Introduction

These strawberry bagels are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, infused with natural berry sweetness and a hint of earthy beet for color. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, they come with a creamy strawberry spread that enhances every bite.

A close-up image of four plain purple bagels resting on a white marbled surface, with one bagel cut in half and placed in the front center showing its soft and airy light purple interior with a hole in the middle. To the left side, there are three fresh strawberries with green leaves adding a bright red color to the image. In the blurred background, a white bowl containing a creamy white spread and a glass jar of milk are visible, creating a fresh breakfast setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

⅔ cup warm water
2 tsp dry active yeast
2 tbsp granulated sugar or honey
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 lb strawberries (fresh or frozen)
1 tsp lemon juice
2 tbsp brown sugar
½ beet, chopped
1 tbsp water
8–10 cups water (for poaching)
⅓ cup brown sugar (for poaching)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
⅓ cup strawberries, chopped
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp granulated sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Chop the strawberries and simmer them with lemon juice and brown sugar until softened. Mash slightly and let the mixture cool.
Step 2: Blend the chopped beet with 1 tablespoon of water and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar until smooth to create a natural coloring mixture.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, dry yeast, and granulated sugar or honey. Let it sit until the mixture becomes bubbly, about 5-10 minutes.
Step 4: Add the flour, salt, cooled strawberry mixture, and beet blend to the yeast mixture. Mix and knead until a smooth dough forms, adding more flour if necessary.
Step 5: Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Divide the dough into 8 to 10 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and let rest for 30 minutes on parchment paper squares.
Step 7: Punch holes through the center of each dough ball to form bagels. Let them rise again for 30 minutes.
Step 8: Heat 8 to 10 cups of water with ⅓ cup brown sugar in a large pot until boiling. Poach the bagels, 1 minute per side, then remove and place on a rack.
Step 9: Whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon of water to make an egg wash. Brush it over each bagel.
Step 10: Bake the bagels at 415°F (210°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 11: Meanwhile, mix the softened cream cheese with chopped strawberries, vanilla extract, and granulated sugar to create a strawberry spread.
Step 12: Allow the bagels to cool slightly before serving with the strawberry cream cheese spread.

Tips & Variations

Use frozen strawberries if fresh aren’t available; just thaw and drain excess juice before simmering.
For a more intense color, add a little extra beet puree to the dough.
Try substituting honey for granulated sugar to add a floral sweetness.
Toast leftover bagels before serving to refresh their texture and flavor.

Storage

Store the bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Reheat by toasting or warming in the oven for best results.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a strawberry bagel cut in half with a soft, fluffy inside that has a light pinkish tone and air holes throughout, surrounded by whole strawberry bagels with smooth, slightly shiny pinkish-brown crusts. Next to the bagels, several fresh, bright red strawberries with green tops add a pop of color. In the background, a white bowl of cream cheese and a jar of milk are slightly out of focus. All the items rest on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the dough and spread?

Yes, frozen strawberries are a good substitute. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture.

What if I don’t have beets? Can I skip them?

Beets add natural color and a subtle earthiness, but you can skip them if needed. The bagels will still taste great without them, though the color will be less vibrant.