There’s nothing quite like biting into a freshly baked blueberry bagel. The chewy texture, the golden crust, and those sweet bursts of juicy blueberries—it’s pure breakfast perfection. Trust me, once you make these at home, store-bought bagels just won’t cut it anymore!
This recipe is incredibly simple, and the best part? You don’t need to be a baking pro to pull it off. These homemade blueberry bagels are soft on the inside, have a satisfying chew, and are packed with the perfect balance of sweetness. Whether you enjoy them with cream cheese, butter, or just plain, they’re a game-changer for breakfast lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Blueberry Bagel Recipe
- Soft, chewy & bakery-style: Get that perfect texture without leaving your kitchen.
- Loaded with blueberries: Every bite has sweet, juicy bursts of flavor.
- Easy to make: No fancy equipment required, just basic ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch and enjoy them all week!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious blueberry bagels. Be sure to check the recipe card below for exact measurements!
- All-purpose flour – The base for that classic bagel texture.
- Instant yeast – Helps the dough rise perfectly.
- Sugar – Slightly sweetens the bagels and activates the yeast.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough.
- Warm water – Helps activate the yeast and hydrate the dough.
- Fresh or dried blueberries – Bursts of sweetness in every bite.
- Honey – For a touch of natural sweetness in the boiling water.
💡 Pro Tip: If using dried blueberries, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the dough. This keeps them juicy and prevents them from absorbing too much moisture from the dough.
How to Make Blueberry Bagels
Phase 1: Preparing the Dough
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top, stir gently, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and knead until a rough dough forms.
- Add the blueberries: Gently fold in the blueberries, making sure they are evenly distributed.
- Knead & rise: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Phase 2: Shaping & Boiling the Bagels
- Divide the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and divide it into 8 equal portions.
- Shape the bagels: Roll each portion into a ball, then use your thumb to poke a hole in the center. Gently stretch the hole to form a bagel shape.
- Let them rest: Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover with a clean towel. Let them rest for about 15 minutes while you prepare the boiling water.
- Boil the bagels: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add honey (this gives the bagels a beautiful golden crust). Carefully drop in 2-3 bagels at a time, boiling for 30-45 seconds per side.
- Drain & prepare for baking: Remove bagels with a slotted spoon and place them back onto the baking sheet.
Phase 3: Baking & Serving
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to fully preheat.
- Bake until golden: Place the bagels in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and have a firm crust.
- Cool & enjoy: Let the bagels cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Blueberry Bagels
- ⭐ Use fresh blueberries for the juiciest flavor. If using dried, soak them first!
- ⭐ Don’t skip the boiling step! It gives the bagels their signature chewiness.
- ⭐ For extra crispiness: Bake an extra 2-3 minutes if you prefer a crunchier crust.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the kneading: Not kneading enough can lead to dense bagels.
- Overcrowding while boiling: Boil just a few at a time to prevent sticking.
- Not preheating the oven: A hot oven ensures a perfect crust!
Recipe Variations
- Cinnamon Blueberry Bagels: Add 1 tsp of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Whole Wheat Blueberry Bagels: Swap half the flour for whole wheat for a healthier twist.
- Vegan Blueberry Bagels: Use maple syrup instead of honey in the boiling water.
How to Serve Blueberry Bagels
- Best Pairings: Enjoy with cream cheese, butter, or a drizzle of honey.
- Toppings & Garnishes: Try cinnamon sugar, almond butter, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
- Drink Pairing: Pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or a berry smoothie.
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
✔️ Yes! Make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate overnight before shaping and baking.
Storing Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezing
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Oven: Warm at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
- Toaster: Toast for a quick and crispy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes! Just toss them in a little flour before adding to the dough to prevent excess moisture.
Why do my bagels feel dense?
Make sure to knead the dough well and allow enough rising time for a light texture.
Can I make these gluten-free?
You can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour, but results may vary.
Do I have to boil them?
Yes! Boiling is key to getting that classic bagel chew and golden crust.
Homemade blueberry bagels are easier than you think, and the results are absolutely worth it! Soft, chewy, and bursting with juicy blueberries, they make the perfect breakfast or snack. Whether you enjoy them plain, toasted, or with your favorite spread, these bagels will quickly become a household favorite. So go ahead, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
Blueberry Bagel
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Large Pot
Ingredients
Bagel Dough
- 1 cup warm water about 110°F (43°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 3 cups bread flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
Boiling Water Bath
- 8 cups water
- 2 tbsp honey for slight sweetness
- 1 egg wash 1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
- Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to burst them too much.
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, then poke a hole in the center to form a bagel shape.
- Let the shaped bagels rest for 15 minutes while you prepare the boiling water bath.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add honey. Boil each bagel for 45 seconds per side, then remove and place on a baking sheet.
- Brush each bagel with egg wash, then bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.