Name: Homemade Cheddar Cheese Bagel Bliss You Can't Resist
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 130 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar (Enhances sweetness and activates the yeast.); 1.5 cups Warm Water (110°F - 115°F for yeast activation.); 2.25 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (Ensure it's fresh.); 1 large Egg (For richness and moisture.); 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Can substitute with melted butter.); 4 cups Bread Flour (High protein for a chewy texture.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Accurate measurement is crucial.); 4 cups Water (For poaching.); 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the boiling water.); 1 large Egg (For egg wash.); 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded) (Main flavor component.); Optional Toppings (Consider sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning.)

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The aroma of fresh bagels wafting through a cozy kitchen is an experience unlike any other. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Homemade Cheddar Cheese Bagels, which capture the true essence of a New York-style delicacy right in your own home. These bagels are not just simple to make; they come with the irresistible benefits of being easily customizable and freezer-friendly, perfect for those busy mornings or unexpected brunch guests. Imagine biting into a chewy bagel, with crispy edges and a sharp cheddar flavor that can stand up to your favorite bagel shop’s best. What flavor combination will you try first—a spicy jalapeño twist or a sweet cinnamon raisin surprise? Let’s dive in!

Why are these bagels a must-try?

Homemade Delight: Nothing beats the satisfaction of crafting your own bagels from scratch.

Customizable: You can easily tailor flavors to suit your palate, whether you’re in the mood for jalapeño cheddar or a sweet cinnamon raisin surprise.

Perfect for Freezing: Made too many? No worries! These bagels freeze beautifully, making busy mornings a breeze.

Mouthwatering Flavor: With rich cheddar baked right in, every bite delivers a burst of savory goodness that’s simply irresistible.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: They’re perfect for gatherings, ensuring friends and family will be clamoring for seconds! Serve them warm, alongside your favorite spread, for an unforgettable treat.

Cheddar Cheese Bagel Ingredients

For the Dough
• Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness and activates the yeast for optimal rising.
• Warm Water (110°F – 115°F) – Essential for activating the yeast; room temperature can be used in a pinch.
• Active Dry Yeast – This key ingredient helps the bagels rise, so confirm it’s fresh for a successful batch.
• Large Eggs – Imparts richness and moisture to the dough for delightful texture.
• Vegetable Oil – Adds tenderness; feel free to swap it with melted butter for a richer flavor.
• Bread Flour – High protein ensures a chewy bagel; all-purpose flour won’t give the same results.
• Salt – Elevates flavor; accurate measurement is crucial for proper yeast activation.

For Poaching
• Water (for poaching) – Provides the boiling stage necessary for achieving the bagel’s chewy exterior.
• Granulated Sugar (for poaching) – Sweetens the boiling water and enhances the flavor of your bagels.

For Topping
• Egg (for egg wash) – Creates a golden-brown finish on these cheddar cheese bagels.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded) – Your main flavor agent, giving richness; try Monterey Jack or asiago for variations.
• Optional Toppings – Consider sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning for added flair.

Ready to whip up a batch of irresistible homemade cheddar cheese bagels? Let’s get started!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheddar Cheese Bagel

Step 1: Dissolve Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar with 1 ½ cups of warm water (110°F – 115°F). Sprinkle 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast over the surface and let it stand for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated and ready for your delicious cheddar cheese bagels.

Step 2: Make the Dough
Whisk in 1 large egg and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil into the yeast mixture. Next, add 1 tablespoon of salt and 4 cups of bread flour gradually, mixing until the dough starts to come together. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, perfect for shaping into your wonderful cheddar cheese bagels.

Step 3: Knead and Rise
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes elastic and smooth. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in size, which should take about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 4: Shape Bagels
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 8-10 inches long, then form a circle by pinching the ends together, ensuring they are sealed tightly. This shaping creates the classic bagel look and texture.

Step 5: Prepare Poaching Liquid
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a gentle boil. Add in 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar to the water, stirring until dissolved. This sweetened poaching liquid is crucial for achieving that signature chewy exterior on your cheddar cheese bagels.

Step 6: Boil Bagels
Carefully add the bagels to the boiling water in batches, cooking each bagel for 1 minute on each side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and allow excess water to drain. You’ll notice they puff up slightly, giving a hint of their chewy goodness to come.

Step 7: Add Egg Wash & Toppings
Preheat your oven to 400°F to prepare for baking. Place the boiled bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a glossy finish, then generously sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese and optional toppings like sesame seeds or everything seasoning for extra flavor.

Step 8: Bake
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the cheddar cheese bagels for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist the deliciousness that’s soon to be enjoyed.

Step 9: Cool
Once baked, transfer the cheddar cheese bagels to a wire cooling rack. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before you dive in. This cooling step helps the bagels set perfectly, providing that delightful chewy texture you crave.

How to Store and Freeze Cheddar Cheese Bagels

Room Temperature: Store your homemade cheddar cheese bagels in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, place them in a sealed bag or container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just be aware that they may lose some of their signature texture.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the bagels in zip-top bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy your cheddar cheese bagels at their best, reheat in a toaster or oven until warm and crispy, bringing back that delicious texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Cheddar Cheese Bagels are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the instructions to make the dough, then cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow the dough to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and poaching. Additionally, if you want to save time during busy mornings, you can shape the bagels, boil them, and then freeze them after the egg wash. Just bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time, and you’ll have fresh bagels that are just as delightful as if they were made that day!

What to Serve with Homemade Cheddar Cheese Bagels?

The perfect accompaniments elevate your cheddar cheese bagels from a simple meal to a delightful spread that warms the heart.

Creamy Cream Cheese: Spread on a warm bagel for a classic combination; the creaminess complements the savory cheddar perfectly.
Savory Avocado Smash: The creaminess and richness of avocado provide a nutritious contrast to the bagel’s chewy texture.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A bright, refreshing side bursting with flavor enhances your meal’s light and airy vibe, adding a touch of sweetness.
Smoked Salmon: The saline richness of smoked salmon pairs beautifully with the bagel’s cheese, creating a gourmet experience worthy of any brunch table.
Herbed Butter: Slather on some herb-infused butter; it adds a touch of luxury that takes your bagels to the next level.
Homemade Potato Chips: Crunchy chips provide a satisfying texture contrast, perfect for a cozy snack-time vibe with your bagels.
Mimosa or Bellini: Start your brunch off right with a sparkling drink; the fruity notes complement the cheddar while making the occasion feel special.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For an unexpected dessert, pair these bagels with warm cookies for a sweet finish to your meal.

Now, what delightful combination will you enjoy with your homemade cheddar cheese bagels?

Cheddar Cheese Bagel Variations & Substitutions

Explore the endless possibilities of customizing your homemade cheddar cheese bagels to delight your taste buds!

Jalapeño Cheddar: Add finely grated jalapeño peppers to the dough for a spicy kick. Sprinkle more on top before baking for extra flavor and crunch.
Cinnamon Raisin: Swap in whole wheat flour, increase the sugar, and knead in plump raisins after the first rise for a sweet breakfast twist.
Garlic and Herb: Mix minced garlic and dried herbs like oregano or basil into the dough for a fragrant, savory flavor. Perfect for pairing with spreads!
Smoked Cheddar: Substitute sharp cheddar with smoked cheddar for a deeper, richer taste that gives a fantastic twist to the classic flavor.
Everything Bagel: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top before baking for a delightful crunch and an explosion of flavors with every bite.
Cheddar & Chive: Fold in chopped fresh chives into the dough for a fresh and vibrant onion flavor that elevates the entire bagel experience.
Sundried Tomato & Feta: Incorporate chopped sundried tomatoes and crumbled feta into the dough for a Mediterranean-inspired twist that will impress your guests.
Cheesy Spinach: Add sautéed, wilted spinach and a bit of mozzarella cheese into the mix for a delicious take that’s both decadent and nutritious.

For a variation on your breakfast, consider making some delightful Bagel Breakfast Sliders to serve with your bagels! Or enjoy the sweetness of a Cottage Cheese Raspberry alongside. Whichever way you choose to customize, happy bagel-making!

Helpful Tricks for Cheddar Cheese Bagels

Activate Yeast Properly: Ensure the water is warm (110°F – 115°F) but not hot to keep your yeast happy and active for those perfect cheddar cheese bagels.

Don’t Overflour: It’s easy to add too much flour while kneading. Aim for a soft, manageable dough; extra flour can lead to dense bagels.

Prevent Sticking: If your bagels stick after boiling, dust the parchment with cornmeal or lightly oil it to create a non-stick surface.

Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to play with different types of cheese or spices for a delicious twist on your cheddar cheese bagels.

Cool for Texture: Allow the bagels to cool on a wire rack before serving; this helps achieve that chewy, satisfying texture so loved in homemade bagels.

Cheddar Cheese Bagels Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my yeast is still good?
Absolutely! To test the freshness of your active dry yeast, dissolve 1 teaspoon of sugar in ¼ cup of warm water (110°F – 115°F), then sprinkle 2 ¼ teaspoons of yeast on top. Wait about 10 minutes; if it foams up nicely, your yeast is active and ready to use. If not, it’s time to get a new batch!

How should I store leftover bagels?
You can store your homemade cheddar cheese bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For a longer shelf life, place them in a sealed bag in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember they may lose a bit of their chewiness, so enjoy them sooner rather than later!

Can I freeze cheddar cheese bagels and how?
Definitely! To freeze your cheddar cheese bagels, place them in zip-top bags, ensuring you separate each bagel with a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, just pop them in the toaster or oven until warm and crispy!

What do I do if my bagel dough is too sticky?
Very! If your dough feels too sticky while mixing, add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a soft but manageable consistency. Avoid adding too much flour, though: a spoonful or two should do the trick! Kneading your dough thoroughly can also help it come together better.

Can my pets enjoy cheddar cheese bagels?
While your furry friends might be tempted to snag a bite, it’s essential to keep in mind that bagels contain yeast and gluten, which can be difficult for pets to digest. Additionally, cheddar cheese can be rich for pets, so it’s best to stick to treats designed for them. Always check with your vet if you’re unsure!

What should I do if my bagels don’t rise?
If your bagels aren’t rising well, first check the temperature of the water you used to activate your yeast. It should be warm, not hot. If the yeast was old or expired, that could be the issue. Be sure to let the dough rise in a warm and draft-free environment for optimum results. If it’s been 1.5 hours and it’s still not doubling, the yeast may not have been properly activated.