Description
Jalapeño Popper Bagels combine spicy roasted jalapeños with creamy cheeses and crispy bacon for a deliciously bold snack or breakfast treat. Toasted bagels are topped with a savory cream cheese and cheddar blend, then baked to melty perfection, making these bagels a crowd-pleaser with a delightful kick.
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 (or pepper jack for extra spice)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Other Ingredients
- 2 medium jalapeños (roasted or pickled, diced)
- 2 slices bacon (optional, cooked and crumbled)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the bagels.
- Toast bagels: Slice each bagel in half horizontally and toast them lightly for about 5 minutes to create a sturdy base for the toppings.
- Prepare cheese mixture: In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble bagels: Spread an even layer of the cheesy jalapeño mixture over each toasted bagel half.
- Add bacon: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the cheese spread if you are using bacon for extra savoriness.
- Bake bagels: Place the prepared bagels on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve hot. Optionally garnish with chopped chives or cilantro for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier flavor.
- Roast jalapeños beforehand to soften their heat and add depth of flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, omit bacon or use plant-based bacon alternatives.
- Lightly brushing the bagels with olive oil or butter before toasting enhances flavor and texture.
- Serve immediately while the cheese is melty and warm.
