These bagels are a fun twist on the classic! With a kick from jalapeños and a cheesy flavor from cheddar, they’re perfect for breakfast or a snack.
They’re so easy to make, and the smell of baking bagels is just lovely! I like to enjoy mine with cream cheese for even more yum. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread Flour: This is essential for bagels due to its high protein content, which gives them their chewy texture. If you don’t have bread flour, you can use all-purpose flour, but the texture might be slightly less chewy.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños bring heat and flavor. If you’re looking for a milder option, try using banana peppers or omit the seeds to reduce the spice. For some extra kick, consider serrano peppers!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang and great flavor. You could swap it with pepper jack cheese for more spiciness, or even a milder cheese like Monterey Jack if you prefer!
Baking Soda: This is important for boiling the bagels before baking. It helps create a shiny, chewy crust. Don’t skip it! If you run out, you could use a small amount of baking powder, but the results won’t be quite the same.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Bagel Shape?
Shaping bagels can be tricky, but it’s all about the technique. After letting your dough rise, you’ll want to divide it into equal pieces. Here’s how to shape them:
- Take one piece of dough and roll it into a smooth ball.
- Use your finger to poke a hole in the center. It should be about the size of a quarter, but don’t worry if it shrinks slightly.
- Gently stretch the hole to make it bigger—this helps the bagel maintain its shape during boiling!
- Let the shaped bagels rest for 15 minutes to relax the gluten before boiling.
With practice, you’ll be a bagel-shaping pro in no time!
How to Make Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagel Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups bread flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
For the Flavor:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 2 jalapeños, thinly sliced (seeds included for extra heat)
For Boiling and Brushing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon baking soda (for boiling water)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 2 to 2.5 hours total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes mixing and kneading, then let the dough rise for 1 to 1.5 hours. After shaping, it will take about 30 minutes for boiling and baking. The result is delicious homemade bagels that are spicy and cheesy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, mix together the bread flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Make sure everything is well combined! Gradually pour in the warm water while mixing with a spoon until a rough dough starts to form.
2. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth and elastic texture. Once you’ve achieved that, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the sliced jalapeños, making sure they’re evenly incorporated into the dough.
3. Let the Dough Rise:
Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Now, it’s time to let it rise! Find a warm spot in your kitchen and let the dough rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step is important for fluffy bagels!
4. Shape the Bagels:
Once your dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then poke a hole through the center of each ball with your finger, stretching it slightly to form the bagel shape. Be sure to make the holes a bit larger as they will shrink while resting.
5. Rest the Bagels:
Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rest for 15 minutes. This helps relax the dough before boiling!
6. Preheat and Prepare for Boiling:
While the bagels are resting, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the baking soda. This will create a nice chewy crust on your bagels!
7. Boil the Bagels:
Get ready to boil your bagels! Carefully add them to the boiling water in batches, cooking for 1-2 minutes on each side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and return them to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Add Toppings and Bake:
Sprinkle the tops of the bagels with extra cheddar cheese and the remaining jalapeño slices for an extra kick. If you like, brush them lightly with olive oil for a great flavor. Pop the bagels in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and the cheese is melted.
9. Cool and Enjoy!
Once baked, let the bagels cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy these spicy, cheesy delights fresh out of the oven!
Enjoy your spicy, cheesy, and flavorful Jalapeño Cheddar Bagels!
Can I Use All-Purpose Flour Instead of Bread Flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that bagels made with bread flour will have a chewier texture due to the higher protein content. If you use all-purpose flour, your bagels will still be tasty but may be a bit softer.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want to reduce the heat, you can remove the seeds from the jalapeños before slicing them. For even milder bagels, substitute with a milder pepper like banana peppers or simply reduce the number of jalapeños used.
Can These Bagels Be Frozen?
Absolutely! Once cooled, you can freeze the bagels in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, just pop them in a toaster or oven until warmed through.
What Should I Serve with Jalapeño Cheddar Bagels?
These bagels are delicious on their own, but you can pair them with cream cheese, avocado spread, or your favorite sandwich fillings. They also make a great side for soups and salads!
