Cheddar Cheese Bagels: The Ultimate Recipe for a Delicious Breakfast Treat

Cheddar Cheese Bagels are a delightful twist on the classic bagel that brings a burst of flavor to your breakfast or snack time. Imagine biting into a warm, chewy bagel, only to discover the rich, savory taste of melted cheddar cheese woven throughout. This recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also pays homage to the traditional bagel-making techniques that have been cherished for centuries. Originating from Eastern European Jewish communities, bagels have evolved into a beloved staple in many cultures, and adding cheddar cheese elevates this beloved treat to new heights.

People adore Cheddar Cheese Bagels for their perfect balance of taste and texture. The combination of the crispy exterior and the soft, cheesy interior creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Plus, they are incredibly convenient to make at home, allowing you to enjoy fresh bagels straight from your oven. Whether you enjoy them plain, with a smear of cream cheese, or topped with your favorite spreads, these bagels are sure to become a favorite in your household. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe and discover the joy of making Cheddar Cheese Bagels from scratch!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon baking soda
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. I like to whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed. This step is crucial because it helps the yeast activate properly when we add the water. 2. Gradually pour in the warm water while stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula. I usually start with a spoon and then switch to my hands once the mixture begins to come together. The dough will be sticky at first, but that’s perfectly normal. 3. Once the dough has formed, add in the shredded cheddar cheese. I find that mixing in the cheese at this stage allows it to be evenly distributed throughout the bagels. Knead the dough in the bowl or on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. 4. After kneading, shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. I usually turn on my oven to the lowest setting for a few minutes, then turn it off and place the dough inside to rise.

Shaping the Bagels

5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. I like to use a bench scraper for this, as it makes cutting the dough much easier. 6. Take each piece of dough and roll it into a ball. Then, using your finger, poke a hole through the center of each ball to form a bagel shape. I usually rotate the dough ball as I poke to ensure the hole is even and large enough. The hole will shrink a bit during cooking, so make sure it’s a little larger than you want the final bagel to be. 7. Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each bagel, as they will expand slightly during the next rise. Cover them with a towel and let them rest for about 20-30 minutes.

Boiling the Bagels

8. While the bagels are resting, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the baking soda. This step is essential as it helps create that chewy bagel texture we all love. 9. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). 10. Carefully drop the bagels into the boiling water, a few at a time, depending on the size of your pot. Boil each bagel for about 1 minute on each side. I like to use a slotted spoon to flip them over gently. This boiling process helps set the bagel’s crust. 11. After boiling, remove the bagels from the water and place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. If you want to add sesame or poppy seeds, now is the time to sprinkle them on top.

Baking the Bagels

12. In a small bowl, beat the egg to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of each bagel with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden color when baked. 13. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bagels are golden brown. I like to rotate the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even baking. 14. Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This cooling period allows the bagels to set properly and makes them easier to slice.

Serving and Storing

15. After cooling, you can slice the bagels and enjoy them warm with your favorite spreads, such as cream cheese, butter, or even more cheddar cheese. They are also fantastic toasted! 16. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer

Conclusion:

In summary, these Cheddar Cheese Bagels are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their breakfast or snack game. The combination of chewy bagel texture and rich, savory cheddar creates a delightful experience that is hard to resist. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven, toasted with a smear of cream cheese, or topped with avocado and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning, the possibilities are endless. You can even experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile. I encourage you to give this recipe a go and share your experience with friends and family. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why these Cheddar Cheese Bagels are a hit! Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag me on social media; I’d love to see how your bagels turn out. Happy baking!

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