Jalapeno Cheddar Bagels
Imagine waking up to the enticing aroma of freshly baked bagels, with a delightful kick from jalapenos and the irresistible richness of cheddar cheese. These Jalapeno Cheddar Bagels are not just a treat for the taste buds; they are an experience. Whether you enjoy them plain, with cream cheese, or as the base for a breakfast sandwich, these bagels are sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the world of bagel-making and discover how to create these savory delights from scratch.
Top Reasons to Make Jalapeno Cheddar Bagels
There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of Jalapeno Cheddar Bagels at home:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy cheddar is nothing short of sensational.
- Customizable: You can adjust the spice level by varying the amount of jalapenos used.
- Freshness Guaranteed: Homemade means you can enjoy your bagels fresh out of the oven, warm and delicious.
- Fun Activity: Bagel-making can be a fun weekend project for families or friends.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These bagels freeze well, so you can enjoy them anytime.
Your Shopping Guide
Before you get started, let’s gather everything you need for these delightful Jalapeno Cheddar Bagels. Here’s a detailed shopping list:
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (one packet)
- 1 1/2 tbsp sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 2 tbsp jalapenos (fresh or canned, diced)
- 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Cooking spray
What’s in the Gear List
Having the right tools is essential for making perfect bagels. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success.
- Wooden Spoon or Dough Hook: To mix the dough.
- Large Pot: For boiling the bagels before baking.
- Baking Sheet: To hold the bagels in the oven.
- Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking.
- Cooling Rack: For letting the bagels cool after baking.
Jalapeno Cheddar Bagels in Steps
Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making these delectable Jalapeno Cheddar Bagels.
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and garlic salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together.
Step 3: Add Jalapenos and Cheese
Once the dough starts to form, add the diced jalapenos and shredded cheddar cheese. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes on a floured surface until it is smooth and elastic.
Step 4: First Rise
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Bagels
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center with your finger and gently stretch it to form a bagel shape.
Step 6: Second Rise
Place the shaped bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 7: Boil the Bagels
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large pot, bring water to a boil, adding the brown sugar. Carefully drop the bagels into the boiling water, cooking them for about 1 minute on each side. This step gives bagels their characteristic chewy texture.
Step 8: Bake the Bagels
Transfer the boiled bagels back to the baking sheet. Lightly spray them with cooking spray and sprinkle with additional cheddar cheese if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or store them for later!
Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions
If you’re missing an ingredient or want to make some adjustments, consider these swaps:
- Flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option.
- Cheese: Substitute with pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
- Jalapenos: If you prefer less heat, use bell peppers instead.
- Sugar: Honey or maple syrup can replace sugar in the dough.
Mistakes Even Pros Make
Even seasoned bakers can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Not letting the yeast activate fully can lead to dense bagels.
- Over-kneading the dough can make bagels tough instead of chewy.
- Skipping the boiling step will result in a bagel that lacks the traditional texture.
- Underbaking the bagels can leave them doughy inside, so keep an eye on them.
Save It for Later
If you find yourself with extra Jalapeno Cheddar Bagels, don’t worry! Here are some tips for storing them:
- Freezing: Place cooled bagels in an airtight bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Toast from frozen or warm them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F.
- Storing: Keep bagels at room temperature in a paper bag for up to 2 days.
Common Qs About Jalapeno Cheddar Bagels
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and boiling.
What can I serve with Jalapeno Cheddar Bagels?
These bagels pair wonderfully with cream cheese, avocado, or even as a base for a breakfast sandwich with eggs and bacon.
How do I know when my bagels are done baking?
Bagels should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. If they are too pale, give them a few more minutes in the oven.
Can I add other toppings to the bagels?
Absolutely! Feel free to sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even everything bagel seasoning on top before baking for extra flavor.
That’s a Wrap
With their spicy jalapeno flavor and gooey cheddar cheese, these Jalapeno Cheddar Bagels are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Making bagels from scratch might seem daunting, but with this straightforward recipe, you’ll be a bagel pro in no time. Whether you enjoy them fresh or save some for later, these bagels are sure to impress family and friends alike. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking! The smell of warm bagels is just around the corner, and you won’t want to miss out on this delicious homemade treat.
Jalapeno Cheddar Bagels
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and garlic salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough begins to come together.
- Add the diced jalapenos and shredded cheddar cheese. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
- Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, divide into 8 equal pieces, roll each into a ball, poke a hole in the center, and stretch into bagel shape.
- Place the bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with a towel, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). In a pot, bring water to a boil, add brown sugar. Carefully drop in bagels, cooking for 1 minute on each side.
- Transfer boiled bagels back to the baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, sprinkle with additional cheddar cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool on a wire rack. Enjoy warm or store for later!
Notes
- These bagels freeze well; store in an airtight bag for up to 3 months.
- Toast from frozen or warm in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.
- For a healthier option, substitute whole wheat flour.
