Fancy Valentine’s Day Bagels

Name: Fancy Valentine’s Day Bagels
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups warm water; Sesame seeds for topping; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; Food coloring (pink); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Food Ideas

I love creating special treats for Valentine’s Day, and these Fancy Valentine’s Day Bagels are my absolute favorite! Shaped like hearts and topped with vibrant pink cream cheese, they bring a touch of romance to breakfast or brunch. With a hint of sweetness from a touch of honey and the delightful crunch of sesame seeds, they are not only visually stunning but also a delicious way to start your day on this lovely holiday.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-15T10:57:29.949Z

When I first made these bagels, I wasn't quite sure how they'd turn out. But after shaping them into hearts and glazing with a sweet cream cheese, I was beyond thrilled with the result. They looked so festive and were the perfect addition to our Valentine’s brunch! The recipe's secret is to utilize a basic bagel dough recipe, which works wonders when flavored with honey.

I learned that letting the bagels rest before baking helps develop their chewy texture while keeping them light and airy. The bright pink cream cheese adds visual appeal, and the sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch. It’s a fun way to surprise my special someone on this day of love!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Unique heart shape adds a romantic touch.
Sweet and creamy pink cream cheese spread.
Perfect for a festive Valentine’s breakfast.

      

Essential Baking Techniques

When making bagels, the key to achieving that chewy, dense texture lies in both the dough preparation and the boiling step. After kneading your dough for a full 10 minutes, it should be smooth and slightly elastic. A well-kneaded dough is crucial as it develops the gluten, which is what gives bagels their unique texture. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but proceed cautiously so as not to make it too dry or tough.

Boiling the bagels before baking is a classic technique that sets them apart from other baked goods. The boiling process helps to gelatinize the outer layer of the dough, producing that characteristic shiny crust we all love. Make sure the water is at a rolling boil and drop the bagels in gently to avoid splashing. Boiling them for exactly one minute on each side will provide the perfect balance between a chewy interior and a crisp exterior.

Flavorful Cream Cheese Variations

While the pink cream cheese topping is a delightful addition, consider experimenting with flavors to customize your bagels. You can add a dash of finely chopped herbs, such as chives or dill, for a refreshing twist. Alternatively, mix in crushed berries like raspberries or strawberries for a fruity flair. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor profile but also add an elegant touch to your Valentine’s spread.

If you're aiming for a lighter option, you can substitute part of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. This swap will not only reduce the calorie content but also add a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the bagels nicely. Just remember to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to taste, as the yogurt can make the spread slightly more sour.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Fancy Valentine’s Day Bagels:

For the Bagels

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups warm water
Sesame seeds for topping

For the Cream Cheese Topping

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
Food coloring (pink)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have everything ready before you start!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Valentine’s Day Bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and honey. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.

Knead for 10 minutes until smooth.

Shape the Bagels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and shape into a heart. Pinch the ends to secure. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment.

Boil and Bake

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Boil each bagel for 1 minute on each side. Remove and place back on the baking sheet.

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes or until golden.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and food coloring. Mix until smooth and spread on cooled bagels.

Enjoy your beautifully crafted Valentine’s Day Bagels!

Pro Tips

For an even more festive touch, consider adding edible glitter to the cream cheese topping.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Fancy Valentine’s Day Bagels can be made ahead of time to save you stress on the big day. After shaping the bagels, you can cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature for about 30 minutes before boiling and baking. This helps them rise a little more, contributing to a lighter texture.

If you have leftover bagels, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze the bagels individually wrapped in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster or oven until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

These heart-shaped bagels are not just visually appealing; they can be served alongside a variety of accompaniments. For a complete Valentine’s breakfast, consider pairing them with fresh fruit like strawberries or a side of yogurt. You can also serve them with flavored butters or jams to enhance the experience even further.

If you want to take things a step further, create a romantic brunch platter with a variety of toppings. Include smoked salmon, capers, and slices of cucumber alongside the cream cheese spread for a savory twist that perfectly contrasts with the sweet bagels. This transforms your breakfast into a delightful feast that sets a special mood for the day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping.

→ What if I don’t have food coloring?

You can use beet juice for a natural pink color.

→ How should I store the leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I use other toppings for the bagels?

Absolutely! Feel free to use poppy seeds, everything seasoning, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.