Name: Mouthwatering Cheddar Cheese Bagel Recipe You’ll Love
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 140 min
Ingredients: 1 tsp granulated sugar (Fuels the yeast activation; consider using honey or agave for a natural alternative.); 1 cup warm water (Essential for hydrating and activating the yeast; avoid using hot water.); 1 tbsp active dry yeast (The key leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.); 2 large eggs (Adds richness and strength to the dough; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan twist.); 1 tbsp vegetable oil (Moisturizes the dough; melted butter can enhance the flavor.); 3.5 cups bread flour (Creates that beloved chewy texture; all-purpose flour is softer.); 2 tbsp granulated sugar (Introduces a touch of sweetness; brown sugar works for a deeper flavor.); 1 tsp salt (Enhances flavor while strengthening gluten structure; crucial for the dough.); 16 cups water (Necessary for poaching, giving bagels their classic texture.); 1.5 tbsp granulated sugar (Sweetens the poaching liquid; no need for substitutes.); 1 large egg (Provides a beautiful shiny finish; can be omitted for an egg-free version.); 1 tsp water (Thin out the egg for a smoother application on bagels.); 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (Adds rich flavor; experiment with other cheeses for variety.)

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As I sunk my teeth into a warm, freshly baked bagel, the delightful crunch gave way to a chewy, cheesy interior that took me straight to the heart of a New York bagel shop. This Homemade Cheddar Cheese Bagel recipe not only recreates that quintessential taste, but it also allows you to customize it to your heart’s content, from spicy jalapeño cheddar to a tempting cinnamon raisin twist. With its quick prep time and freezer-friendly nature, this recipe is a game-changer for your breakfast or brunch table. So, are you ready to turn your kitchen into a bagel paradise?

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Why choose homemade Cheddar Cheese Bagels?

Homemade goodness: There’s something undeniably special about crafting your own bagels in the comfort of your kitchen.

Endless customization: Whether you fancy a kick of spice with jalapeño cheddar or a sweet twist with cinnamon raisin, the choice is yours!

Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers will shine in their culinary skills.

Perfect for freezing: Bake a batch and enjoy them fresh or freeze to have delicious bagels on hand anytime—just pop them in the toaster!

Crowd-pleaser: These bagels are sure to impress family and friends, making them a perfect choice for gatherings or cozy brunches.

For a truly delightful spread, pair your bagels with cream cheese or try them with my Peach Cream Cheese for an extra layer of flavor!

Cheddar Cheese Bagel Ingredients

• Everything you need for cheesy perfection.

For the Dough

1 tsp. granulated sugar – Fuels the yeast activation; consider using honey or agave for a natural alternative.
1 cup warm water (110°F – 115°F) – Essential for hydrating and activating the yeast; avoid using hot water to keep the yeast alive.
1 tbsp. active dry yeast – The key leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
2 large eggs – Adds richness and strength to the dough; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan twist.
1 tbsp. vegetable oil – Moisturizes the dough; melted butter can enhance the flavor even more.
3 1/2 cups bread flour – Creates that beloved chewy texture in bagels; all-purpose flour is an option but results in a softer bagel.
2 tbsp. granulated sugar (for dough) – Introduces a touch of sweetness; brown sugar works well if you prefer a deeper flavor.
1 tsp. salt – Enhances flavor while strengthening gluten structure; it’s crucial for the dough.

For Poaching

16 cups water – Necessary for poaching, giving bagels their classic texture before baking; don’t skip this step!
1 1/2 tbsp. granulated sugar (for poaching) – Sweetens the poaching liquid, enhancing flavor; no need for substitutes.

For Egg Wash

1 large egg – Provides a beautiful shiny finish; can be omitted for an egg-free version.
1 tsp. water – Thin out the egg for a smoother application on bagels.

For the Toppings

1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – Adds rich flavor and texture; feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or asiago for variety.

These Cheddar Cheese Bagel ingredients come together to create delicious bagels that bring the experience of a New York deli right into your kitchen. Enjoy this culinary journey!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheddar Cheese Bagel

Step 1: Dissolve Yeast
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (110°F – 115°F) with 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast on top and allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes frothy and bubbly, signaling that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic in your Cheddar Cheese Bagel dough.

Step 2: Prepare Dough
Once the yeast mixture is frothy, whisk in 2 large eggs and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil until well combined. Gradually stir in 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of salt. Begin adding 3 1/2 cups of bread flour, a little at a time, stirring until a smooth dough forms. Then, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it’s elastic and slightly tacky, perfect for bagel-making.

Step 3: First Rise
Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm spot until it has doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours. This step is crucial, as it develops the flavor and texture of your homemade Cheddar Cheese Bagels.

Step 4: Shape Bagels
After the first rise, gently punch down the dough to release the air bubbles. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a rope about 6 inches long. Join the ends to form a bagel shape, ensuring to seal them well. Let the shaped bagels rest on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for about 15 minutes, allowing them to rise slightly.

Step 5: Poach Bagels
In a large pot, bring 16 cups of water to a gentle boil, adding 1.5 tablespoons of granulated sugar for flavor. Carefully add 4 bagels at a time to the boiling water and poach each side for about 1 minute. Watch for a slight puff and a glossy appearance, signaling that they are ready to be removed with a slotted spoon. Transfer the poached bagels back to the baking sheet.

Step 6: Add Egg Wash and Toppings
Preheat your oven to 400°F while the bagels cool slightly. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of water for the egg wash. Brush the tops of each bagel with the egg wash, ensuring an even coat for that shiny finish. Generously sprinkle 1.5 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top, or get creative with other toppings if desired.

Step 7: Bake
Place the bagels in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. You’ll know they’re done when the cheese is bubbly and the bagels are firm to the touch. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on wire racks, holding back the delicious aroma of your homemade Cheddar Cheese Bagels.

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What to Serve with Homemade Cheddar Cheese Bagels?

Create a delightful breakfast spread that will tantalize your taste buds with these delectable pairings.

Creamy Cream Cheese: A classic choice, smooth cream cheese enhances the bagel’s cheesy flavor while adding a rich, creamy texture.
Fresh Sliced Tomatoes: Juicy tomatoes bring a burst of freshness and acidity that perfectly balances the richness of cheddar.
Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon contrasts beautifully with the chewy bagel, making every bite a savory delight.
Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of fresh fruits adds a sweet and refreshing element, balancing the savory notes of the bagels.
Herbed Butter: Whip up a simple herbed butter for spreading; the aromatic herbs elevate your bagel experience to gourmet levels.
Chilled Sparkling Water: For a refreshing drink option, serve sparkling water with a splash of lemon. It cleanses the palate and complements the hearty bagels.
Sweet Cinnamon Raisin Variants: For those with a sweet tooth, cinnamon-raisin bagels are a delightful and whimsical twist that pairs well with coffee for brunch.

These pairings together create a symphony of flavors, allowing your homemade cheddar cheese bagels to truly shine at the breakfast table!

Expert Tips for Cheddar Cheese Bagels

Fresh Yeast Matters: Ensure your active dry yeast is fresh and not expired; a frothy mixture after proofing is key for perfect Cheddar Cheese Bagels.
Proper Water Temperature: Use warm water between 110°F and 115°F; too hot will kill the yeast, while too cold won’t activate it properly.
Don’t Skimp on Bread Flour: Opt for bread flour for a chewy texture; all-purpose flour creates a softer bagel, deviating from that classic chewiness.
Avoid Overcrowding: When poaching bagels, do them in batches of four to prevent sticking and ensure they cook evenly.
Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to play with cheese varieties and spices; customizing each batch makes your Cheddar Cheese Bagels uniquely yours!

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Cheddar Cheese Bagels are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh bagels at your convenience! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the steps until the first rise, then cover and refrigerate the bowl. This slow rise will enhance the flavor of the bagels! Additionally, you can shape the bagels and refrigerate them overnight before poaching. When ready to serve, just poach and bake as directed; the results will be just as delicious! For longer storage, these bagels freeze well for up to 3 months—simply toast them straight from the freezer for a quick breakfast treat!

How to Store and Freeze Cheddar Cheese Bagels

Room Temperature: Store bagels in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature to maintain freshness and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week; however, be aware that this may slightly alter the texture.

Freezer: Freeze bagels in zip-top bags for up to 3 months. To enjoy, toast them directly from frozen for that freshly baked flavor.

Reheating: For the best results, heat bagels in a toaster or oven until warmed through and the cheese is slightly melted, about 5-7 minutes at 350°F.

Cheddar Cheese Bagel Variations

Unlock a world of delightful twists and flavor enhancements for your cheddar cheese bagels!

Jalapeño Cheddar: Add 100g finely grated jalapeño to the dough and sprinkle some on top before baking for a spicy kick. Who doesn’t love that zesty burst of heat?
Cinnamon Raisin: For a sweet option, swap 1 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour with 2 1/2 cups of bread flour. Mix in 2 1/2 tsp. cinnamon and 1 cup of raisins for a delightful breakfast treat.
Garlic & Herb: Fold in 2 tbsp. minced garlic and your favorite dried herbs, like rosemary or thyme, into the dough for a fragrant, savory bagel. These are perfect for pairing with cream cheese or dipping into soup!
Smoky Paprika: Add 2 tsp. of smoked paprika to the dough for a subtle smoky flavor that dances on your palate. This twist pairs beautifully with a spread of avocado or hummus.
Cheddar & Bacon: Mix in some crumbled cooked bacon into the dough for a decadent, savory addition. The bacon pairs perfectly with the cheese, turning breakfast into a feast.
Everything Bagel Topping: Before baking, sprinkle bagel seasoning or a mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, onion flakes, and garlic powder on top for an everything bagel experience. It’s loaded with flavors that will satisfy any craving!
Savory Spinach Feta: Incorporate 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach and 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese into your dough for a Mediterranean twist. This combination balances the cheesy flavor with vibrant greens wonderfully!
Cream Cheese Stuffing: Create a pocket in the dough and fill it with sweetened cream cheese before shaping into bagels. Baked to golden perfection, you’ll savor a lovely creamy surprise with every bite!

Explore these variations to turn each batch of cheddar cheese bagels into something new and exciting. For more tasty ideas, why not check out my Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese or indulge in some Cottage Cheese Chips? Customize, enjoy, and let your creativity flow in the kitchen!

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Cheddar Cheese Bagel Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my yeast is fresh?
To determine if your yeast is fresh, mix the warm water and sugar as directed in the recipe, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. If it becomes frothy and bubbly, your yeast is active and ready to use! If there’s no foam, it’s best to get a new packet.

What’s the best way to store my bagels?
Store your bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week, although this may slightly change their texture. The ideal method, however, is freezing them in zip-top bags for up to 3 months—you can toast them from frozen for a quick breakfast delight!

Can these bagels be frozen? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your homemade Cheddar Cheese Bagels, wait until they are completely cool after baking. Once cooled, place them in zip-top freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply toast them directly from frozen for the best flavor and texture!

Why did my bagels turn out too dense?
If your bagels are denser than desired, it could be due to a few factors. Firstly, ensure that you’re using bread flour, as it provides the necessary chewiness. Secondly, make sure not to rush the rising process; the dough should double in size. Finally, knead the dough thoroughly—this develops gluten, which is essential for light and airy bagels.

Can I substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Yes! For a dairy-free option, feel free to substitute the sharp cheddar cheese with vegan cheese. If you need an egg replacement, use flax eggs, combining 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. These alternatives maintain the delightful flavors and textures of your Cheddar Cheese Bagels while accommodating dietary needs.