste delicious!
How Do I Knead Dough Properly?
Kneading is crucial for achieving that perfect bagel texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Dust your surface with a little flour to prevent sticking.
- Place the dough on the surface and press it down with the heel of your hand, then fold it over itself.
- Turn the dough a quarter turn and repeat this motion. Knead for about 8-10 minutes, until it feels smooth and elastic.
Pro tip: If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour. If it’s too dry, lightly wet your hands and continue kneading!
How to Make Strawberry Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bagels:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for slightly sweet dough)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
For The Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp fresh strawberry puree or finely mashed strawberries
- 1-2 tsp lemon juice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 2 hours in total. You’ll need about 15-20 minutes for preparation and kneading, followed by 1 to 1.5 hours for the dough to rise, and another 15-20 minutes for baking. The rest is just a little cooling time and glazing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Stir it lightly and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is alive and ready to work!
2. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast is ready, add the yeast mixture to the flour, along with honey (if you’re using it) and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until a dough begins to form.
3. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth and elastic texture. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
4. Incorporate the Strawberries:
Carefully fold in the chopped strawberries into the dough. Make sure to distribute them evenly but try not to squish them too much!
5. First Rise:
Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it sit in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Shape the Bagels:
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to remove some air. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Shape each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center with your finger and gently stretch it to form a bagel shape.
7. Preheat the Oven:
While you’re shaping the bagels, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
8. Boil the Bagels (Optional):
This step is traditional and helps create a chewy texture. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then boil each bagel for about 30 seconds on each side. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bagels and place them on the baking sheet.
9. Bake the Bagels:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake your bagels for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
10. Prepare the Glaze:
While the bagels are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh strawberry puree, and lemon juice (if using) until smooth. You can adjust the thickness by adding more sugar or puree as needed.
11. Glaze and Serve:
Let the bagels cool for a few minutes after baking. Drizzle the strawberry glaze over the top and add extra fresh strawberry pieces for garnish if you like!
Enjoy your fresh, fruity Strawberry Bagels with a delicious strawberry glaze!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the dough. This will help prevent the dough from becoming too wet.
Can I Make These Bagels Without Yeast?
If you’re looking for a quicker alternative, you can make a baking powder version instead. Replace the yeast with about 1 tablespoon of baking powder and omit the first rise step. The texture will be different, but they will still be tasty!
How to Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing them in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Can I Substitute the Glaze Ingredients?
Absolutely! You can switch the strawberry puree for raspberry or blueberry puree for a different flavor. You can also use a simple milk glaze by combining powdered sugar with milk to your desired consistency if you prefer a less fruity option.