Description
Jalapeño Popper Bagels offer a spicy, cheesy twist on a classic favorite, combining creamy cheese, roasted jalapeños, and optional crispy bacon on toasted bagels. Perfectly baked to melty perfection, these bagels are ideal for a flavorful breakfast or snack that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Bagels
- 4 bagels (Choose your favorite flavor or gluten-free)
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese (full-fat or vegan)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (can substitute with pepper jack for extra spice)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 medium jalapeños (roasted or pickled, diced)
Toppings
- 2 slices bacon (optional, cooked and crumbled)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the bagels evenly.
- Prepare Bagels: Slice the bagels in half horizontally. Lightly toast them for about 5 minutes to give them a slight crisp base.
- Make Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Bagels: Spread the prepared cheese mixture evenly over each toasted bagel half.
- Add Bacon: Sprinkle crumbled crispy bacon over the cheese layer if using, adding an extra layer of savory flavor.
- Bake Bagels: Place the assembled bagels on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese mixture is bubbly and starting to brown slightly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot. Optionally garnish with chopped chives or cilantro for a fresh finish.
Notes
- You can substitute pepper jack cheese for cheddar to add more heat.
- For a vegetarian version, omit bacon or use a plant-based alternative.
- Using pickled jalapeños will add a tangier flavor compared to roasted ones.
- Brush bagels with butter instead of olive oil for a richer taste.
- Ensure bagels are toasted before adding the cheese mixture to prevent sogginess.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in an oven or toaster oven for best texture.
