The Best Cheddar Bagel Recipe Ever: A Step-by-step Guide To The Perfect Bagel

Indulge in the irresistible aroma and savory flavor of homemade cheddar bagels with our comprehensive cheddar bagel recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary adventure, this step-by-step guide will empower you to create golden-brown bagels loaded with the rich, tangy taste of cheddar cheese.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

• 3 cups (360g) bread flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 cup (240ml) lukewarm water (110-115°F)

For the Cheddar Cheese Filling:

• 1 cup (120g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the bread flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water while stirring until a dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Forming the Bagels:

1. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces.
2. Roll each piece into a 12-inch rope.
3. Form a circle with the rope and overlap the ends slightly.
4. Pinch the ends together to seal.

Adding the Cheddar Cheese Filling:

1. Place the shredded cheddar cheese in a small bowl.
2. Cut a small slit in the top of each bagel and fill it with the cheese.

Proofing and Baking:

1. Place the bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
3. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash.
5. Brush the bagels with the egg wash.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crusty.

Tips for Perfection

• Use high-quality bread flour for optimal gluten development.
• Ensure the water is lukewarm to activate the yeast effectively.
• Knead the dough until it passes the “windowpane test” (when you stretch it, you can see a thin membrane form).
• Don’t overproof the bagels, as it can result in dense bread.
• Adjust the amount of cheddar cheese filling to your preference.

The Joy of Homemade Cheddar Bagels

Savor the warm, pillowy texture of these cheddar bagels as you bite into their crispy crust. The tangy cheddar cheese adds a burst of flavor that complements the savory dough perfectly. Enjoy them plain, toasted with butter, or topped with your favorite spreads and fillings.

Variations and Experiments

• Garlic Cheddar Bagels: Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the dough when kneading.
• Everything Cheddar Bagels: Sprinkle a mixture of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and onion flakes on top of the bagels before baking.
• Jalapeño Cheddar Bagels: Incorporate diced jalapeños into the cheddar cheese filling for a spicy kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes, you can use 1 1/4 teaspoons of instant yeast.

Q: How do I store leftover bagels?
A: Store bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze cheddar bagels?
A: Yes, you can freeze bagels for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap before freezing.

Q: What is the best way to reheat cheddar bagels?
A: Reheat bagels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.