These Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Bagels are the perfect mix of heat and cheesy goodness! With chunks of jalapeño and melted cheddar mixed right in, every bite is a flavor party.
I love to toast them and spread a little butter on top. Trust me, you’ll be tempted to eat them all at once! 😄 They’re great for breakfast or a tasty snack anytime.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread Flour: This recipe calls for bread flour because it has a higher protein content, giving the bagels a nice chewy texture. If you don’t have bread flour, you can use all-purpose flour, but the texture might be a bit less chewy.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Using sharp cheddar for its pronounced flavor is key. If you’re looking for something milder, you can opt for medium cheddar or even pepper jack for extra heat!
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños give the perfect kick. If they’re too spicy for you, consider using green bell peppers or even roasted red peppers for a different taste without the heat.
Honey: Honey adds a hint of sweetness to the boiling water, enhancing the bagels’ color and flavor. You could substitute with sugar or agave syrup if needed.
How Do I Ensure My Bagels Have the Right Texture?
The boiling step is essential for getting that signature chewy bagel texture. Boiling the bagels before baking helps set the exterior while keeping the inside tender. Here’s what to do:
- Bring water to a full boil and add honey. This will flavor the bagels.
- Boil the bagels for about 1 minute on each side. Don’t overcrowd the pot; boil in batches if necessary.
- After boiling, place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet while they are still wet – this helps the toppings stick better!
Remember to watch them closely while baking to avoid over-browning, and let them cool on a wire rack – this helps them finish cooking evenly!
How to Make Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Bagels!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagel Dough:
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for dough)
For the Flavor:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
- 2-3 jalapeños, seeds removed and finely chopped (reserve some slices for topping)
For Boiling:
- 1 tbsp honey (for boiling water)
Optional Toppings:
- Poppy seeds or coarse salt (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 1 ½ hours for the dough to rise and 15-20 minutes for baking. Altogether, you should set aside about 2 hours for making these delicious bagels!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the bread flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Make sure everything is well combined. Then, pour in the warm water and olive oil. Stir until you get a rough dough that starts to come together.
2. Knead It Out:
On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes. You want it to become smooth and elastic. Kneading helps develop the gluten, which gives bagels their chewy texture!
3. Add Flavor:
With the dough ready, fold in the finely chopped jalapeños and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix it well, so the cheese and jalapeños are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
4. Let It Rise:
Place your dough in an oiled bowl and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size. This helps the bagels become fluffy!
5. Shape the Bagels:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, then use your finger to poke a hole through the center. Gently stretch the hole to form the bagel shape.
6. Rest the Shaped Bagels:
Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them rest for an additional 15 minutes while you preheat the oven.
7. Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s nice and hot when your bagels are ready to bake.
8. Boil the Bagels:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add honey into the pot. This step is crucial for getting that perfect bagel texture. Boil the bagels in batches, about 1 minute on each side, then remove them with a slotted spoon and place them back on the baking sheet.
9. Add Toppings:
While still wet from boiling, sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese on top of each bagel and place the reserved jalapeño slices on top. If you like, you can also add poppy seeds or coarse salt for extra flavor!
10. Bake and Enjoy:
Bake the bagels in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.
Now, enjoy your spicy, cheesy, and flavorful Jalapeño Cheddar Bagels! Perfect for breakfast or a tasty snack!
Can I Use Fresh or Pickled Jalapeños?
Absolutely! Fresh jalapeños will give your bagels a nice kick, but if you prefer milder flavors, you can use pickled jalapeños instead. Just chop them finely and adjust the amount to your spice tolerance.
How Should I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature and reheat in the oven for that fresh-baked taste!
Can I Substitute Gluten-Free Flour?
You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these bagels gluten-free, but be aware that the texture may change slightly. Ensure the flour blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately for the best results.
What Toppings Can I Use?
Besides cheddar cheese, feel free to get creative! Some delicious alternatives include everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or even a sprinkle of chopped chives for added flavor.
