Savory Herb & Cheese Bagel

Name: Savory Herb & Cheese Bagel
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 bagels
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon instant yeast; 1 1/2 cups warm water; 1/4 cup assorted fresh herbs (dill, chives, parsley), chopped; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination); 1 tablespoon baking soda (for boiling); Optional: egg wash for glazing

Highlighted under: Effortless Cooking Creations

I absolutely love making these Savory Herb & Cheese Bagels at home. There's something incredibly satisfying about the aroma that fills the kitchen as they bake. The combination of fresh herbs and gooey cheese creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. I often whip these up as a weekend treat or special breakfast. They’re also perfect for brunch gatherings, and the kids adore them. Plus, making bagels from scratch feels like a fun cooking adventure that’s well worth the effort!

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-01-27T10:26:27.975Z

One day, I decided to experiment a little in the kitchen and ended up creating these delightful bagels. The addition of various herbs, such as dill and chives, elevates the flavors remarkably. Each bite is bursting with freshness, and the melted cheese gives them a rich, indulgent touch.

I discovered that using a steam bath before baking helps achieve that perfect chewy texture characteristic of traditional bagels. This method allows them to puff up nicely and develop a glossy finish that's simply irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic herbs that awaken the senses
Cheesy goodness that makes each bite delightful
Perfectly textured bagels, chewy on the outside and soft inside

Crafting the Perfect Dough

The key to achieving a superbly textured bagel lies in the kneading. After combining your dry ingredients with the yeast mixture, knead the dough for a full ten minutes. This helps develop gluten, which is crucial for that characteristic chewiness. You want the dough to be smooth and elastic without being sticky; if it sticks to your fingers too much, a sprinkle of flour can help adjust the consistency without overdoing it.

When you let the dough rise, ensure it's in a warm environment. A temperature range around 75°F to 85°F is ideal. A common mistake is to rush this step; allowing the dough to double in size will enhance the texture significantly. If your kitchen is cool, consider using the oven set to its lowest temperature for a few minutes, then turn it off and place the bowl inside, creating a perfect environment for rising.

Boiling and Baking Techniques

Boiling bagels before baking is a crucial step that gives them their classic chew. When you add baking soda to the boiling water, it affects the bagel's crust, creating a shiny finish. Be sure to gently lower the bagels into the water to prevent them from collapsing; using a slotted spoon helps with this process. Allow about 1-2 minutes per side for boiling, watching for the bagels to puff slightly as they cook.

When it comes to baking, ensure your oven is preheated to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is vital for achieving the golden brown crust while keeping the interior soft. Position your bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing space between each one for even airflow. If you're using an egg wash, you'll achieve a beautiful glossy finish, so apply it evenly just before baking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious bagels.

For the Bagels

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon instant yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water
1/4 cup assorted fresh herbs (dill, chives, parsley), chopped
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination)
1 tablespoon baking soda (for boiling)
Optional: egg wash for glazing

Combine all these ingredients to create a wonderful dough for your savory bagels!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect bagels.

Prepare the Dough

In a medium bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, chopped herbs, and cheese. Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth.

First Rise

Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Shape the Bagels

After rising, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then poke a hole through the center and stretch to form a bagel shape.

Boil the Bagels

In a large pot, bring water with baking soda to a boil. Carefully drop in bagels, boiling for 1-2 minutes on each side. This creates their characteristic chewiness.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place boiled bagels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Optionally brush with egg wash. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Once baked, allow your bagels to cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, try adding different types of cheese or experimenting with various herbs. Ensure the water is boiling vigorously when you drop the bagels in for the best texture. Serve them warm with cream cheese or your favorite spread for a delicious treat!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Bagels are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days at room temperature. If you want to save some for later, consider freezing them. Just slice them in half before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can toast them directly from the freezer, maintaining that delightful texture without the need to defrost.

For make-ahead plans, you can prepare the dough and shape the bagels a day in advance. After shaping, cover them in the refrigerator overnight. On the baking day, allow them to come to room temperature before boiling and baking, which ensures that they maintain their rise.

Flavor Variations and Additions

While the classic herb and cheese combination is fantastic, feel free to get creative with toppings or flavors! Try incorporating spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder into the dough for added depth. You could also experiment with different cheeses such as feta or goat cheese for a more robust flavor profile.

For a touch of sweetness, consider adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives. These ingredients can bring a Mediterranean twist to your bagels. Topping your bagels with everything seasoning before baking is another fun option, giving an added crunch and burst of flavor in every bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may result in denser bagels. Consider mixing with all-purpose flour for better texture.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store leftover bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them and toast directly from the freezer.

→ Can I make the dough the night before?

Absolutely! Just let it rise in the refrigerator overnight after mixing. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.

→ What can I serve with these bagels?

These bagels are delicious with cream cheese, avocado spread, or even as the base for a breakfast sandwich!