Description
These Jalapeño Popper Bagels are a deliciously spicy and cheesy twist on a classic appetizer. Loaded with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, jalapeños, and crispy bacon, then topped with buttery panko breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a flavorful snack, appetizer, or indulgent breakfast treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Bagel Base
- 4 plain bagels, halved
Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
Fillings & Seasonings
- 3 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped and seeded
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, mayonnaise, finely chopped and seeded jalapeños, crumbled cooked bacon, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything until well incorporated and creamy.
- Assemble Bagels: Arrange the halved bagels cut-side up on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread a generous amount of the jalapeño popper cheese mixture evenly over each bagel half, ensuring full coverage.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, stir together the panko breadcrumbs and melted butter until the crumbs are well coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese topped bagels to create a crunchy, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the Jalapeño Popper Bagels warm for the best creamy, spicy, and crunchy flavor experience.
Notes
- For extra heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture.
- You can use turkey bacon or omit the bacon altogether for a vegetarian version of this recipe.
- These bagels make a great party snack, appetizer, or indulgent breakfast option.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing and a smooth filling consistency.
- Use parchment paper or a non-stick baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
