The Jalapeno Cheddar Bagel from Einstein Bros. Bagels features a chewy, golden-baked bagel infused with spicy jalapeno peppers and melted sharp cheddar cheese, offering a savory and zesty flavor with a warm, crispy crust.
Equipments
- Stand mixer with dough hook
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Dough scraper
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Slotted spoon
- Large pot (for boiling bagels)
- Cooling rack
- Oven
- Sharp knife or lame (for scoring, if needed)
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- ½ cup pickled jalapeno slices, chopped
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon barley malt syrup (or honey)
Using fresh, high-quality bread flour contributes significantly to the bagel's chewy texture, while warm water activates the yeast properly for optimal dough rising. Chopped pickled jalapeno slices provide a balanced spicy kick without overpowering the sharp cheddar cheese, which should be freshly shredded for better melting and flavor distribution. The addition of barley malt syrup or honey enhances the crust's golden color and creates a subtly sweet contrast to the savory ingredients. Make sure to boil the bagels in hot water before baking to achieve the signature chewy crust. Your Jalapeno Cheddar Bagel from Einstein Bros. Bagels copycat menu will have an authentic, zesty flavor and a perfect crispy exterior when these ingredient tips are followed.
Instructions
- Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in the stand mixer bowl; let stand until foamy.
- Add bread flour, salt, and vegetable oil to the yeast mixture.
- Mix with the dough hook on low speed until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead on medium speed for 8–10 minutes until dough is smooth and elastic.
- Add chopped jalapenos; knead until evenly incorporated.
- Shape dough into a ball, place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled (about 1 hour).
- Punch down dough and divide into 8 equal pieces.
- Shape each piece into a ball, poke a hole in the center, and stretch to form a bagel shape.
- Place shaped bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 20–30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil; stir in barley malt syrup (or honey).
- Boil bagels, 2–3 at a time, 1 minute per side using a slotted spoon.
- Return boiled bagels to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Top each bagel generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bagels are golden and cheese is bubbly/crispy.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Substitution
The Jalapeno Cheddar Bagel from Einstein Bros. Bagels copycat recipe allows you to enjoy a similar spicy and cheesy treat at home. If fresh jalapenos are unavailable, substitute with pickled jalapenos or a small amount of jalapeno powder to maintain heat and flavor. Sharp cheddar cheese can be replaced with a milder cheddar or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a creamier texture. Barley malt syrup is ideal for authentic bagel flavor, but honey or light brown sugar works well as a substitute to enhance browning during boiling and baking. Your dough consistency may vary depending on humidity, so adjust water slightly to achieve a smooth, elastic dough.
Tips
Your bagel dough must feel smooth and elastic after kneading for the best texture; under-kneading can lead to dense bagels. When boiling, avoid overcrowding the pot--boil 2-3 bagels at a time for even cooking and optimal crust development. Using barley malt syrup or honey in the boiling water enhances bagel browning and adds subtle sweetness. Make sure to cool bagels on a wire rack, preventing sogginess by allowing air circulation around them.
Nutritions
The Jalapeno Cheddar Bagel from Einstein Bros. Bagels provides a balanced mix of macronutrients with carbohydrates from the bread flour and protein from sharp cheddar cheese. Jalapeno peppers add minimal calories but contribute vitamins like vitamin C and antioxidants. Each bagel contains roughly 300-350 calories, with fat content primarily from cheese and vegetable oil. To optimize your intake, pair this bagel with a source of fiber or lean protein to create a more complete meal.
Storage
Store your Jalapeno Cheddar Bagels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their chewiness and fresh flavor. For longer storage, wrap each bagel tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen bagels at room temperature, then warm in the oven to restore their crispy crust and melted cheese texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap jalapeno peppers for pickled banana peppers or roasted poblano peppers to adjust the heat level. Using smoked gouda or pepper jack instead of sharp cheddar will introduce a different depth of flavor. For a crispier crust, try brushing the bagels with an egg wash before baking. Incorporating garlic powder or onion flakes into the dough enhances the savory profile without overpowering the main ingredients.
Allergies
The Jalapeno Cheddar Bagel contains wheat and gluten from bread flour, which may trigger allergies or sensitivities in individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Sharp cheddar cheese includes dairy, posing a risk for those allergic to milk proteins or with lactose intolerance. Your consumption should be cautious if you have allergies to yeast, jalapenos, or barley malt syrup, as these ingredients could also cause reactions.
Why this recipe?
The Jalapeno Cheddar Bagel from Einstein Bros. Bagels combines the perfect blend of spicy jalapenos and sharp cheddar cheese, delivering a bold and satisfying flavor profile that excites the taste buds. Its chewy texture, paired with the savory kick, makes it a popular choice for those who enjoy a flavorful twist on a classic bagel. You can recreate this unique combination at home with fresh ingredients, allowing for customization and freshness that matches your preferences. Making a copycat version is worth it for those who seek a delicious, budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing the signature taste of this beloved menu item.