### Homemade Cheddar Bagels Recipe

These homemade Cheddar Bagels are a delightful twist on the classic bagel, featuring a rich, cheesy flavor that makes them perfect for breakfast or a snack. With a chewy texture and golden crust, they are sure to impress your family and friends!

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#### **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)

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#### **Instructions:**

**Preparing the Dough:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Whisk to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
2. Gradually pour in the warm water while stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula. Switch to your hands once the mixture begins to come together. The dough will be sticky at first.
3. Once the dough has formed, add the shredded cheddar cheese and knead the dough in the bowl or on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky.
4. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

**Shaping the Bagels:**
5. Once risen, punch the dough down gently and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into 12 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a ball and poke a hole through the center to form a bagel shape. Ensure the hole is larger than desired as it will shrink during cooking.
7. Place the shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Cover with a towel and let rest for 20-30 minutes.

**Boiling the Bagels:**
8. While resting, bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the baking soda.
9. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
10. Carefully drop the bagels into the boiling water, a few at a time, and boil for about 1 minute on each side. Use a slotted spoon to flip them gently.
11. Remove the bagels from the water and place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.

**Baking the Bagels:**
12. Beat the egg to create an egg wash and brush the tops of each bagel.
13. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown, rotating the baking sheet halfway through.
14. Once baked, let the bagels cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes.

**Serving and Storing:**
15. Slice the bagels and enjoy warm with your favorite spreads, such as cream cheese or butter. They are also great toasted!
16. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

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#### **Notes:**
– For a more intense cheddar flavor, consider using extra sharp cheddar cheese.
– Feel free to experiment with different toppings like everything bagel seasoning or herbs.

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**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 25 minutes
**Total Time:** 1 hour 45 minutes
**Yield:** 12 bagels

Enjoy your delicious homemade Cheddar Bagels!