McDonald’s breakfast bagels were once a popular menu item in the UK, loved for their soft texture and delicious fillings. However, they disappeared from the menu, leaving fans disappointed.
Over the years, speculation about their return has continued, with social media campaigns and customer petitions urging McDonald’s to bring them back.
So, will 2025 be the year that bagels finally make a comeback at McDonald’s UK? Let’s explore the latest updates, rumours, and official statements.
When Did McDonald’s First Introduce Bagels?
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McDonald’s first introduced bagels to its UK menu as part of its breakfast range, offering customers an alternative to the classic McMuffin. These bagels were available in different varieties, such as:
- Bacon, Egg & Cheese Bagel
- Sausage, Egg & Cheese Bagel
- Plain Bagel with butter or jam
For years, they were a breakfast favourite, competing with options from high-street cafés like Greggs and Pret A Manger.
Why Did McDonald’s Remove Bagels from Their Menu?
McDonald’s officially removed bagels from its UK menu in 2020, citing several reasons:
- Menu Streamlining: The company reduced its breakfast options to simplify kitchen operations and improve service speed.
- COVID-19 Pandemic Impact: Changes in dining habits and supply chain issues led to the removal of several items.
- Customer Demand Shift: McDonald’s saw a rise in demand for McMuffins and other breakfast choices, leading to bagels being discontinued.
Despite their removal, many customers continued asking for their return, sparking speculation every year about a possible comeback.
Will McDonald’s Bring Bagels Back in 2025?
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As of early 2025, McDonald’s UK has not officially confirmed the return of bagels. However, there have been hints and growing demand that suggest a possible comeback.
Recent Developments and Speculations
- Social Media Buzz: In late 2024, McDonald’s teased the return of discontinued items, sparking excitement among fans. Many speculated bagels could be among them.
- Customer Petitions: Several online petitions and Twitter (X) discussions have urged McDonald’s to bring back bagels, with thousands of signatures.
- US and Canadian Market Influence: McDonald’s brought back bagels in select US and Canadian locations in 2023. If these prove successful, the UK could follow.
Despite no official announcement yet, McDonald’s has been known to listen to customer feedback, leaving hope for a 2025 return.
What Would the Return of McDonald’s Bagels Mean for Customers?
If McDonald’s bagels return in 2025, customers can expect:
- New and improved recipes: The company may introduce enhanced flavours or upgraded ingredients.
- Limited-time availability: Similar to other returning items, bagels could initially be available for a short period.
- Higher pricing: Due to inflation and supply costs, bagels may return at a slightly higher price compared to when they were last available.
With competition from Starbucks, Greggs, and independent cafés, McDonald’s may need to reintroduce bagels to maintain its breakfast market share.
What Other Changes Have Been Made to McDonald’s UK Menu?
McDonald’s frequently updates its menu based on trends and customer preferences. Some recent UK menu changes include:
- Spicy McNuggets (2024): A limited-time favourite brought back due to high demand.
- McPlant Expansion (2023-2024): More plant-based options were added to cater to vegan customers.
- New Wraps and Salads (2024): Healthier choices introduced as part of McDonald’s commitment to balanced meals.
With ongoing menu adjustments, bagels could fit into McDonald’s evolving breakfast offerings.
Where Else Can You Find Bagels in the UK?
While McDonald’s bagels remain unavailable in early 2025, there are plenty of alternatives:
Fast Food & Café Chains Offering Bagels
- Greggs: Offers bacon, sausage, and cheese bagels.
- Pret A Manger: Serves a variety of bagels, including smoked salmon and cream cheese.
- Starbucks – Provides different bagel options, including cinnamon raisin and multigrain.
Supermarket & Home Alternatives
- Tesco & Sainsbury’s: Pre-packaged bagels from brands like New York Bakery Co.
- Independent Bakeries Many UK bakeries sell fresh bagels with customisable toppings.
For those craving a McDonald’s-style bagel, making one at home with similar ingredients remains an option.
Will Bagels Make a Permanent Comeback at McDonald’s?
While the return of bagels remains uncertain, several factors could influence McDonald’s decision:
- Customer Demand: If enough people show interest, McDonald’s may bring them back.
- Sales Performance in Other Countries: If bagels continue to succeed in the US and Canada, the UK may follow.
- Business Strategy: McDonald’s may focus on other menu innovations instead.
Until an official announcement is made, fans will have to wait and see if 2025 finally brings back this beloved breakfast item.
Final Thoughts
The question “Are bagels coming back to McDonald’s in 2025?” remains unanswered for now. However, with growing customer demand and successful reintroductions in other countries, there is still hope for UK fans.
If McDonald’s listens to feedback, bagels could make a limited-time return or even a permanent comeback in the near future. Until then, customers will have to explore alternatives or keep an eye on McDonald’s official updates.
FAQs
When did McDonald’s remove bagels from the UK menu?
McDonald’s removed bagels from its UK menu in 2020 as part of a menu streamlining effort, largely due to operational changes during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Has McDonald’s confirmed the return of bagels in 2025?
As of early 2025, McDonald’s UK has not confirmed the return of bagels, though speculation continues due to customer demand.
Which McDonald’s locations had bagels before?
Before their removal, bagels were available at most McDonald’s locations across the UK as part of the breakfast menu.
What other breakfast items have been removed from McDonald’s?
Over the years, McDonald’s UK has discontinued items such as the Big Breakfast, Breakfast Wrap, and certain McMuffin variations.
Are there similar breakfast options at McDonald’s now?
Currently, McDonald’s offers McMuffins, pancakes, and porridge, but there is no direct bagel alternative on the UK menu.
Why do fast food chains change their menus frequently?
Fast food chains update their menus based on customer demand, ingredient availability, and operational efficiency.
Can customers request McDonald’s to bring bagels back?
Yes! Customers can request items through McDonald’s social media, customer feedback forms, and petitions, which sometimes influence menu decisions.
Disclaimer
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