Savory Herb & Cheese Bagel

Name: Savory Herb & Cheese Bagel
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 bagels
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 1/4 cups warm water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 2 tablespoons mixed dried herbs (e.g., dill, chives, oregano)

Highlighted under: Quick Fix Eats

I love starting my mornings with a warm, homemade bagel, especially when it's packed with savory herbs and melty cheese. The aroma that fills my kitchen as they bake is simply irresistible! I’ve experimented with various herbs, and I find that a blend of dill, chives, and a touch of garlic creates the perfect balance. These bagels are not only delicious but also so satisfying to make from scratch. You can enjoy them plain or topped with cream cheese or smoked salmon for an extra treat.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-27T09:17:27.374Z

Making these Savory Herb & Cheese Bagels from scratch has truly transformed my mornings. I played around with the dough's consistency by adjusting the water and flour ratios, and I found that a slightly stickier dough leads to a softer bagel. This time, I added shredded cheddar and a sprinkle of Italian herbs right into the dough, which elevated the flavor profile significantly.

One key tip I've learned is to boil the bagels before baking. This step is essential because it creates that beautifully chewy texture on the outside while keeping the inside perfectly soft. Trust me; it’s worth the extra effort!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The delightful combination of fresh herbs and creamy cheese
Perfectly chewy texture that you'll crave
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings or spreads

Crafting the Perfect Bagel

Achieving the ideal bagel texture requires attention to the dough's hydration level. When mixing the dough, aim for a slightly sticky consistency that can be just barely handled. If the dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of warm water at a time until it reaches the desired texture. This helps create a chewy interior that contrasts beautifully with the crisp crust that develops during baking.

Once shaped, the bagels must be boiled before baking. This step is essential as it forms a chewy crust and enhances the bagel's characteristic density. As you boil, keep an eye on the time—about 1-2 minutes each side is perfect. The bagels should become slightly puffed and shiny as they cook, which indicates they've been properly cooked before hitting the oven.

Enhancing Flavor and Texture

The choice of herbs can elevate your bagels from ordinary to extraordinary. Fresh herbs can be used if you prefer, but keep in mind that their flavor is more potent. You'll want to use roughly three times more fresh herbs compared to dried ones. For a unique twist, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost that complements the other ingredients wonderfully.

You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or pepper jack, to diversify the flavor profile. Feel free to mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean touch. When adding extra ingredients, ensure not to exceed one cup in total, so the bagel structure remains intact.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create delicious bagels:

Bagel Dough Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/4 cups warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
2 tablespoons mixed dried herbs (e.g., dill, chives, oregano)

Feel free to get creative with your bagel toppings!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your bagels:

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Pour in warm water and olive oil, then mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic. Add in the shredded cheese and herbs, kneading until well incorporated.

First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 20 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Shape and Boil

Once risen, divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then poke a hole in the middle to shape it into a bagel. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, and boil each bagel for about 1-2 minutes on each side before transferring to a baking sheet.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the boiled bagels for about 15 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before enjoying!

These bagels are best enjoyed fresh!

Pro Tips

Experiment by adding different cheeses or herbs to personalize your bagels further. You can also sprinkle some seeds on top before baking for extra flavor and texture.

Storing and Serving

Once baked, allow your bagels to cool completely on a wire rack to preserve their texture. For storage, place them in a sealed bag at room temperature for up to two days or freeze them for longer freshness. If freezing, slice the bagels before freezing to make it easier for quick toasting. When ready to enjoy, simply pop them in the toaster or oven until warmed through—around 5-7 minutes at 350°F should do.

These savory bagels are versatile when it comes to serving. Enjoy them plain, or spread with cream cheese for a traditional breakfast treat. Pair with smoked salmon and capers for a delightful brunch option. I often love to add sliced cucumbers and fresh dill on top for a refreshing crunch that complements the bagels beautifully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bagels come out too dense, it may be due to insufficient kneading or rest time. Ensure you knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic and allow it to rise until it has doubled in size. If you're short on time, don’t skip the boiling step, as this is crucial for a bagel's unique texture and flavor.

Overbaking can result in a hard bagel, so be vigilant as they near the end of their baking time. They should be golden brown but not dark brown or too firm to the touch. If you find your bagels are browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F and extend the baking time slightly to ensure they cook through without burning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping.

→ What can I substitute for the cheese?

You can use any cheese you prefer, like feta, cream cheese, or even a dairy-free alternative if needed.

→ How do I store leftover bagels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add toppings before baking?

Absolutely! Feel free to add seeds, cheese, or herbs on top of the bagels before baking for added flavor and texture.