These creamy cheddar bagels are soft, cheesy, and perfect for breakfast or a snack! Imagine warm, fluffy bagels with a gooey cheddar center that will make your day brighter.
Honestly, I can’t resist these bagels fresh out of the oven. They are so cheesy that they practically smile back at you. Try adding a bit of cream cheese on top for extra yum! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bagels: Plain bagels serve as a great base for this recipe, but you can mix it up by using everything bagels or whole wheat ones for added flavor and texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a bold taste, but if you want something milder, go for mild cheddar or even pepper jack for a nice kick!
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but a similar taste.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using vegan butter instead or omit it entirely for a lighter spread.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Texture for the Cheese Spread?
The key to a smooth and creamy cheddar spread is to ensure your cream cheese and butter are truly softened. If they’re not, it will be hard to mix them well. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Let cream cheese and butter sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing.
- Use a whisk or electric mixer to combine them until they’re smooth and fluffy, which makes spreading easier.
- Add the rest of your spices gradually, adjusting to taste!
By taking the time to ensure your ingredients are at the right consistency, you’ll create a deliciously creamy base for your bagels.
How to Make Creamy Cheddar Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagels:
- 4 plain bagels, split in half
For the Cheesy Spread:
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to bake, for a total of around 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick savory breakfast or a delightful snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your bagels bake evenly and get nicely crispy on top!
2. Mix the Cheesy Spread:
In a medium bowl, take your softened cream cheese and unsalted butter. Mix them well until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You can use a fork, a whisk, or even an electric mixer—whatever you have on hand!
3. Add Flavor:
Next, stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley flakes. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt and pepper! Mix everything until it’s well combined and spreadable.
4. Spread on Bagels:
Grab your split bagels and spread a generous amount of the creamy cheddar mixture on the bottom half. Get nice and creative with it!
5. Prepare to Bake:
Now, take the top halves of the bagels and place them on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over these top halves for that delicious cheesy topping.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the bagels for about 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden brown—just the way you want it!
7. Assemble the Bagels:
Once they are baked, remove them from the oven and gently place the creamy cheddar bottom halves back on top of their cheesy counterparts. Yum!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These creamy cheddar bagels are best enjoyed warm. Serve them as a savory snack or a tasty breakfast item. Get ready for the cheesy goodness!
Can I Use Different Types of Bagels?
Absolutely! While plain bagels are great for this recipe, you can try using everything bagels or whole wheat bagels for added flavor and texture. Get creative with your choices!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Bagels?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven for a few minutes at 375°F to restore their crispiness.
Can I Make the Cheese Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheddar cheese mixture a day in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, spread it on the bagels and bake as directed!
What’s a Good Serving Suggestion?
These creamy cheddar bagels are delicious on their own, but you can serve them alongside a fresh salad or some fruit for a balanced meal. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a savory snack!
