These bagels are a fun twist on the classic, packed with cottage cheese, spicy jalapeños, and sharp cheddar. They’re soft, cheesy, and just a bit exciting!
Making them is a breeze! I love how the cheese melts right in, making each bite delicious. Perfect for breakfast or a snack—just don’t forget the cream cheese for extra yum! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the star ingredient. You can use low-fat or full-fat varieties based on your preference. If you want a smoother texture, blend it before mixing. Greek yogurt can also work as a swap if you’re looking for something creamier.
Self-Rising Flour: Essential for that perfect bagel rise! If you don’t have self-rising flour, make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for the bold flavor it brings. If cheddar isn’t available, feel free to try pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Fresh Jalapeños: The heat level is all about your taste! If you prefer it mild, removing the seeds helps. For a different flavor, consider using roasted red peppers or banana peppers instead.
Garlic & Onion Powder: These are optional but add great flavor. You can replace them with fresh minced garlic and chopped onions if you have them on hand or omit them completely for a simpler taste.
How Do I Knead the Dough Without Overdoing It?
Kneading the dough correctly is key to making soft bagels. Too much kneading can lead to tough bagels. Here’s a simple guide:
- Lightly flour your hands and the surface to prevent sticking.
- Gently fold the dough over itself and push down with your palms. Turn it a quarter turn and repeat.
- Do this for about 1-2 minutes until the dough comes together but seems still a bit sticky—this means you’re done!
Using just enough flour to keep it manageable is crucial, so avoid adding too much flour at this stage. Happy baking!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Jalapeño Cheddar Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 1 ½ cups cottage cheese
- 1 ¾ cups self-rising flour, plus extra for kneading
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1-2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tsp onion powder (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- Olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes from start to enjoying these tasty bagels!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the bagels from sticking and make cleanup a breeze!
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese and eggs. Use a fork or whisk to mix them together until the mixture is nice and smooth. If you want to add some flavor, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and salt at this point!
3. Combine with Flour:
Now it’s time to add the self-rising flour to the wet mixture. Gradually mix it in until a sticky dough forms. Remember, it should be a little sticky, so don’t worry too much if it feels that way!
4. Add Cheese:
Next, fold in about ¾ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. This will make your bagels cheesy and delicious!
5. Knead the Dough:
Lightly flour your hands and a surface to prevent sticking. Knead the dough gently for about 1-2 minutes. You don’t need to overdo it—just knead until everything is combined and the dough feels nice and ready to go!
6. Form the Bagels:
Now it’s time to shape those bagels! Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a round ball, flatten it a bit, and then use your thumb to poke a hole in the center to create the classic bagel shape.
7. Arrange and Top:
Place your shaped bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, and then add the sliced jalapeños by pressing them down gently so they stick well into the dough.
8. Brush and Bake:
Finally, lightly brush the tops of the bagels with olive oil or melted butter for that golden-brown finish. Bake in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden and cooked through.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done baking, take the bagels out of the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Enjoy these warm, cheesy, and spicy bagels for breakfast or as a tasty snack!
Can I Use Regular Flour Instead of Self-Rising Flour?
Yes! If you don’t have self-rising flour on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of regular all-purpose flour with 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt. This will mimic the properties of self-rising flour for your bagels.
How Can I Adjust the Heat Level of the Bagels?
If you want to control the spiciness, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before slicing them. For a milder flavor, you can also reduce the number of jalapeños used or substitute them with milder peppers like bell peppers or roasted red peppers.
Can I Make the Dough in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to a day. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before shaping and baking to ensure even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap each bagel in plastic wrap and seal in a freezer bag. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or warm in the oven!
