Irresistibly Creamy Bacon & Cheddar Bagels Recipe

If you’re craving a breakfast treat that’s packed with flavor and creamy indulgence, these bacon cheddar bagels are the ultimate answer. Combining crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of creaminess, this recipe is sure to become your go-to morning favorite.

this Recipe

You’ll find that making bacon cheddar bagels at home isn’t as intimidating as it sounds. With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can enjoy bakery-style bagels bursting with cheesy, bacon goodness right from your oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, creamy cheddar cheese blended into the dough for melt-in-your-mouth flavor.
• Generous amounts of crispy bacon add a smoky, salty crunch.
• Soft yet chewy bagel texture that’s perfectly baked golden brown.
• Great for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying snack any time of day.
• Homemade recipe that’s fun and rewarding to make from scratch.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your irresistible bacon cheddar bagels. Quality ingredients make all the difference!

• 3 1/2 cups bread flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 6 strips cooked bacon, chopped
• 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp baking soda (for boiling water bath)
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rising)
• Servings: 8 bagels
• Calories: Approx. 320 per bagel

How to Make Irresistibly Creamy Bacon & Cheddar Bagels: A Flavor Explosion!

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour and kosher salt. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped bacon.
3. Add the yeast mixture, softened cream cheese, and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix and knead for 8-10 minutes until a smooth, elastic dough forms.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 425°F and bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add baking soda to the boiling water.
6. Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center with your finger to form bagels.
7. Boil bagels, 2-3 at a time, for 1 minute on each side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a kitchen towel.
8. Place bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Whisk egg and brush over each bagel for a shiny crust.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use bread flour for the best chewy texture in your bagels.
• Don’t skip the boiling step; it creates the classic bagel crust.
• Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for optimal proofing.
• Feel free to add extra cheddar on top before baking for a cheesy crust.
• Use a thermometer to make sure your water isn’t too hot for yeast activation.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover bacon cheddar bagels in an airtight container or ziplock bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze bagels wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 3 months.

To reheat, slice bagels in half and toast them directly or warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these bagels without yeast?

Yeast is essential for the chewy texture and rise of traditional bagels. Without it, you won’t get the classic bagel consistency, so it’s best not to skip it.

What cheese works best for these bagels?

Sharp cheddar provides great flavor and melts beautifully. You can experiment with other cheeses like smoked gouda or pepper jack for a twist.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon or bacon bits?

Yes, pre-cooked bacon or bacon bits work fine as long as they’re crispy and flavorful. Just make sure they’re drained of excess grease before adding to the dough.

Is it possible to make these bagels ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dough and shape bagels, then freeze them before boiling and baking. When ready, boil and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to bake time.