BREAKFAST

Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels: 8 Irresistible Steps to Indulge

by basmer

5 de February de 2026

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Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels are the ultimate indulgent breakfast treat that tantalizes your taste buds with a delightful combination of creamy cheese and crispy bacon. This irresistibly indulgent recipe transforms the traditional bagel into a savory delight, perfect for brunch or a quick snack. The richness of cream cheese blends seamlessly with sharp cheddar and crunchy bacon, creating a breakfast experience that is both comforting and satisfying. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious bagels that are sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels

There’s so much to love about these Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels. First, they’re incredibly delicious, with a perfect balance of flavors that everyone will adore. Second, they’re easy to make at home, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness without any hassle. Third, they’re versatile! Enjoy them at breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. Additionally, the crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the cheese. Lastly, with a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet simple. This recipe is a must-try for anyone who appreciates savory cream cheese bagels or bacon cheddar breakfast bagels.

Ingredients for Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels

Gather these items:

4 cups Bread Flour (High-protein for best results)
2 teaspoons Instant Yeast (For rapid leavening)
2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (For browning and flavor)
1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor)
1.5 cups Warm Whole Milk (Around 110°F (43°C))
1 large Egg (For richness and structure)
2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Adds flavor and tenderness)
8 ounces Cream Cheese (Full-fat for best texture)
8 slices Thick-Cut Bacon (Cooked until crispy)
1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Shred from a block for better texture)
1 tablespoon Fresh Chives (Optional, adds freshness)
10 cups Water (For boiling)
2 tablespoons Honey or Brown Sugar (For sweetening boiling water)
1 large Egg White (For egg wash)
to taste Topping (e.g., Everything Bagel Seasoning) (For flavor)

How to Make Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Tangzhong: In a saucepan, whisk together the bread flour and warm whole milk until thickened. Cook over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, then let cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Mix Dough Ingredients: In a stand mixer, combine the bread flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add cooled Tangzhong, warm milk, egg, unsalted butter, and cream cheese. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead Dough: Switch to a dough hook and knead on medium speed for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should pass the ‘windowpane test’.
Step 4: Add Mix-Ins: Carefully fold in crispy crumbled bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and optional chives until well-distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: First Rise: Shape dough into a ball, place in an oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1-1.5 hours.
Step 6: Shape Bagels: After rising, punch down dough. Divide into 8 portions, roll each into a ball, create a hole in the center, and let rest for 15-20 minutes.
Step 7: Boiling Bath: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large pot, bring water to boil. Boil bagels for 30 seconds on each side, using honey or brown sugar in water for flavor. Drain well.
Step 8: Top and Bake: Brush boiled bagels with egg white and sprinkle toppings. Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding.
Step 9: Cool Completely: Transfer baked bagels to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing or enjoying.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels

Keep these in mind:

Use high-protein bread flour for the best bagel texture.
Make sure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast effectively.
Don’t skip the boiling step; it’s key to achieving that classic bagel chewiness.
For extra flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or onion powder into the dough.
Experiment with toppings; everything bagel seasoning is a fan favorite!

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels

Enjoy your Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels in various ways:

Spread with a layer of Creamy Cheese and Bacon Bagels for an extra-rich breakfast.
Top with fresh avocado slices and a sprinkle of salt for a delicious twist.
Create a bagel sandwich with fried eggs and more crisp bacon for a hearty meal.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels

To store your Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Meal prep has never been easier!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels?

The secret lies in the dough’s texture. Ensure it’s well-kneaded until smooth and elastic, and don’t forget to boil them before baking for that perfect chewy exterior.

Can I make Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just shape and boil them the next day for fresh bagels.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels?

Pay attention to the yeast activation and avoid over-proofing the dough. A well-proofed dough is key to fluffy, delicious bagels.

Variations of Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels You Can Try

Looking for something different? Here are some ideas:

Add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Swap the bacon for smoked salmon for a gourmet twist.
Try using different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for unique flavors.
For a healthier option, consider using whole wheat flour.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Cranberry Orange Pancakes for a delightful breakfast option. If you’re in the mood for something savory, Creamy Potato Soup is a perfect pairing with these bagels.

Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels: 8 Irresistible Steps to Indulge

Author: basmer
Total Time: 132 minutes
Yield: 8 bagels 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Irresistibly Indulgent Creamy Bacon Cheddar Bagels Recipe

Instructions

Prepare the Tangzhong: In a saucepan, whisk together the bread flour and warm whole milk until thickened. Cook over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, then let cool to room temperature.
Mix Dough Ingredients: In a stand mixer, combine the bread flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add cooled Tangzhong, warm milk, egg, unsalted butter, and cream cheese. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead Dough: Switch to a dough hook and knead on medium speed for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should pass the ‘windowpane test’.
Add Mix-Ins: Carefully fold in crispy crumbled bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and optional chives until well-distributed throughout the dough.
First Rise: Shape dough into a ball, place in an oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1-1.5 hours.
Shape Bagels: After rising, punch down dough. Divide into 8 portions, roll each into a ball, create a hole in the center, and let rest for 15-20 minutes.
Boiling Bath: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large pot, bring water to boil. Boil bagels for 30 seconds on each side, using honey or brown sugar in water for flavor. Drain well.
Top and Bake: Brush boiled bagels with egg white and sprinkle toppings. Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding.
Cool Completely: Transfer baked bagels to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing or enjoying.