These Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Bagels are a tasty treat! With spicy jalapeños and gooey cheddar baked right in, they’re perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Honestly, the kick from the jalapeños and the cheesy goodness is a winning combo. Sometimes I like to add a little cream cheese—yum! Who’s joining me for breakfast? 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is crucial for bagel rise. If you can’t find active dry yeast, you can use instant yeast instead—just add it directly to the flour without activating it first.
Warm Water: The temperature is important for yeast activation. If you don’t have a thermometer, use your wrist to test it; it should feel warm but not hot. Substitute with milk for a richer flavor if desired!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but feel free to mix it with pepper jack for extra spice! If you need a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese that melts well.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños provide great heat. For less spice, use roasted red peppers or sweet bell peppers. Pickled jalapeños can also add a tangy kick.
Olive Oil: This is optional for brushing. You could use melted butter for a richer taste or omit it entirely if you prefer a lighter bagel.
How Do I Get My Bagels the Perfect Chewy Texture?
Boiling the bagels is the key to achieving that iconic chewy texture. It helps create the crust. Don’t skip this step!
- Bring water to a rolling boil, then add baking soda. This creates a nice sheen on the bagels too.
- Boil each bagel for 1 minute on each side. This helps them firm up.
- After boiling, let them drain on the slotted spoon before placing them back on the baking sheet.
Timing is everything here. Boil them in small batches, so you can keep an eye on them! Enjoy the process, and you’ll see your bagels become beautifully chewy.
How to Make Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Bagel Dough:
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 2-3 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (plus extra slices for topping)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for brushing)
- 1 tbsp baking soda (for boiling water)
- Water (for boiling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 1 hour for the first rise, 30 minutes for the second rise, and then around 30 minutes for boiling and baking. So, set aside about 2 hours to enjoy the whole process from mixing to tasting your spicy bagels!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate Yeast:
In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast together. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s frothy and bubbly on top – that’s the yeast waking up!
2. Make Dough:
In a larger bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Then, pour the yeast mixture into the bowl and stir it all together until it forms a dough. Don’t worry if it seems a little sticky!
3. Add Jalapeños and Cheese:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. You want it to be smooth and elastic. As you knead, mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and those sliced jalapeños so they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
4. First Rise:
Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and set it in a warm spot. Let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it’s doubled in size. This is when it gets nice and fluffy!
5. Shape Bagels:
Once it’s risen, punch down the dough to release the air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then use your finger to poke a hole through the center to form a bagel. Gently stretch that hole to about 2 inches wide.
6. Second Rise:
Place your shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them again and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes. They’ll puff up a bit more during this time.
7. Preheat Oven and Prepare Boiling Water:
While they’re rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large pot, get some water boiling and stir in the baking soda. This is what will give your bagels their classic chewy texture!
8. Boil Bagels:
Carefully drop each bagel into the boiling water and let them boil for about 1 minute on each side. Use a slotted spoon to take them out and place them back on the baking sheet after boiling. This step is key to achieve that bagel goodness!
9. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the bagels. Feel free to add those extra jalapeño slices on top too for a nice visual and flavor kick!
10. Bake:
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
11. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This helps them stay crisp on the outside. Then, enjoy your spicy, cheesy homemade jalapeño cheddar bagels!
Enjoy your fresh bagels warm or toasted, perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of Bread Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture might be a bit denser. To keep it light, try mixing whole wheat flour with bread flour in a 50/50 ratio. You may need to add a little extra water to get the right consistency.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer milder bagels, simply reduce the number of jalapeños you add. You could also remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before slicing to minimize the heat. Alternatively, consider using sweet peppers instead!
Can I Freeze the Bagels After Baking?
Absolutely! Once the bagels are completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, just thaw and warm them in the oven or toaster.
What Can I Serve These Bagels With?
These bagels are perfect on their own, but you can enhance them by serving with cream cheese, avocado spread, or even eggs. They also make a great base for breakfast sandwiches!
