These Cottage Cheese Jalapeño Cheddar Bagels are a fun twist on a breakfast favorite! Soft, cheesy, and slightly spicy, they are perfect for a tasty start to your day.
Who knew bagels could be so cheesy? I love slathering mine with cream cheese—it’s a match made in brunch heaven! Plus, they’re super easy to make, even if you’re not a morning person.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Low-fat cottage cheese adds moisture and protein. You can swap it for Greek yogurt for a similar texture, or ricotta for a creamier bagel. If you prefer non-dairy, try a plant-based yogurt.
Self-Rising Flour: This flour helps the bagels rise without needing yeast. If you don’t have it on hand, you can make your own by mixing all-purpose flour with 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon salt for every cup of flour.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños give a nice kick! For less heat, be sure to remove the seeds. If you’re not a fan of spicy, consider using roasted red peppers or sweet bell peppers instead.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The sharp flavor of cheddar really shines in these bagels. If you’re looking for something milder, try medium cheddar or Monterey Jack. Vegan cheese can also work if you want a dairy-free option.
Garlic Powder: This adds a subtle flavor boost. If you prefer fresh garlic, you can use one small clove minced, but be careful with the amount as fresh garlic can be potent!
How Do I Make Sure My Bagels Are Perfectly Shaped?
Shaping bagels can be tricky, but it’s essential for that classic look and texture. Here’s how to get it right:
- After kneading, divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy if you’d like!
- Gently roll each piece into a ball. Don’t overwork the dough; it should still be soft.
- Poke a hole using your fingers in the center of each ball. Stretch the hole carefully to about 2 inches wide. The dough will spring back a little.
- Try to keep the bagel shapes even. This will help them bake uniformly and achieve that delicious crispy outside and chewy inside.
With these tips, you should have beautiful bagels that not only look great but taste amazing too!
Delicious Cottage Cheese Jalapeño Cheddar Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Bagel Components:
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 3/4 cups self-rising flour (plus extra for kneading)
- 1 to 2 jalapeños, sliced (seeds removed for less heat if desired)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (optional, for brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 18-22 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll be enjoying your fresh bagels in around 30-35 minutes. Quick and delightful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will help your bagels come off easily once they’re baked.
2. Mix the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the low-fat cottage cheese, self-rising flour, garlic powder (if using), and salt. Stir the mixture until a sticky dough begins to form. Don’t be shy to use your hands here to help bring the dough together!
3. Add Cheese and Jalapeños:
Now, fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and most of the sliced jalapeños. Be sure to save a few jalapeño slices for topping the bagels later. This will add a nice kick!
4. Knead the Dough:
Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough onto it. Knead the dough gently for about 1 minute until it’s mostly smooth. It’s okay if it’s still a bit sticky; just make sure not to over-knead it.
5. Shape the Bagels:
Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then use your fingers to poke a hole through the center to make a bagel shape. Stretch the hole to about 2 inches in diameter to get that classic bagel look.
6. Place on Baking Sheet:
Place your formed bagels on the prepared baking sheet. Top each bagel with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and the reserved jalapeño slices. Press them lightly into the dough so they stick.
7. Optional Brushing:
If you like, you can brush each bagel lightly with olive oil or melted butter. This will give them a lovely golden finish when they bake. It’s not necessary, but it makes a delicious difference!
8. Bake Your Bagels:
Now, pop the bagels in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done, take the bagels out of the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Serve them warm or at room temperature and enjoy these delightful cottage cheese jalapeño cheddar bagels!
Can I Use Regular Flour Instead of Self-Rising Flour?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have self-rising flour, simply use all-purpose flour and add 1 3/4 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt for every cup of flour used.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag. Just toast or warm them up when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Make These Bagels Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, shape the bagels, and then refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let them sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes before baking if they’ve been chilled.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer milder bagels, reduce the number of jalapeños or remove the seeds and membranes for less heat. Alternatively, you could use mild green peppers or skip the peppers altogether for a cheesy bagel variation!
